India visa for Pakistani citizens
Pakistani citizens are not on the Indian e-Visa list: apply for a regular visa to the Indian embassy, high commission or the visa centre it uses in the country where you live.
Check the official site before you travel. imptpune.in is a hotel and travel site; it does not issue visas. Visa rules change: confirm on indianvisaonline.gov.in.
| Status | Visa from an Indian mission |
|---|---|
| Visa type | Regular visa from an Indian mission |
| Where to apply | The Indian embassy, high commission or visa centre where you live |
| Processing | Set by the Government of India: check the official site |
| Arrival | Any authorised immigration check post |
| Note | Citizens of Pakistan, and people of Pakistani origin, apply for a regular visa through an Indian mission; the e-Visa is not available. |
Pakistani citizens and people of Pakistani origin must apply for a regular visa from an Indian mission before travelling. The e-Visa scheme does not cover Pakistan. You need to plan well ahead, as the process involves an appointment, document submission and biometrics at an Indian mission or visa centre. Check the official site indianvisaonline.gov.in for current procedures.
What this means in practice
Pakistani citizens cannot use the online e-Visa portal. You must apply for a regular visa through the Indian mission in your country of residence. This is a paper-based process that takes longer than an e-Visa. You will need to submit your passport in person or through a designated visa centre.
The visa you receive will specify the purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business or medical treatment. You cannot change your purpose after arrival. The visa is usually single-entry and valid for a limited period. Check the exact conditions on the visa sticker before you travel.
Before you travel and on arrival
Before you travel, confirm that your visa is stamped and matches your travel dates. Carry a printed copy of the visa approval and your passport. At the Indian airport, you will go through immigration and biometric checks. Officials may ask about your itinerary and accommodation.
You are required to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival if your visa is for more than 180 days. For shorter stays, no registration is needed. Keep your visa and passport accessible during your stay.
Arriving in big cities and travelling between them
When you arrive in a major city like Delhi, Mumbai or Kolkata, use the prepaid taxi or app-based services from the airport. Hotels and guesthouses will ask to see your passport and visa. Carry a copy of your visa for verification at check-in.
Travelling between cities by train or domestic flight is straightforward. Your visa covers all of India, so you do not need additional permits for most destinations. However, some areas like parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast and the Andaman Islands require a special permit. Check before you plan your route.
Staying longer, working or studying
If you wish to stay longer than the visa allows, apply for a visa extension through the FRRO. Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted only for compelling reasons. For work or study, you need a separate employment or student visa. These are issued by the Indian mission before you travel.
Do not overstay your visa. Overstaying can lead to fines, detention or a ban on future travel. If your visa is lost or stolen, report it to the police and the nearest FRRO immediately. They will issue a duplicate visa or an exit permit. Always check the official site for the latest rules.
How to apply
- Find the Indian mission or visa centre that covers your area of residence.
- Fill in the online visa application form on indianvisaonline.gov.in.
- Print the completed form and book an appointment at the mission or centre.
- Submit your passport, supporting documents and biometrics in person.
- Wait for the visa decision; the mission will contact you when ready.
- Collect your passport with the visa sticker before your travel date.
Documents to carry
- Valid passport with at least one blank page
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-size photographs as per specifications
- Proof of address and identity in Pakistan
- Travel itinerary and hotel bookings
- Copy of the visa approval letter
Pakistani citizens: questions
Can Pakistani citizens apply for an e-Visa to India?
No, Pakistani citizens are not eligible for the e-Visa. You must apply for a regular visa through an Indian mission in your country of residence.
Where do Pakistani citizens apply for an India visa?
You apply at the Indian High Commission or consulate in the country where you live. In Pakistan, the High Commission in Islamabad and consulates in Karachi, Lahore and other cities process visas.
How long does it take to get an India visa for a Pakistani citizen?
Processing times vary. Check the official site indianvisaonline.gov.in for the current timeline. Apply well in advance of your planned travel.
Do Pakistani citizens need to register after arriving in India?
You must register with the FRRO within 14 days if your visa is for more than 180 days. For shorter stays, no registration is needed.
Can a Pakistani citizen travel to all parts of India on a regular visa?
Your visa covers most of India, but some areas like parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast and the Andaman Islands require a special permit. Check before you travel.
What happens if a Pakistani citizen overstays their India visa?
Overstaying can result in fines, detention or a ban on future travel. Apply for an extension through the FRRO before your visa expires if needed.
Where will you stay in Pune?
Koregaon Park for a first visit, Viman Nagar for the airport, Hinjewadi or Kharadi for work. Live prices for your dates open in the IMPT app.
Photo credits: Photo on Pexels.