How to Apply for US Visa from Pakistan: Step-by-Step Process
Applying for a US visa from Pakistan for the first time? Follow these steps in order — DS-160, fee, booking, interview, collection — with the official links and contacts.
Quick answer: 1. Complete DS-160 at the CEAC website. 2. Pay the $185 fee. 3. Create an account at usvisascheduling.com and book Islamabad or Karachi. 4. Attend the interview with passport, DS-160 confirmation and supporting documents. 5. Collect your passport by courier. Apply in Pakistan — your country of nationality/residence.
In this guide
Step 1: Complete DS-160
Go to the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) at ceac.state.gov, select Pakistan, and complete the DS-160 online nonimmigrant visa form: personal details, travel plans, US travel history, and a digital photo meeting US specs. Check everything before submitting — it cannot be edited afterwards. Save and print the confirmation page with its barcode; you will need the barcode number to book.
Step 2: Pay the fee
Pay the $185 MRV fee — online by credit/debit card or by bank deposit at designated banks in Pakistan. It is non-refundable. Keep the receipt: the booking system will ask for the payment reference. (Fee detail: US visa fee for Pakistani.)
Step 3: Book the interview
Create an account at usvisascheduling.com (Pakistan’s official scheduling portal), enter your DS-160 barcode, and choose Islamabad or Karachi. Current waits: ~30 days Karachi, ~5 months Islamabad (October 2026). Since September 2025 you must apply in your country of nationality or residence — booking elsewhere risks refusal and the fee is not refunded. Print the appointment confirmation.
Step 4: The interview day
Islamabad (Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5): arrive 45 minutes early; leave electronics (except your phone) at home. Karachi (Plot 3–5, New TPX Area, Mai Kolachi Road): arrive 15 minutes early. Bring: passport, DS-160 confirmation, appointment letter, fee receipt, and your documents folder (job letter, bank statements, property papers, itinerary). Prepare with interview questions.
Step 5: After the interview
Approved: the passport with the visa foil returns by courier within days. Refused under 214(b): not a ban — reapply when circumstances change. 221(g): administrative processing — track at ceac.state.gov, wait 90 days before inquiring. Helpline: (+92)(21) 111-234-111; email support-pakistan@usvisascheduling.com. See processing time explained.
FAQs
Where do I apply for a US visa in Pakistan?
US Embassy Islamabad or Consulate General Karachi, booked via usvisascheduling.com.
Can I fill DS-160 myself or need an agent?
You can do it yourself — it is a straightforward online form. Agents add no advantage at the interview, where you answer personally.
How early should I apply before travelling?
At least 6 months — the embassy’s own advice, given interview waits and possible administrative processing.
