How Many Countries Are Visa Free on Pakistani Passports?
A Comprehensive Guide
If you hold a Pakistani passport, you are likely aware of the challenges that come with international travel. A Pakistani passport is often ranked lower in terms of visa-free access compared to those from countries with more powerful passports. However, there are still opportunities for Pakistani citizens to travel without a visa or to obtain a visa on arrival.
In this article, we will delve deep into the number of countries that are visa-free or offer visa-on-arrival privileges for Pakistani passport holders, how this situation has evolved, and what you need to know when planning your trips.
Over the years, the Pakistani passport has made significant strides when it comes to international travel. While it used to be that Pakistani citizens could only travel to a limited number of countries without applying for a visa in advance, the situation has gradually improved. As of now, Pakistani passport holders can travel to over 30 countries without needing to go through the formal visa process.
This positive trend is largely due to diplomatic agreements between Pakistan and other nations, trade relations, regional cooperation, and changes in global political dynamics. Several countries now offer visa-on-arrival (VOA) options, which greatly simplifies the travel experience. While this still requires some additional paperwork or a fee, it is far easier than applying for a visa beforehand.
Countries Offering Visa-Free or Visa-on-Arrival Access
1) Asia
Here’s a detailed list of countries that offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to Pakistani passport holders. These countries span various regions, offering both short-term travel options for tourism and longer stays for business or education.
Maldives: One of the most popular destinations for Pakistani tourists, the Maldives allows visa-free entry for up to 30 days. Whether you’re looking to relax on the white sandy beaches or explore the underwater world, the Maldives is a fantastic choice.
Nepal: Pakistani citizens can visit Nepal without a visa, which makes it a popular destination for trekking in the Himalayas and experiencing Buddhist culture. Nepal allows 30-day visa-free access.
Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka is a favorite among South Asian travelers. Pakistani nationals can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online, which grants 30-day visa-free access. This digital option makes the process more efficient.
Thailand: Although Pakistani passport holders require a visa for longer stays, Thailand offers a 15-day visa-free stay for those traveling by air and arriving through the country’s international airports.
Indonesia: Indonesia allows Pakistani passport holders to visit without a visa for up to 30 days. Whether you’re visiting the stunning islands or exploring vibrant cities, Indonesia is a top choice for tourism.
Bhutan: Located in the heart of the Himalayas, Bhutan offers a unique cultural experience and provides visa-free access for up to 14 days. The country is renowned for its preservation of nature and culture.
Cambodia: Cambodia provides a visa-on-arrival service for Pakistani passport holders. This allows for a 30-day stay, and the process is smooth and straightforward.
Timor-Leste: A small Southeast Asian country, Timor-Leste offers visa-on-arrival for up to 30 days, making it an accessible destination for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.
2) Africa
Kenya: Pakistanis can obtain a Visa on Arrival in Kenya, which is valid for up to 90 days. Kenya is known for its breathtaking safaris and wildlife.
Seychelles: The Seychelles allows Pakistani passport holders to visit without a visa, providing a 30-day stay. Famous for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Seychelles is an idyllic tropical destination.
Mozambique: Mozambican authorities grant Pakistani citizens a 30-day visa-on-arrival.
Madagascar: Madagascar offers visa-on-arrival access to Pakistani citizens for up to 90 days.
3) Caribbean and Latin America
Dominica: Dominica is a stunning Caribbean island that allows Pakistani nationals to visit without a visa for up to 21 days.
Haiti: Haiti also offers visa-free access to Pakistani passport holders for up to 90 days, giving them the chance to explore the culture and history of the island.
Barbados: A favorite tropical destination, Barbados grants 90-day visa-free access to Pakistani citizens.
Saint Kitts and Nevis: These islands offer 90-day visa-free stays, known for their beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
4) Europe
Although Europe is often seen as restrictive when it comes to Pakistani passport holders, a few countries do offer opportunities for travel.
Turkey: Pakistanis do not need a visa to visit Turkey for up to 90 days. This country bridges Europe and Asia, offering a blend of ancient history and modern culture.
Georgia: This country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia allows visa-free access for up to 365 days, making it one of the most generous countries in terms of visa policies.
Ukraine: Pakistani citizens can visit Ukraine without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Ukraine is famous for its historical landmarks and rich cultural heritage.
5) Oceania
Fiji: For a tropical getaway, Fiji offers visa-on-arrival access for Pakistani nationals for up to 4 months.
Cook Islands: Pakistani citizens can travel to the Cook Islands for up to 31 days without requiring a visa.
Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) Countries
In addition to visa-free countries, many nations allow Pakistani passport holders to obtain a visa upon arrival. This option eliminates the need for prior application, making it a convenient choice for spontaneous travelers.
Popular Visa-on-Arrival Destinations for Pakistanis
Jordan: Visitors can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival in Jordan. This country offers incredible ancient ruins such as Petra and the Dead Sea.
Tanzania: Tanzanian authorities offer a 90-day visa-on-arrival for Pakistani passport holders, a perfect way to explore Africa’s wildlife and beautiful beaches.
Egypt: Pakistani passport holders can receive a 30-day visa-on-arrival at Egyptian airports, an excellent option for exploring the country’s ancient civilization and monuments.
Madagascar: This African island also offers visa-on-arrival for Pakistani citizens, valid for 30 days.
Bolivia: Bolivia provides a 90-day visa-on-arrival for Pakistani citizens, offering them the chance to explore this culturally rich country in South America.
Malawi: Like other countries in Africa, Malawi allows visa-on-arrival for Pakistani nationals.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Visa-Free Access
While there are several countries offering visa-free access or a visa-on-arrival option, it’s essential to note that this can be affected by your travel history, the purpose of your trip, and the relationships between countries. Here are some tips on how to enhance your chances of getting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access:
Build a Positive Travel History: Having a solid travel history can improve your chances of being granted visa-free access. Countries are more likely to trust travelers who have previously visited other nations without overstaying their visa periods.
Clear Purpose for Travel: Ensure that you have a clear purpose for your visit (tourism, business, etc.) and the necessary documentation to support it, such as hotel bookings, flight tickets, and invitation letters.
Strong Financial Standing: Showing proof that you can financially support yourself during your stay is important. This includes showing bank statements, proof of employment, or other financial documents.
Maintain Ties to Home Country: Many countries assess your likelihood of overstaying a visa. Maintaining strong ties in your home country (e.g., a job, property, or family) can enhance your chances.
Stay Updated on Visa Policies: As countries continuously update their visa policies, it’s important to stay informed about any changes that could impact your travel plans.
Use a Travel Agent: If you’re unsure about visa processes or need expert advice, using a travel agent who specializes in visa services could save you time and effort.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection and How to Avoid Them
Some common reasons for visa rejection include:
Incomplete Documents: Missing or incorrect documents are a major cause of rejection. Always review the visa requirements carefully.
Lack of Financial Proof: If you cannot demonstrate that you have enough funds for your trip, your visa will likely be denied.
Suspicious Intentions: If authorities suspect that your purpose of travel is not genuine, such as intending to overstay or work illegally, your visa may be rejected.
By ensuring that you meet all the requirements and providing accurate information, you can significantly reduce the chance of rejection.
What to Do After Receiving Your Visa
Once your visa is approved, it’s time to prepare for your trip. Here are a few things to consider:
Travel Arrangements: Book your flight and finalize your accommodation.
Travel Insurance: It’s highly recommended to get travel insurance to cover medical emergencies or any unexpected incidents during your stay.
Arrival in Spain: Upon arrival, you will go through customs. Keep your visa and other important documents handy. Spain offers excellent public transportation, so plan your routes in advance. Ensure that you comply with the visa conditions, especially the duration of your stay.
Conclusion: How Many Countries Are Visa Free on Pakistani Passports
While the Pakistani passport may not offer the same level of access as passports from some other countries, there is still a broad array of destinations available to Pakistani passport holders. Whether it’s visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival options, or easy electronic visas, there are several ways to explore the world.
From the tropical beaches of the Maldives to the historical marvels of Turkey and the peaceful islands of the Seychelles, the world is accessible if you plan strategically. Always keep updated on visa policies, as these can change frequently due to diplomatic relations, security concerns, and international agreements.
With proper preparation, understanding the visa processes, and following the right steps, Pakistani passport holders can continue to explore the world, broaden their horizons, and experience diverse cultures and landscapes. Travel is more than just a vacation; it’s an opportunity to enrich your life, gain new perspectives, and create memories that will last a lifetime.