Pakistan is a country rich in diverse culture and landscapes. It offers a blend of historic sites and beautiful nature, with traditional foods providing a unique experience for visitors.
CapitalIslamabad
Population225,199,937
Official language(s)Urdu, English
CurrencyPakistani Rupee
Time zoneUTC+5
It's important to check for the latest safety information before traveling, and to respect local customs.
Pakistan’s short-stay tourist rules vary by nationality, so check the latest visa requirement for your passport before departure; some travelers may need a visa or eVisa, while others may have different arrangements. Electronic travel authorizations such as ESTA, K-ETA, UK ETA, eTA, or ETA are for those countries’ own entry systems and are not used for Pakistan; Pakistan follows its own visa and arrival procedures. A separate paper landing card is not usually required in the same way as in some countries, but any dutiable or restricted items must be declared to customs, and cash declaration rules can vary by airport, so verify the current guidance before you travel.
Check passport and visa
Before immigration, make sure your passport is valid and your visa status is correct, and that your tourist purpose and stay length are within the permitted limit.
Pass immigration control
The officer will check your passport and visa and may ask a few brief questions about your travel purpose or stay plan. If needed, biometric data such as a photo or fingerprints may also be taken.
Declare at customs
Declare any cash, high-value items, and restricted or prohibited goods at customs. Meat, fruit, plants, tobacco, and alcohol may be restricted, so check the rules before packing them in your luggage.
Check after entry
At the arrival airport, confirm baggage claim and your onward transfer route before anything else. If there is any issue, ask the airport information desk or the relevant counter right away.
Check items before departure
Review cigarettes, alcohol, valuables, expensive electronics, and cash that may cause issues when leaving. If you have restricted export items, handle them with customs at the airport first.
Exit immigration and security
At departure control, your passport and boarding pass will be checked, followed by the usual airport security screening. A separate departure tax is often included in the airfare, but the fare breakdown on your ticket is the safest place to confirm.
Check tax refund rules in advance
Pakistan is not widely known for a standard tourist VAT refund scheme, so it is best to confirm export paperwork or refund eligibility with the store before you buy. Whether anything can be processed at the airport depends on the shop, the item, and the required documents.