Valid NICOP Holders Can Still Enter Without Visa
Pakistan has introduced stricter travel requirements for overseas Pakistanis using foreign passports. Travellers must now carry a valid National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis, known as NICOP, or obtain a Pakistani visa before departure.
The government has clarified that overseas Pakistanis with valid NICOP cards can continue entering Pakistan without a visa. The facility remains available to eligible travellers from Britain, the United States, Europe and other countries.
A government spokesperson rejected reports suggesting that all British passport holders would be barred from entering Pakistan through NICOP. The spokesperson described those claims as incorrect and misleading.
The restriction applies only when a traveller’s NICOP is expired, invalid or cancelled. Those carrying a valid card can continue using their foreign passports under existing visa-free arrangements.
Expired NICOP Holders Must Obtain Pakistani Visa
Any overseas Pakistani travelling on a foreign passport with an expired or invalid NICOP must secure a valid Pakistani visa before boarding.
The same requirement applies to passengers whose NICOP has been officially cancelled. Such travellers cannot rely on an expired card as proof of their right to enter Pakistan without a visa.
Passengers can also travel using a valid Pakistani passport. However, those carrying only a foreign passport and an invalid NICOP will need prior visa approval.
The revised instructions apply to passengers departing from every country. They are not limited to British citizens or travellers leaving the United Kingdom.
Airlines have been directed to verify passenger documents before departure. They must not allow travellers to board without a valid NICOP, Pakistani passport or Pakistani visa.
The government spokesperson said no exception would be provided at the airport for passengers who fail to meet the entry requirements. Affected travellers could therefore be denied boarding before reaching Pakistan.
Airlines Ordered to Brief Staff and Passengers
Airline station managers have been instructed to inform check-in teams and other relevant staff about the revised rules.
Carriers must advise passengers before boarding and ensure that their documents meet Pakistan’s entry requirements. This step is intended to prevent travellers from reaching the airport with expired identity cards and no valid visa.
Overseas Pakistanis should check their NICOP expiry date well before booking or beginning their journey. Those with expired cards should complete the renewal process or apply for a Pakistani visa before departure.
NADRA provides NICOP renewal services through its PakID platform. Pakistan’s online visa system is also available for eligible foreign passport holders, but travellers should begin their applications early and wait for approval before finalising travel plans.
The newly reported directive appears to tighten earlier public guidance published by the Federal Investigation Agency. That older guidance said travellers with expired NICOP or Pakistan Origin Cards could travel with a NADRA renewal receipt or receive a short landing permit after arrival. The FIA webpage was still displaying that earlier information when checked.
Because the older online guidance conflicts with the newly reported instructions, passengers should confirm the latest requirements with their airline or the nearest Pakistani diplomatic mission before travelling.
The key rule remains clear under the new directive. A foreign passport alone is not sufficient for an overseas Pakistani claiming visa-free entry. The traveller must also hold a valid NICOP or obtain a Pakistani visa before boarding.
