In a surprising twist for global travelers and tourism professionals, Pakistan has quietly suspended its popular Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) program, which previously allowed citizens of 126 countries to secure a free travel authorization with minimal hassle.
What Was the VPA – And Why It Mattered
Introduced in August 2024, Pakistan’s Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) initiative was a major step toward opening the country to international tourism and business travel. Under this policy, visitors from a wide range of countries, including major European nations, North America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania could obtain a free 90-day visa with simplified requirements, often processed within 24–48 hours.
The VPA program was part of a broader strategy to:
- boost tourism growth,
- attract foreign investment,
- simplify travel documentation,
- and spotlight Pakistan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
What Has Changed in 2026?
As of January 1, 2026, the VPA option has disappeared from Pakistan’s official online visa portals, including both the visa.nadra.gov.pk website and the Pak ID mobile app interface.
According to travel policy sources:
- The VPA category no longer appears when users begin an application, effectively forcing applicants to switch to the standard e-Visa process.
- There’s no official government announcement explaining whether the suspension is temporary or permanent.
So What Does This Mean for Travelers?
1. Standard e-Visa Required
Instead of the free VPA, visitors now must apply for a regular paid e-Visa with fees based on nationality and type of travel (tourist, business, etc.).
2. Higher Costs & More Documentation
Unlike the streamlined VPA, which had a short form and minimal requirements.. the standard visa may demand:
- Proof of accommodation,
- Detailed itinerary or travel purpose,
- Additional supporting documents,
and potentially longer processing timelines.
3. Longer Processing Times
Under the VPA system, approval could happen in as little as 24–48 hours. The standard e-Visa process used now can take up to seven business days or more, depending on workload and nationality.
Who Was Affected?
The VPA suspension impacts citizens from a broad list of around 126 countries spanning all continents including (but not limited to):
- European Union states such as Germany, France, Spain, and Italy
- North America including the U.S. and Canada
- Asia including Japan, South Korea, and many South/SE Asian nations
- Major African and Oceania countries like South Africa and Australia
Traveler Tips Before Booking Your Trip
✈️ Check the updated Pakistan government visa site first – policies may still be evolving.
📄 Apply for a standard e-Visa early – delays can occur during peak travel seasons.
🧳 Prepare all supporting documents in advance – including hotel bookings and round-trip tickets.
📍 Speak with your travel agent or nearest consulate if your trip is urgent and you’re unsure which visa category applies.
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