---
title: United States visa for citizens of Pakistan
description: "Citizens of Pakistan need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: $185. Processing: 3–21 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-states/pakistan
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# United States visa for citizens of Pakistan

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.*

Official application site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

## 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

- **Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)** (Identity): Must have at least two blank visa pages.
- **DS-160 confirmation page** (Identity): Print the barcode page after completing online application.
- **Passport-size photograph (2x2 inches, white background)** (Identity): Must meet U.S. visa photo requirements.
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Financial): Pay the MRV fee online or at designated bank.
- **Interview appointment confirmation** (Supporting): Print the appointment letter from the scheduling system.
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Show sufficient funds to cover trip expenses.
- **Employment letter (if employed)** (Employment, optional): Include salary, position, and approved leave.
- **Travel itinerary (if applicable)** (Travel, optional): Flight reservations and hotel bookings.
- **Proof of ties to home country (e.g., property deeds, family certificates)** (Supporting, optional): Demonstrate intent to return after visit.
- **Previous U.S. visas (if any)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/)

## More

- [United States visa for every passport](/visa/united-states)
- [Every destination for Pakistan passport holders](/visa/passport/pakistan)