Can Indians visit Pakistan in 2025?
Pakistan and India share deep historical, cultural, and familial ties, yet travel between the two countries has long been subject to strict visa regulations. If you’re an Indian citizen wondering whether you can visit Pakistan, the answer depends on your passport status and the purpose of your travel.
In this guide, we’ll break down who can visit Pakistan, the visa process, and alternative options for Indian-origin travelers who hold foreign passports.
Table of Contents
Can Indian Citizens Visit Pakistan?
Indian passport holders cannot visit Pakistan as tourists. They can only visit Pakistan for specific purposes (such as family visits, business, or religious pilgrimages) but not for tourism.
However, Indians with a foreign passport (such as a U.S., U.K., Canadian and other passport) can apply for a Pakistan visa and visit the country.
Indian passport holders:
Can Indians with a U.S. or Other Foreign Passport Visit Pakistan?
Yes! If you are of Indian origin but hold a non-Indian passport (such as U.S., U.K., or Canadian), you can apply for a Pakistani tourist visa. You can reach out to us at info@gopleiades.com or fill this form and we will help you.
How to Apply for a Pakistan Visa as an Indian-Origin Foreign Passport Holder
Visit the Pakistan Online Visa System:
Apply through visa.nadra.gov.pk.
Create an Account & Fill Out the Form:
Provide personal details, travel plans, and passport information.
Upload Required Documents:
- Valid foreign passport (e.g., U.S. or U.K. passport).
- Recent passport-sized photo.
- Proof of travel plans (e.g., flight & hotel bookings).
- Pay the Visa Fee Online and Submit the Application.
Receive an eVisa Approval (5-7 working days) via email.
What If You Have an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card?
If you hold a foreign passport with an OCI card, your travel eligibility depends on your passport country, not the OCI card.
Example: If you have a U.S. passport + OCI card, you are eligible for a Pakistani tourist visa.
Travel Between India & Pakistan – Important Considerations
1. Border Crossings
The Wagah Border crossing (near Amritsar) is only for travelers with special visas (business, pilgrimage, or family visas).
2. Security & Travel Advisory
Indian travelers in Pakistan are required to report their location to local police stations in some cities.
Avoid discussing sensitive political issues while traveling.
3. Travel Duration & Visa Extensions
Tourist visas are usually valid for 30-90 days.
Extensions are possible but require approval from Pakistani authorities.
We can help if you reach out at info@gopleiades.com or fill this form.
How Can Indian Passport Holders Travel to Pakistan?
While tourist visas are not available for Indian passport holders, there are a few exceptions that allow travel to Pakistan:
1. Family Visit Visa
Who can apply?
Indians with immediate family members (spouses, parents, children, or siblings) in Pakistan.
Requirements:
Proof of relationship (such as birth or marriage certificates).
Invitation letter from a family member in Pakistan.
Clearance from the Ministry of Interior (Pakistan).
Processing Time: Typically 4-6 weeks, but can take longer due to additional security checks.
2. Business Visa
Who can apply? Indian nationals conducting business or trade with registered Pakistani companies.
Requirements:
Invitation from a Pakistani business entity registered with the Chamber of Commerce.
Business profile, registration documents, and proof of previous transactions.
Validity: Typically issued for 3-6 months with single or multiple-entry options.
3. Religious Pilgrimage (Yatra Visa)
Who can apply?
Indian passport holders traveling for religious purposes, such as:
Visiting Gurdwaras in Pakistan (e.g., Kartarpur Sahib, Nankana Sahib).
Attending Sufi shrine pilgrimages (Urs festivals).
Special Process:
Organized through government-approved pilgrimage groups.
Requires approval from both Indian and Pakistani authorities.
The Takeaway
If you have an Indian-origin and hold a foreign passport (such as U.S., U.K., Canadian or any other), you can visit Pakistan as a tourist with a standard visa application.
For Indian passport holders, visiting Pakistan requires a special visa for family, business, or religious reasons, but tourist visas are not available.
Whether you’re visiting family, exploring historical sites, or attending religious pilgrimages, understanding Pakistan’s visa rules and travel options will ensure a smooth and successful trip.
Are you planning a visit to Pakistan? Browse our curated trips to experience the best of this captivating country. For more travel insights, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help you plan your next adventure!
You can also customize your adventure by filling this form.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can Indian passport holders visit Pakistan for tourism?
No, Pakistan does not issue tourist visas to Indian passport holders. However, Indians can visit Pakistan for family visits, business, or religious pilgrimages if they obtain the appropriate visa.
Q2: Can Indians visit Pakistan if they have a foreign passport?
Yes! If you are of Indian origin but hold a non-Indian passport (such as U.S., U.K., Canadian, or Australian), you can apply for a Pakistani tourist visa through the Pakistan Online Visa System.
Q3: How can an Indian citizen get a visa for Pakistan?
Indian passport holders can apply for a Family Visit Visa, Business Visa, or Religious Pilgrimage Visa. To apply, they must:
Submit proof of relationship (for family visas).
Get an invitation from a registered Pakistani company (for business visas).
Apply through an authorized pilgrimage group (for religious visas).
The visa process usually takes 4-6 weeks due to security clearances.
Q4: Can Indians enter Pakistan via the Wagah Border?
Yes, but only if they have a valid visa for business, family visits, or religious pilgrimage. The Wagah Border is not open for tourism travel.
Q5: Can Indians with a U.S. or U.K. passport travel to Pakistan?
Yes! Indians who hold a U.S., U.K., Canadian, or any foreign passport can apply for a tourist visa to Pakistan through the Pakistan Online Visa System.
Q6: What documents are required for an Indian-origin foreign passport holder to visit Pakistan?
If you hold a non-Indian passport and want to visit Pakistan, you will need:
A valid foreign passport.
A recent passport-sized photograph.
Proof of travel plans (flight & hotel bookings).
Payment of visa fees through the online portal.
The visa is typically processed within 5-7 working days.
Q7: Can Indian tourists visit Pakistan if they are married to a Pakistani citizen?
Yes, if an Indian is married to a Pakistani citizen, they can apply for a Spouse Visa or Family Visit Visa. However, clearance from the Pakistani authorities is required, and the process can take longer than usual.
Q8: How long can an Indian stay in Pakistan on a visa?
The length of stay depends on the visa type:
Family Visit Visa: Typically 30-90 days, extendable upon approval.
Business Visa: 3-6 months, with multiple-entry options.
Religious Visa: Issued for the duration of the pilgrimage (as coordinated between Indian and Pakistani authorities).
Tourist Visa (for non-Indian passport holders): Usually 30-90 days.
Q9: Can an Indian citizen apply for a Pakistan visa online?
No, Indian passport holders must apply through the Pakistani High Commission in India. However, Indian-origin foreign passport holders can apply online via Pakistan’s Online Visa System.
Q10: How long does it take to get a Pakistan visa for an Indian citizen?
Family Visit & Business Visas: 4-6 weeks (longer due to security checks).
Religious Pilgrimage Visa: Issued through government-approved groups.
Tourist Visa (for foreign passport holders): 5-7 working days (via online application).
