Pakistan Suspends Visa Prior to Arrival for International Tourists from 1 January 2026

International travelers planning a visit to Pakistan should be aware of an important visa policy update effective 1 January 2026. Under a newly implemented government framework, Pakistan has suspended its Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) facility. This Visa category was announced in August 2024 and tourists were able to get visa without any other supporting documents. now as per the latest information its abolished.

Although detailed public notifications are still limited, the change has been internally confirmed and is now being implemented in practice. Travelers are advised to follow the revised procedure to avoid travel disruptions.

What This Means for International Tourists

The suspension of the Visa Prior to Arrival does not mean Pakistan is closed to tourists. Instead, it represents a shift toward a fully pre-approved visa process and you would need a Letter of Invitation.

All international tourists must now:

• Apply for a regular Tourist e-Visa using the official visa portal mentioned below

• Complete the application 2-3 weeks before traveling

• Hold a visa before arriving at the airport.

Airlines may deny boarding to passengers who do not hold a valid e-Visa.

Current Visa Application Process for Tourists

Under the new policy, international tourists are required to:

1. Apply through the official Pakistan e-Visa system

2. Select the Tourist Visa category

3. Pay the applicable visa fee (fees vary by nationality and duration)

4. Submit a Letter of Invitation (LOI) as part of the application

Letter of Invitation Requirement

A Letter of Invitation (LOI) is now a mandatory document for most tourist e-Visa applications. The LOI must be issued by:

• A licensed and approved Pakistan tour operator or host organization

Applications submitted without a valid LOI may experience delays or rejection.

Why Has the Policy Changed?

The new visa framework reflects Pakistan’s move toward:

• Enhanced pre-arrival screening

• Centralized digital visa processing

• Improved immigration compliance and security

This change aligns Pakistan’s visa system with international best practices while maintaining openness to tourism.

Important Advice for Travelers

International tourists are strongly advised to:

• Ignore outdated online information referencing Visa Prior to Arrival

• Apply for their visa well in advance of travel

• Ensure all documents are complete and accurate

• Contact Approved Tour operators to secure an LOI

Is Pakistan Still Tourist-Friendly?

Yes. Pakistan continues to welcome international visitors for tourism, culture, adventure, and exploration. The policy update affects process, not access. Travelers who follow the revised e-Visa procedure should experience a smooth entry process.

For the most reliable experience, travelers are encouraged to consult registered tour operators or authorized visa facilitators when planning their visit. Contact us on +92 332 9072922 (WhatsApp) for any assistance or support for your visa.

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