Visit Visa for USA from Pakistan: Complete Guide 2026
Planning a trip to America? This is the complete guide to the US visit visa (B1/B2) for Pakistani citizens: who can apply, the process, fees, processing time, interview tips and what to avoid.
Quick answer: Pakistani citizens apply for the B1/B2 visitor visa: complete DS-160, pay $185, book an interview in Islamabad or Karachi (waits ~5 months / ~30 days), and attend in person. Most visas are issued as 5-year multiple-entry; each stay up to 6 months. The officer’s deciding question: will you return to Pakistan?
What the B1/B2 covers
The B1/B2 is America’s visitor visa: B1 for business (meetings, conferences), B2 for tourism, family visits and medical treatment. Most applicants receive a combined B1/B2. It does not allow work or study — for those you need different visa categories.
Who can apply
Any Pakistani citizen with a valid passport can apply. There is no travel ban on Pakistan for visitor visas. What matters is convincing the consular officer of three things: (1) your trip has a genuine temporary purpose, (2) you can pay for it, and (3) you have strong ties pulling you back to Pakistan (job, business, property, family). No sponsor is required.
The process
1. Complete DS-160 online (CEAC) and print the barcode confirmation. 2. Pay the $185 MRV fee. 3. Book at usvisascheduling.com — Islamabad or Karachi. 4. Attend the interview with your passport (6+ months validity), DS-160 confirmation and supporting documents. 5. Collect your passport by courier. Full detail: how to apply step by step, requirements, and interview questions.
After approval
Pakistani B1/B2 visas are typically multiple-entry, valid 5 years. At the US port of entry, a CBP officer decides your admitted stay — up to 6 months. Overstaying can destroy future visa chances. Also note: from 2026, online presence review is routine — keep social media consistent with your application.
FAQs
Is the US visit visa difficult for Pakistanis?
It demands thorough preparation — strong ties, clear purpose, clean paperwork — but many Pakistanis are approved every year.
Can I work on a B1/B2 visa?
No. Employment of any kind is prohibited; it can lead to deportation and a ban.
Do I need a sponsor or invitation letter?
No. You qualify on your own ties to Pakistan; an invitation letter is not a deciding factor.
