Pakistan passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Pakistan

Embassy / VFSB1/B2 Visitor Visa

Citizens of Pakistan need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · B1/B2 Visitor Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	3650 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	3–21 days
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 Online Application
Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form at ceac.state.gov/genniv/.
2
Pay Visa Application Fee
Pay the $185 MRV fee online or at a designated bank in Pakistan.
3
Schedule Interview Appointment
Use the U.S. Visa Information Service website to book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad or Consulate in Karachi.
4
Attend Biometrics and Interview
Visit the embassy/consulate on appointment day for fingerprinting and a face-to-face interview with a consular officer.
5
Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 3–21 days; you can check status online.
6
Collect Passport with Visa
Passport will be returned via courier or pickup; if approved, visa will be affixed.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
Must have at least two blank visa pages.
DS-160 confirmation page
Print the barcode page after completing online application.
Passport-size photograph (2x2 inches, white background)
Must meet U.S. visa photo requirements.

Travel

Travel itinerary (if applicable)
Optional
Flight reservations and hotel bookings.

Financial

Visa fee payment receipt
Pay the MRV fee online or at designated bank.
Bank statements (last 3 months)
Show sufficient funds to cover trip expenses.

Employment

Employment letter (if employed)
Optional
Include salary, position, and approved leave.

Supporting

Interview appointment confirmation
Print the appointment letter from the scheduling system.
Proof of ties to home country (e.g., property deeds, family certificates)
Optional
Demonstrate intent to return after visit.
Previous U.S. visas (if any)
Optional
Include copies of old visas in passport.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of $5,000 USD in bank account

Bank statements
Salary slips
Tax returns

Must show sufficient funds for entire stay and return.

Good to know

Do not book non-refundable flights before visa approval.
All documents must be in English or accompanied by certified translation.
Failure to attend interview will result in application cancellation.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to home country

Provide strong evidence of employment, family, property, or other commitments in Pakistan.

Incomplete or incorrect application

Double-check DS-160 entries and ensure all required fields are filled accurately.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Disclose any past issues honestly; provide explanation if applicable.

FAQ

Do citizens of Pakistan need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Pakistan need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

How long can citizens of Pakistan stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Pakistan?

Government fee: $185.

How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 3–21 days.

What documents do citizens of Pakistan need for the United States?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay); DS-160 confirmation page; Passport-size photograph (2x2 inches, white background); Visa fee payment receipt; Interview appointment confirmation; Bank statements (last 3 months); and 4 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

Sources

ceac.state.gov

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