Guide to Residency in Pakistan

Obtaining a residency visa in Pakistan is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Pakistan gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the types of residency status
  • Pakistan offers different types of visas for foreigners, including work visas, business visas, student visas, family visit visas, and permanent residence visas.
  • Each type of visa has its own requirements and application process.
• Check your eligibility
  • Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific type of visa you want to apply for.
  • The criteria can be found on the official website of the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports: http://www.dgip.gov.pk/
• Prepare the required documents
  • The documents required vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
  • Generally, you will need a valid passport, passport-size photographs, a visa application form, and supporting documents related to your purpose of stay.
  • For a work visa, you may need an employment contract, a letter of invitation from your employer, and company registration documents.
  • For a business visa, you may need proof of business activities, an invitation letter from a Pakistani company, and a recommendation letter from the Chamber of Commerce in your home country.
  • For a student visa, you may need an admission letter from a Pakistani educational institution, proof of financial support, and educational certificates.
• Apply for a visa
  • Visit the official website of the Pakistani mission in your home country to download the visa application form.
  • Fill out the application form accurately and completely.
  • Submit the application form along with the required documents to the Pakistani embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • Pay the visa application fee.
• Apply for a National Tax Number (NTN)
  • If you plan to work or do business in Pakistan, you will need to obtain an NTN from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
  • Visit the official website of the FBR to download the NTN application form: https://fbr.gov.pk/
  • Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents to the nearest Regional Tax Office (RTO).
  • You will need to provide a copy of your passport, a copy of your visa, and proof of address in Pakistan.
• Register with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA)
  • If you plan to stay in Pakistan for more than six months, you will need to register with NADRA and obtain a Pakistan Origin Card (POC) or a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP).
  • Visit the official website of NADRA to download the application form: https://www.nadra.gov.pk/
  • Fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents to the nearest NADRA office.
  • You will need to provide a copy of your passport, a copy of your visa, and proof of address in Pakistan.
• Undergo a medical examination
  • Depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may need to undergo a medical examination.
  • The medical examination can be done at a government-approved hospital in Pakistan.
  • You will need to submit the medical report with your visa application.
• Wait for the decision on your application
  • The processing time for visa applications varies depending on the type of visa and the specific circumstances of your case.
  • You can check the status of your application on the official website of the Pakistani mission where you submitted your application.
• Register with the police
  • After arriving in Pakistan, you will need to register with the local police within 24 hours.
  • You will need to provide a copy of your passport, a copy of your visa, and proof of address in Pakistan.

Renewal and Extension of Visa

If you want to extend or renew your visa, you will need to submit an application to the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports before your current visa expires. You can find more information on the visa renewal and extension process on the official website of the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports.

Permanent Residence

If you want to apply for permanent residence in Pakistan, you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having a valid visa for at least five years and demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the Urdu language and Pakistani culture. You can find more information on the permanent residence application process on the official website of the Directorate General of Immigration & Passports.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Pakistan?

"In order to visit Pakistan, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and paying the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Pakistan, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and providing proof of financial means. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required," commented one member living in Pakistan.