Living in Pakistan: the ultimate expat guide

Pakistan transformed its immigration landscape in 2024 with the introduction of a streamlined e-visa system. The Visa Prior to Arrival (VPA) program, launched in August 2024, provides free electronic visas to citizens of over 120 countries. This reform represents a significant shift for expatriates planning to work or live in Pakistan, eliminating previous bureaucratic obstacles. Citizens of the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most European nations can now obtain business and tourist visas quickly through an online platform.

Free E-Visa System

Since August 14, 2024, eligible nationals can obtain a free electronic visa valid for 90 days with multiple entries. Applications are processed through the official platform at visa.nadra.gov.pk with processing times of 24-48 hours. The system covers three main categories: Business, Tourism, and Pilgrimage. The PAK-ID mobile application, launched in February 2025, allows travelers to manage their documentation digitally. E-gates operate at nine international airports plus Gwadar Port for expedited immigration clearance.

Visa Exemptions and Special Cases

Citizens of GCC countries (United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait) can enter without a visa for 90 days with multiple entries. The Maldives, Trinidad and Tobago, Vanuatu, Dominica, Haiti, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines also enjoy this privilege. UN and Interpol passport holders are exempt, as are individuals holding the NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) or POC (Pakistan Origin Card). Turkish nationals with valid Schengen, UK, or US visas can obtain visas on arrival.

Work Permits and Long-Term Residence

Extended professional stays require a Work Visa obtained through Pakistani embassies or consulates. Required documents include a signed employment contract and a work permit issued by the Board of Investment (BOI). This permit is mandatory for any paid employment in the country. The Visitor Visa for family purposes requires an invitation letter from a Pakistani national and the sponsor's family documents (CNIC or NICOP). Several countries maintain bilateral agreements with Pakistan facilitating certain administrative procedures.

Online Application Process

The application begins by creating an account on the official platform. Applicants complete the DS-160 form and upload required documents: passport photo, passport copy (valid at least 6 months beyond application date), return ticket, and hotel reservation. After submission, the Visa Grant Notice typically arrives within 24-48 hours. This document must be presented to immigration authorities upon arrival. Police registration is required for certain nationalities, though hotels generally handle this automatically. Exit requires either a valid visa or an exit permit if your visa has expired.

Pakistan's employment landscape is evolving rapidly with emerging sectors and substantial youth entering the workforce. As the world's sixth-largest labor force, the country offers opportunities particularly for skilled professionals in technology, finance, and infrastructure development. However, challenges including regional disparities and a significant informal sector require careful consideration. Understanding the employment ecosystem and business registration process is essential for those planning to work or establish operations in Pakistan.

Labor Market Overview

The Pakistani labor market presents a dynamic but complex picture. Current employment statistics reveal the following landscape:

Sources: Trading Economics, Statista, World Bank

Growing Sectors for Expatriates

Information technology is experiencing robust expansion with software development firms, call centers, and freelancing platforms generating increasing export revenue. The construction and infrastructure sector benefits from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) investments and government mega-projects creating demand for engineering and project management expertise. Financial services are modernizing rapidly with fintech growth alongside traditional banking and insurance expansion. Textiles and garments remain economic pillars, employing substantial workforce numbers and driving export revenues. Agriculture, while largely informal, continues as a strategic sector supporting the economy.

Starting Your Business

Company registration proceeds through the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). Primary business structures include Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Private Limited Company, and Public Limited Company. Essential steps include obtaining a National Tax Number (NTN) from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), registering for sales tax if applicable, and enrolling with social security organizations EOBI and PESSI. Local chambers of commerce, particularly the KCCI in Karachi and LCCI in Lahore, can assist foreign entrepreneurs. Timelines and costs vary depending on the business structure chosen and the province of establishment.

Pakistan operates a progressive tax system with rates revised annually through the Finance Act. Since July 2025, new brackets apply for individual income tax. Pakistan maintains over 70 tax treaties internationally, including agreements with the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, preventing double taxation. Understanding your tax residency status is crucial, as it determines whether you're taxed on worldwide income or only Pakistan-source earnings.

Personal Income Tax

The Finance Act 2025, effective July 1, 2025, establishes new tax brackets for salaried individuals. Annual income up to PKR 600,000 is tax-exempt. Beyond this threshold, rates are 1% up to PKR 1,200,000, then 11% up to PKR 2,200,000, 23% up to PKR 3,200,000, 30% up to PKR 4,100,000, and 35% above that. High earners exceeding PKR 10 million face an additional 9% surcharge on calculated tax. The system operates through employer withholding. Tax residents pay on worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on Pakistan-source income. Treaty benefits apply for qualifying individuals from countries with bilateral agreements including the US (subject to FATCA reporting), UK, Canada, and Australia.

Consumption Taxes

Federal Sales Tax stands at 18% on goods and certain services. Provinces levy their own rates on services: 15% in Sindh (19.5% for telecommunications), 16% in Punjab (19.5% for telecommunications), with similar rates in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. The 2025-26 budget introduced a new 2% Digital Transactions Proceeds Levy affecting e-commerce transactions.

Social Contributions and Local Taxes

Employers and employees contribute to the Employees Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) for retirement benefits and the Provincial Employees Social Security Institution (PESSI) in certain provinces. Specific rates depend on the scheme and salary level. Property Tax varies by province and property valuation. Capital Gains Tax applies to real estate and securities transactions. Numerous Withholding Tax rates exist for different transaction types, detailed in the FBR Tax Card 2025-26.

Active Filer Status Benefits

Registration as an Active Filer provides significant advantages. Withholding tax rates are reduced: 3% versus 10% for non-filers on property transactions. Financial service access is also facilitated. To qualify, file your annual tax return before September 30 (individuals) or December 31 (companies). The Active Taxpayers List (ATL) is updated daily by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and accessible on their website. Provincial Revenue Authorities like the SRB in Sindh and PRA in Punjab manage provincial taxes. US citizens should note FATCA compliance requirements apply to foreign accounts including Pakistani banking relationships.

Pakistan's healthcare system operates through a mixed public-private model, largely decentralized to provincial governments following constitutional reforms. Inherited from the British Beveridge system, it shows significant disparities between urban and rural areas. Approximately 70% of the population uses private facilities, considered more effective but expensive. Expatriates should secure comprehensive international health insurance to supplement local options, as the public system faces resource constraints.

Public Healthcare Infrastructure

The public network comprises 1,201 hospitals, 5,518 Basic Health Units (BHUs), 683 Rural Health Centers (RHCs), 5,802 dispensaries, 731 Maternity & Child Health Centers, and 347 TB Centers, totaling 123,394 beds. The system operates in three tiers: primary care through BHUs and RHCs, secondary care in District Headquarters Hospitals (DHQ) and Tehsil HQ Hospitals (THQ), and tertiary care in university hospitals and specialized facilities. Despite this infrastructure, health spending remains below 1.2% of GDP, well under the 5% WHO recommendation.

Private Healthcare and Insurance

Private facilities generally offer superior care quality at higher costs. Reputable hospitals include Shifa International Hospital and Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad, Aga Khan University Hospital and Indus Hospital in Karachi, and Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospitals in Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar. Private health insurance costs approximately PKR 15,000-50,000 annually for individuals and PKR 50,000-150,000 annually for families. Major insurers include Jubilee, EFU, and Adamjee. About 78% of the population pays out-of-pocket for healthcare, with less than 2% of households holding formal insurance.

Sehat Sahulat Program and Healthcare Workforce

The Sehat Sahulat Program (SSP), launched in 2015 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa then expanded in 2019, aims to achieve Universal Health Coverage by 2030. This public insurance scheme provides free care to vulnerable families through a network of partner hospitals. However, the country faces critical medical personnel shortages, with only 105,950 nurses for 241.5 million people, well below WHO standards. Approximately 40% of medical graduates leave the country for overseas practice. Urban-rural disparities remain pronounced, with a composite health index showing the wealthiest districts are 16.59 times better off than the poorest. International health insurance is strongly recommended for expatriates, ideally including medical evacuation coverage.

Pakistan's education system provides multiple options for expatriate families, from local schools to prestigious international institutions. While the public sector offers free but variable-quality education, private national and international schools represent the preferred choice for expats. Pakistan hosts 31 IB World Schools and numerous institutions offering Cambridge or American curricula. The three major cities—Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi—concentrate the bulk of international educational offerings.

Local System and International Curricula

The Pakistani system, inherited from the British model, offers Matriculation taught in Urdu or English. National private schools like Beaconhouse, The City School, and Roots provide solid education. For international curricula, Cambridge IGCSE and A-Levels dominate, accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education. The International Baccalaureate (IB) operates in 31 schools, with 14 offering the IB Diploma and 8 providing all three programs. American curriculum (K-12 with Advanced Placement) exists in several schools accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA).

International Schools in Islamabad

The International School of Islamabad (ISOI), founded in 1965, offers American curriculum from Pre-K through Grade 12 plus IB Diploma. MSA and IB World School accredited, it charges approximately USD 8,000-15,000 annually depending on grade level. Roots Millennium Schools operate multiple campuses in Islamabad offering British programs (IGCSE, A-Levels) and IB for around PKR 300,000-600,000 per year.

International Schools in Lahore

Lahore American School (LAS), established in 1956, follows American curriculum and holds MSA accreditation. Annual fees run PKR 600,000-1,000,000. Lahore Grammar School (LGS) offers British programs across multiple campuses (Gulberg, Defence, Johar Town) for PKR 500,000-800,000 annually. Beaconhouse School System maintains numerous Lahore campuses with fees of PKR 300,000-500,000 per year. International School of Choueifat follows the SABIS program (PKR 500,000-800,000 annually), while Scarsdale International School combines American, IGCSE, and IB Diploma curricula (PKR 450,000-750,000 annually). The City School International provides British curriculum through its extensive network.

International Schools in Karachi and Overall Costs

International School of Karachi (ISK) in the Clifton area offers American curriculum. Karachi Grammar School (KGS) follows British programs for approximately PKR 400,000-700,000 annually. Beaconhouse School System operates multiple Karachi campuses (PKR 300,000-600,000 per year). Generally, premium international schools charge USD 5,000-20,000 annually (approximately PKR 800,000-3,200,000), while quality national private schools require PKR 200,000-600,000. Budget for additional expenses including registration, uniforms, school transport, and extracurricular activities.

Pakistan's property market offers diverse options from modern apartments in secured compounds to standalone houses in established residential areas. Expatriates typically favor gated communities like DHA or Bahria Town, which ensure security and quality infrastructure. Rental rates vary considerably by city and neighborhood but remain generally affordable compared to Western standards. Islamabad commands the highest prices, followed by Karachi and Lahore.

Available Housing Types

Apartments range from studios to large three-bedroom-plus units, often in modern buildings with security. Standalone houses come in standardized sizes: 5 Marla, 10 Marla, or 1 Kanal (local measurement units). Villas in residential bungalow areas attract families seeking space and tranquility. Gated communities such as Defence Housing Authority (DHA) in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, Bahria Town in multiple cities, or Emaar in Karachi concentrate much expatriate demand through their complete infrastructure and secured environments.

Preferred Neighborhoods by City

In Islamabad, sectors F-6, F-7, and F-8 offer central locations with shops and services, while E-7, G-6, and G-7 attract those seeking residential calm. Bahria Town Islamabad and DHA Islamabad guarantee modern, secure settings. In Karachi, Clifton borders the sea attracting affluent residents, Defence (DHA) concentrates international schools and commerce, PECHS provides a central residential environment, and Gulshan-e-Iqbal serves upper-middle classes. In Lahore, Gulberg combines commercial and residential aspects centrally, Defence (DHA) is highly sought-after with numerous international schools, Model Town offers an established residential setting, and Bahria Town Lahore stands out for modernity.

Average Rents and Property Purchase

Nationally, a one-bedroom apartment in city center costs PKR 25,000-35,000 monthly, versus PKR 15,000-20,000 in outlying areas. Three-bedroom units run PKR 50,000-70,000 centrally and PKR 30,000-45,000 outside. In Islamabad, the most expensive city, rents reach PKR 30,000-50,000 for one bedroom centrally and PKR 70,000-100,000 for three bedrooms. In Karachi, rates range from PKR 25,000-40,000 (one bedroom) and PKR 60,000-90,000 (three bedrooms), with premium sectors like Clifton or DHA exceeding PKR 100,000-300,000 for large properties. In Lahore, rents run PKR 20,000-35,000 for one bedroom and PKR 50,000-80,000 for three bedrooms. Property purchase prices vary widely: in certain DHA Karachi sectors, for example, rates can reach PKR 200,000-500,000 per square yard. The process typically involves a real estate agent, property title verification, and official registration.

Relocating to Pakistan requires careful preparation, from securing your visa to settling into accommodation. Administrative formalities, though simplified since 2024, demand advance planning. This practical guide outlines steps before departure and upon arrival to smooth your transition.

Pre-Departure Preparations

1. Visa and documentation: Verify your passport validity (minimum 6 months), obtain your e-visa through the official platform, and keep copies of your employment contract and all important documents.
2. Housing search: Browse local property websites like Zameen.com or OLX, contact agencies specializing in expatriate services, and arrange virtual tours via video call before arrival.
3. International health insurance: Secure comprehensive coverage including medical evacuation, as the local healthcare system shows significant disparities.
4. Vaccinations: Consult your physician and verify recommendations from health authorities in your home country for Pakistan (typically typhoid, hepatitis A and B, etc.).
5. International moving: Compare international moving company quotes, research Pakistani customs regulations, and prepare detailed inventory of your belongings.

Post-Arrival Procedures

1. Police registration: This mandatory formality for certain nationalities is typically handled automatically by your hotel during initial stay.
2. Bank account opening: Bring your passport, visa, proof of address, and contact a local bank (HBL, UBL, MCB) or international institution (Standard Chartered, Citibank).
3. NICOP/POC acquisition: If you have Pakistani heritage, these cards significantly ease administrative procedures and exempt you from visa requirements.
4. Embassy registration: Register with your country's embassy or consulate to receive assistance if needed and security updates.
5. Local SIM card: Obtain a mobile line from operators like Jazz, Telenor, Zong, or Ufone to facilitate local communication.

Driving License and Vehicle

An International Driving Permit is recommended initially. After obtaining your work permit, you can apply for conversion to a Pakistani license. If considering vehicle importation, note that customs duties are substantial. Purchasing locally may prove more economical. Driving is on the left, and urban traffic can be particularly dense and poorly organized in major cities.

Pakistan delivers exceptional cultural and natural richness, from millennia-old UNESCO archaeological sites to Himalayan peaks among the world's highest. History enthusiasts will appreciate Lahore's Mughal heritage and Buddhist remnants, while nature lovers find their calling in spectacular northern valleys. From sports to culture to adventure, the country offers varied experiences for all expatriate profiles.

Cultural Heritage and Historic Sites

Pakistan holds several UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Fort and Shalimar Gardens in Lahore, Mohenjo-daro ruins in Sindh (Indus Valley civilization), Buddhist ruins of Takht-i-Bahi in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Rohtas Fort in Punjab, and the ancient city of Taxila. In Lahore, visit the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, Wazir Khan Mosque, Jehangir's Tomb, and Shalimar Gardens. Islamabad houses the majestic Faisal Mosque, South Asia's largest mosque, and the Pakistan Monument. In Karachi, explore Quaid-e-Azam's Mausoleum, Mohatta Palace, and relax at Clifton Beach.

Museums and Cultural Life

Lahore Museum, the country's oldest, displays a remarkable Gandhara art collection. The National Museum in Karachi traces subcontinent history, while Lok Virsa Museum in Islamabad showcases Pakistani folk heritage. Major cities offer restaurants, cafes, and modern shopping centers like Centaurus in Islamabad, Packages Mall in Lahore, and Dolmen Mall in Karachi. Cinemas, theaters, and cultural spaces animate urban life. Public parks like Fatima Jinnah Park in Islamabad and Lawrence Gardens in Lahore provide welcome relaxation spaces.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

Cricket is the national sport, with iconic stadiums including Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and National Stadium in Karachi. Field hockey, squash, football, and polo are also widely practiced. For adventure enthusiasts, Pakistan is a premier destination for trekking and mountaineering, featuring legendary peaks like K2, Nanga Parbat, and numerous summits exceeding 7,000 meters. River rafting in the north, skiing at Malam Jabba in Swat Valley, mountain biking, and jeep safaris complete the sporting offerings.

Must-Visit Natural Destinations

Hunza Valley delivers breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, majestic glaciers, the snow-capped Rakaposhi peak, and stunning Attabad Lake. Skardu and Gilgit-Baltistan provide access to K2 base camp, crystalline alpine lakes, and the vast Deosai Plains. Swat Valley, nicknamed "the Switzerland of Pakistan," charms with verdant landscapes and Malam Jabba ski resort. Naran-Kaghan valleys and the legendary Lake Saif-ul-Mulook constitute other popular destinations. Murree, a hill station near Islamabad, offers an easy escape from the capital. The Karakoram Highway (KKH), the world's highest paved road connecting Islamabad to the Chinese border, provides a spectacular tourist route through extraordinary landscapes.

Settling in Pakistan involves adapting to a different environment, both in terms of transportation and consumer habits. Major cities offer increasingly modern service infrastructure, with delivery applications and payment methods becoming more digital. Understanding daily operations significantly eases integration and allows you to fully benefit from your expatriate experience.

Getting Around

Public transport is gradually developing. Lahore operates a metro line (Orange Line), while Islamabad continues developing its network. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems function in Peshawar and along the Lahore-Rawalpindi-Islamabad corridors. Rickshaws and tuk-tuks remain ubiquitous with negotiable fares. Ride-hailing services like Uber, Careem, Bykea, and InDriver significantly ease urban travel. For personal vehicles, note that driving is on the left, urban traffic is dense and poorly organized, and petrol costs PKR 280-300 per liter as of October 2025. Many expatriates employ drivers to avoid local driving stress.

Shopping and Dining

Local markets (bazaars) offer fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and produce at highly competitive prices. Modern supermarkets like Imtiaz, Metro, Hyperstar, and Naheed provide wide product selections in major cities. Food delivery apps like Foodpanda and Careem Now are highly popular and simplify daily life.

Telecommunications and Banking

Main mobile operators are Jazz (market leader), Telenor, Zong, and Ufone. Fixed-line internet via fiber optic is available in major cities, with 60 Mbps packages starting from PKR 3,000-5,000 monthly. For banking, local institutions include HBL, UBL, MCB, Meezan Bank (Islamic), and Habib Metro. International banks like Standard Chartered and Citibank have limited but expatriate-friendly presence.

Lifestyle and Cultural Considerations

Office hours typically run 9am-5pm, while shops stay open late into the evening. The weekend falls on Saturday and Sunday. During Ramadan, schedules shift and most restaurants remain closed during daylight hours. Climate varies considerably by region: summers are very hot in plains, while winters can be harsh in mountainous northern areas. Air conditioning is essential in most homes during summer months.

Pakistan ranks among the world's most affordable countries for living expenses. With a cost index of 19.92 versus 100 for New York, living in Pakistan costs approximately 80% less than major cities like London or Toronto. This difference applies across all spending categories: food, housing, transport, and leisure. However, international school fees and private health insurance can represent substantial budgets for expatriate families. Here's a detailed analysis of monthly expenses for a single person and a family of four.

Single Person Budget

Excluding rent, average monthly expenses for a single person total approximately PKR 102,473 (around USD 370/GBP 285/AUD 550) according to October 2025 data. Here's the breakdown of main expenses:

Source: Numbeo (October 2025)

Family of Four Budget

For a family with two children, living costs increase significantly, particularly due to international school fees. Excluding rent, monthly expenses reach approximately PKR 327,083 (around USD 1,180/GBP 910/AUD 1,750). Here's the budget allocation:

Source: Numbeo (October 2025)

City-by-City Variations

Islamabad remains the most expensive city with a cost index around 21-22, followed by Lahore (19-20) and Karachi (18-20). Cities like Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, or Multan offer even lower living costs (index 17-18). Restaurant prices range from PKR 250-500 for a local meal, PKR 800-1,500 at mid-range establishments, and exceed PKR 2,000 at upscale restaurants. A fast-food combo costs approximately PKR 500-700. Petrol prices run PKR 280-300 per liter as of October 2025.