Newcomer Guide

Topic 1 of 14

Before you land

Visa, cash, downloads — the pre-flight checklist

Pakistan runs an online e-visa system for most nationalities. Apply only through the official government portal (visa.nadra.gov.pk) — third-party 'visa agent' sites charge extra for nothing and sometimes worse.

  1. 1Apply for the e-visa well before flying; print a copy and keep a PDF offline.
  2. 2Buy travel insurance that covers Pakistan — check the fine print, some policies exclude it.
  3. 3Bring some cash in USD, EUR or GBP for the first day — crisp, newer notes exchange best.
  4. 4Download offline maps of Islamabad (Google Maps offline area) before you fly.
  5. 5Install a ride app (Careem is the most visitor-friendly) and SafePak, obviously.
  6. 6Note your embassy's address and emergency line — SafePak's Emergency page pins it for you.
If your itinerary includes certain northern or border areas, you may need an NOC (No Objection Certificate) — see the Laws & permits topic before you plan.
Screenshot your hotel's name and address in English AND ask the hotel for it written in Urdu — gold for taxi drivers.
Next upArrival & the airport