USA entry requirements for travellers from Pakistan
Visa requirement summary
Pakistani passport holders need a US visa to visit the United States. Pakistan is not a member of the Visa Waiver Program, so Pakistani nationals must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa before travelling. There is no ESTA option for Pakistani passport holders.
The B-1/B-2 covers tourism, visiting family, and short business trips. The application requires a DS-160 online form, a $185 non-refundable fee, and a mandatory in-person interview at the US Embassy in Islamabad or the US Consulate in Karachi or Lahore.
Interview wait times at US missions in Pakistan vary. Apply well in advance — potentially several months before your intended travel date.
Applying for the B-1/B-2 visa
The B-1/B-2 is a combined business/tourism visitor visa. Applications are made online and in person:
1. Complete the DS-160 form at ceac.state.gov.
2. Pay the MRV fee of $185 through the local US Embassy’s payment system before booking your interview appointment. This fee is non-refundable.
3. Schedule an interview appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Wait times vary from a few days to many months depending on location and season.
4. Attend the in-person interview with your passport, DS-160 confirmation, photo, appointment confirmation, and supporting documents.
5. Collect your visa or receive a decision. If additional administrative processing is required, this can add several weeks.
Key documents to prepare
Demonstrating strong ties to Pakistan is the most important element of a successful application. Documents to prepare include:
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay (must have blank visa pages)
- Bank statements for three to six months showing consistent, adequate balances
- Proof of formal employment — an employer letter on company letterhead confirming your role, salary, and leave approval
- Business ownership documents (for self-employed applicants)
- Property ownership documents or evidence of significant assets in Pakistan
- Family ties — spouse, children, parents in Pakistan
- Confirmed return flight and travel itinerary
- Invitation letter if visiting friends or family in the US
How long you can stay
B-1/B-2 visa validity varies — one year or five years with single or multiple entries, depending on the officer’s assessment. Each time you enter the US, a CBP officer determines the specific admission period, typically up to six months for tourism.
Passport validity requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the United States, and must have blank pages for the visa sticker.
Proof of funds
Bank statements showing a stable history of funds sufficient to cover your flights, accommodation, and living costs in the US. Funds deposited shortly before the application are less convincing than a long history of consistent balances.
Onward or return travel
A confirmed return flight to Pakistan and a detailed travel plan are expected.
Health requirements
No vaccination requirements for Pakistani citizens entering the United States.
Other entry requirements
You cannot work in the US on a B-1/B-2 visa. Overstaying your admitted period is a serious violation that can result in bars on future US travel.
FAQs
Do Pakistanis need a visa for the USA?
Yes. Pakistani passport holders must apply for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa — there is no visa-free or ESTA option.
How much does it cost?
$185 non-refundable MRV application fee.
Where do I apply in Pakistan?
US Embassy Islamabad, US Consulate Karachi, or US Consulate Lahore. Check current interview appointment availability on the embassy website.
What is the most important thing for a Pakistani visa application?
Demonstrating strong ties to Pakistan — steady employment, property, and family — is crucial. The consular officer must be convinced you will return to Pakistan after your visit.
How long will my visa be valid?
This varies by applicant. Many Pakistani applicants receive one-year or five-year multiple-entry visas. Each admission is capped by CBP at the port of entry.
Can I apply if I have been refused before?
Yes. A previous refusal is not permanent. Identify and address the reason for the prior refusal before reapplying — typically insufficient ties to Pakistan or inadequate documentation.