Land of K2, Ancient Civilisations & Legendary Hospitality
Yes. Tourist visas can be extended at the regional passport office or through NADRA. Extensions are typically granted for an additional 30 days. For longer stays, you should apply for the appropriate visa category. Processing takes 3–7 business days.
Pakistan does not have a dedicated digital nomad visa as of 2026. Most remote workers use the tourist e-Visa (30 days) and renew or exit/re-enter. The government has discussed a freelancer visa programme linked to the Pakistan Software Export Board, but it is not yet implemented.
Indian citizens require a prior visa from the Pakistan Embassy/High Commission. The e-Visa system does not apply to Indian passport holders. Visas are typically issued for specific cities only, and travellers must report to police upon arrival. The process is bureaucratic and can take several weeks.
Major cities (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi) and northern areas (Hunza, Swat, Skardu) are generally safe for foreigners. Pakistan has invested heavily in security improvements since 2015. However, travel to Balochistan and certain tribal areas is restricted. Always check your government's latest travel advisory before visiting.
Non-residents are taxed only on Pakistan-source income (such as rent or local business profits), not on foreign salary. Many Overseas Pakistanis still file a return to claim filer status and lower withholding rates, and to declare Pakistan-based assets.
From 1 July to 30 June. The year is named after the calendar year in which it ends, so tax year 2025 covers 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
A filer has submitted their income tax return and appears on the Active Taxpayers List, paying lower withholding tax. A non-filer pays higher rates on many transactions and can face purchase restrictions.
Pakistan has an extensive network of double taxation avoidance treaties. Where a treaty applies, foreign income taxed abroad is generally relieved from being taxed again in Pakistan. Check the specific treaty with your country.
Generate a Payment Slip ID (PSID) inside the IRIS portal, then pay via internet/mobile banking, an ATM, or over the counter at a bank. Keep the confirmation as proof of payment.
Foreign nationals generally cannot own property in Pakistan. However, POC (Pakistan Origin Card) holders and dual nationals of Pakistani origin can buy property freely. Some special economic zones may allow foreign investment in commercial property. Always consult a local lawyer before attempting any property purchase.
DHA is generally preferred for its central locations, established infrastructure, and proximity to city centres. Bahria Town offers newer construction, lower prices, and more modern amenities but is typically farther from the city centre. In Islamabad, DHA Phase 2 and Bahria Town Phase 7–8 are both excellent. In Lahore, DHA is the clear winner for location.
Electricity load-shedding (planned outages) remains common — 2–6 hours/day in cities, more in rural areas. Most DHA and Bahria Town areas have better electricity supply. A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) or generator is essential. Gas supply is unreliable in winter (especially Lahore and Punjab). Water is typically from borewell or tanker supply.
Fibre-optic internet (StormFiber, Transworld, PTCL Fiber) is available in DHA and major sectors of Islamabad/Lahore/Karachi at 50–100 Mbps for PKR 3,000–5,000/month. 4G/LTE coverage from Jazz, Telenor, and Zong is widespread in urban areas. 5G trials are underway. Outside major cities, connectivity drops significantly.
No. Tap water is generally not safe to drink in Pakistan. Use bottled water or install a reliable filtration system, and be cautious with ice and raw produce.
In cities and professional settings, yes — English is an official language and widely used in business, education, and government. Learning some Urdu greatly helps in markets, with staff, and for daily life.
Go to an official operator franchise (Jazz, Zong, Telenor, or Ufone) with your passport or CNIC and complete biometric fingerprint registration. SIMs without biometric registration will not activate.
Imported phones must be registered with the PTA through the DIRBS system within a grace period, and a device tax may apply. Register your handset soon after arrival to avoid it being blocked on local networks.
It is generally affordable by international standards, especially outside the biggest cities. Rent in prime neighbourhoods of Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad and imported goods cost the most; local produce, transport, and services are inexpensive.