Pakistan Travel Document & Visa Requirements from the UK (2026)
27 August 2026
Whether you're a British-Pakistani visiting family or a UK national travelling to Pakistan for the first time, the paperwork depends heavily on your citizenship status. Here's what we walk customers through most often when booking flights to Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.
British nationals without Pakistani origin
If you hold only a British passport with no Pakistani heritage, you'll generally need to apply for a Pakistani visa in advance β Pakistan operates an e-Visa system for UK nationals for most visit purposes, applied for online before travel.
Processing times vary, so we'd recommend applying at least a few weeks before your planned departure date, and definitely before booking non-refundable flights.
British-Pakistani dual nationals
Many of our customers are dual British-Pakistani nationals, or hold a NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) or POC (Pakistan Origin Card). These generally let you enter Pakistan without a separate visa, but the exact document you need depends on whether you still hold Pakistani citizenship or have renounced it.
If you're not sure which category you fall into, or your NICOP/POC has expired, it's worth checking directly with the Pakistani High Commission in London or your nearest consulate before travel β rules on renewals and validity do change, and we're not a substitute for that official check.
Passport validity and other essentials
As a general rule, keep at least six months' validity on your passport from your date of travel β this is standard practice for most international travel, not specific to Pakistan, but it's the most common reason we see people scramble last-minute.
If you're travelling with children, especially where only one parent is travelling with them, it's worth carrying evidence of parental consent or relationship documents β border officials can ask for this, particularly for minors travelling without both parents.
When to start the process
For visa applications, 4β6 weeks before travel is a comfortable buffer in normal circumstances; during Eid and the summer holiday season, when Pakistan-bound routes get busiest, start earlier if you can.
If your situation is anything other than straightforward β a lapsed NICOP, a name change, a first-time visit as a British-born child of Pakistani parents β call us before you book. It's a five-minute conversation that avoids a much more stressful one at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do British-Pakistanis need a visa to visit Pakistan?οΌ
Not usually, if you hold a valid NICOP or POC card confirming your Pakistani origin β but the exact requirement depends on your current citizenship status. Check with the Pakistani High Commission if you're unsure which document applies to you.
Can I apply for a Pakistan e-Visa online?οΌ
Yes, Pakistan operates an online e-Visa system for most UK visitors travelling for tourism or family visits. Apply well ahead of your travel dates rather than at the last minute.
How long does a Pakistan visa take to process?οΌ
Processing times vary and aren't something we control, so we'd suggest applying at least 4β6 weeks before travel to give yourself a safe margin, longer during busy periods like Eid.
Do children need their own travel documents for Pakistan?οΌ
Yes β children need their own passport (and visa or NICOP/POC as applicable). If only one parent is travelling with a child, carrying proof of the relationship or the other parent's consent can help at immigration.
Can Ontime Travel help with my Pakistan visa application?οΌ
We can point you in the right direction and flag what's typically needed based on your situation, but visa applications are handled by you directly with the relevant authority β call our Bolton office and we'll talk through your specific case.
Have a question about your own trip?
Our Bolton team can talk you through your specific situation β call, WhatsApp, or request a free quote online.