Being in a place where Urdu is the language of daily life adds so much breadth and depth to the learning experience, and now it is easier than before to visit Pakistan due to visa policy update. 

I came to Pakistan on a tourist visa and have been taking classes at Zubaan. It has been challenging but fun to try out my newly acquired knowledge in real world situations. The people I encounter on the street or in shops or taxis use phrases that expand my vocabulary. They aren’t trained like my instructor to structure their questions or answers within the framework of what I have already learned.

I experienced many communication failures, but the thrill of successfully getting my meaning across makes the struggle worth it. People are usually surprised and pleased that I am interested enough in their culture to try to learn the language. 

If you have considered coming over here for work or as a tourist, there is good news for you related to getting a visa. I found it to be a somewhat daunting process when I first applied for my tourist visa. However, in August of this year (2024), the Pakistani government decided to streamline the process for certain categories of applicants and remove the processing fee for the citizens of 126 countries, listed on the government website. All you need is a passport and photo!

The visas are called Visa Prior to Arrival (Business) and Visa Prior to Arrival (Tourist). There is a third category for Sikh pilgrims. The visas, barring any complications, will be granted in 24 hours. This welcome new policy is part of the Pakistani government’s efforts to attract more businesspeople and to build up the tourist industry in this beautiful country.

Please check the government website, links below, to see if you qualify for this new plan.

https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/visa-prior-to-arrival/

https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/visa-prior-to-arrival-tourist/

https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/visa-prior-to-arrival-business/  

~Shared by a current student at Zubaan