Who Needs a Work Permit in Pakistan
Any foreign national intending to work in Pakistan must obtain a work permit, commonly referred to as a work visa. This requirement applies to all non-Pakistani citizens, regardless of the nature or duration of employment. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their international hires secure the appropriate authorization before commencing employment.
Without a valid work permit, foreign employees cannot legally work in the country. Employers who do not comply with these regulations may face penalties and other legal consequences.
Types of Work Visas in Pakistan
Pakistan offers several categories of work visas tailored to different employment needs.
| Visa Type | Description |
| General Work Visa | For foreign nationals employed by Pakistani companies across various sectors. Valid for up to 2 years with multiple entries; extensions are available. |
| CPEC Work Visa | Specifically for Chinese citizens working on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects. Valid for up to 2 years; extensions are possible. |
| Journalist Visa | For foreign journalists assigned to major Pakistani cities. Validity varies based on assignment duration and approval. |
| Domestic Aide Visa | For foreign nationals employed as domestic aides in Pakistan. Initially valid for up to 2 years; extendable for an additional 2 years. |
| Transit/Transport Visa | For drivers and transporters from ECO countries entering Pakistan for transport-related purposes. Valid for 6 months with multiple entries. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Pakistan
When hiring talent in Pakistan, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Pakistan. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 24 hours to several weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Pakistan.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Pakistan
Independent professionals in Pakistan can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Polish Złoty (PLN) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Pakistan.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Pakistan
Transferring an existing team member to Pakistan? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements for a Work Permit in Pakistan
To obtain a work permit in Pakistan, both the employer and the foreign employee must fulfill specific criteria. The employer must be a registered entity with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and provide a formal employment offer. The employee must possess the necessary qualifications and experience relevant to the job role.
- Valid Passport: The employee's passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and have at least two blank pages.
- Employment Offer: A formal job offer or contract from a Pakistani employer detailing the terms and conditions of employment.
- Educational Qualifications: Certified copies of relevant educational diplomas and certificates, translated into English if necessary.
- Work Experience Certificates: Proof of previous work experience in the relevant field to support the application.
- Police Clearance Certificate: A certificate from the employee's home country indicating no criminal record.
- Medical Examination: A medical report confirming the employee is in good health and free from contagious diseases.
- Visa Application Form: A completed and accurately filled visa application form.
- Visa Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for the visa processing fee.
Pakistan Work Permit Application Process
- Step 1: The employer initiates the process by applying for a work visa through the Pakistan Online Visa System, providing necessary documents such as the employment letter and company registration details.
- Step 2: The employee submits a completed visa application form along with required documents, including a valid passport, photographs, and proof of qualifications.
- Step 3: The application is reviewed by the Board of Investment (BOI) and the Ministry of Interior (MOI). Upon approval, the employee is granted a work visa, allowing entry into Pakistan for employment purposes.
Process for Visa Sponsorship in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the employer acts as the sponsor for the foreign employee's work visa. This involves submitting a formal employment offer and necessary documentation to the relevant authorities, such as the BOI and MOI, to facilitate the issuance of the work visa. The employer must ensure compliance with all legal requirements and provide accurate information to support the employee's application.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Pakistan
The fees for work permits and visas in Pakistan vary depending on the visa type and the applicant's nationality.
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| General Work Visa | PKR 27,700 (USD 100) |
| CPEC Work Visa | PKR 27,700 (USD 100) |
Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Pakistan
The processing time for work permits and visas in Pakistan can vary based on the visa type and individual circumstances. Generally, it ranges from 24 hours to several weeks. For instance, first-time visa entries for specific projects may be processed within 24 to 48 hours, while standard applications might take longer.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Pakistan
Work permits in Pakistan are typically valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed upon expiration. The renewal process requires submission of updated documents, including a valid employment contract and proof of continued employment with the sponsoring company. It's advisable to initiate the renewal process well before the permit's expiration to ensure uninterrupted legal employment status.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Pakistan
As of now, Pakistan does not have a specific visa category tailored for digital nomads. Individuals intending to work remotely from Pakistan typically enter on tourist visas, which do not permit employment within the country.
- Visa Limitations: Tourist visas are intended for leisure and do not authorize any form of employment, including remote work for foreign companies.
- Legal Compliance: Engaging in work without the proper authorization can result in penalties, including fines or deportation.
Employers should be aware that, in the absence of a dedicated digital nomad visa, there is no formal process to sponsor remote workers in Pakistan. It's advisable to consult with immigration experts or legal advisors to explore potential avenues for compliance if considering remote work arrangements involving Pakistan.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Pakistan
Employing foreign nationals in Pakistan presents several challenges that employers should be prepared to address.
- Cultural Differences: Navigating varying cultural norms and business practices can lead to misunderstandings if not properly managed.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring adherence to Pakistan's labor laws and visa regulations requires thorough understanding and diligence.
- Language Barriers: While English is widely used in business, language differences can still pose communication challenges.
Tips for Employers:
- Cultural Sensitivity Training: Provide training to both local and foreign staff to foster mutual understanding and respect.
- Legal Consultation: Engage with legal experts specializing in Pakistani labor laws to ensure all employment practices are compliant.
- Language Support: Offer language training or hire bilingual staff to bridge communication gaps.
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