FCDO travel advice for Pakistan. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.
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Safety and security
You should also read
FCDO’s overall travel advice and
regional risks advice.
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on
staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out
how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Pakistan
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Pakistan.
There is a high threat of terrorism and sectarian violence throughout Pakistan.
Read our advice on
regional risks in Pakistan for information about areas where we advise against travel.
Terrorist groups operating in Pakistan include:
- Tehreek-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP)
- Tehreek-e Jihad Pakistan (TJP)
- Balochistan separatists
- Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP)
- al-Qa’ida
Terrorist groups mainly target Government of Pakistan security forces. Areas of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, and Quetta suffer regular terrorist attacks. Attacks have also taken place in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore and other major cities. A number of attacks have also taken place against Chinese nationals; some attacks have also targeted individuals of East Asian appearance more generally.
While terrorist attacks are mainly directed against the Pakistani state, attacks could be indiscriminate and occur without warning, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
- Pakistani government buildings and infrastructure
- security, judicial and police force locations
- places of worship, including churches and religious sites
- hotels, restaurants and shopping areas
- schools and educational institutions
- popular tourist sites or hiking trails
Be cautious about attending any public event, including:
- processions, protests, demonstrations and rallies
- religious gatherings
- sports and live music events
Public transport and transport hubs, including airports, are at risk of attack. Avoid using the railway network due to the risk of terrorist attacks.
Take particular care during periods of national, social or religious significance, including the month of Ramadan, and during election periods. When travelling, always:
- keep a low profile
- minimise your exposure to areas and events that pose a higher risk
- vary your routes and timings if you make regular journeys
- limit movements on Friday afternoons
- be prepared to change your plans as necessary
Examples of recent attacks include:
- in March 2025, the Jaffar Express passenger train travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, with at least 380 passengers on board, was hijacked by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), resulting in 64 deaths
- in November 2024, a suicide attack by Baloch separatists at Quetta railway station killed at least 26 people.
- in October 2024, a suicide attack near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport killed 4 individuals - including two Chinese nationals and two Pakistani civilians
- public service and health officials have been attacked while working on health programmes
Terrorist kidnap
There is a threat of kidnap throughout Pakistan, particularly within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces. Terrorist groups are unlikely to prioritise the kidnap of westerners in Pakistan. Any kidnap of a foreign national by terrorist groups in Pakistan would likely be opportunistic.
British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.
The long-standing policy of the British government policy is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.
Political situation
Political rallies, protests and demonstrations may take place across the country and can start with little warning. Most are peaceful, but they can turn violent quickly and lead to clashes with law enforcement. Individuals near protest activity may face increased scrutiny by security forces. During elections, terrorists have targeted security forces, political events, rallies, government buildings and polling stations.
You should:
- avoid all political demonstrations, be mindful of large crowds of people and public events
- be mindful of days of political or social significance
- be prepared to change your plans as necessary
- keep track of the local news
During times of protest or civil unrest, mobile data coverage and internet connectivity may be cut without warning. Additionally, major road networks in and around cities may be shut or blocked. Have alternative travel options such as different routes for any journeys you plan.
Crime
Protecting yourself and your belongings
Street crime is a risk, particularly in crowded areas. Take sensible measures to guard your possessions and reduce your personal risk. Be cautious when moving around urban areas at night, especially when on foot.
There is an active black market in forged and stolen passports. Credit card fraud is common. Beware of scams.
Criminal kidnap
British nationals of Pakistani origin have been targeted by criminals, including kidnappers, as they are often perceived as being wealthier than locals.
Laws and cultural differences
Pakistan is a Muslim country. Respect the local traditions, customs and laws. Make sure your actions do not cause offence.
Standards of public behaviour differ between the UK and Pakistan. Behaviour that might be acceptable in the UK can cause offence in Pakistan. Being considerate of others is important in Pakistani culture. Loud or rowdy behaviour in public is likely to attract a negative response.
Personal ID
Always carry photo ID. You may be asked to show it and you might be detained until you can show a valid ID.
Ramadan
Ramadan, also called Ramazan in Pakistan, is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to start around mid-February and finish around mid-March. During this time, do not:
- eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
- play loud music or dance
- swear in public
Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
You should also:
- check opening hours of shops and restaurants
- be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
- follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
- be aware that fasting can cause tiredness
- be aware that driving may be unpredictable, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk
- be patient and show tolerance
Dress code
Pakistan is an Islamic country. Dress modestly, men and women should cover their shoulders and legs in public. Women should cover their heads when entering mosques and holy places, and in rural areas.
Blasphemy
Insulting or showing disrespect or contempt of religion, religious beliefs or anything considered holy (blasphemy) is illegal. Blasphemy has a broad definition in Pakistani law. It includes public and private comments in any form, including on social media.
There are significant criminal penalties, including the death penalty. Those accused of blasphemy are at significant risk of violence from the public. Both Muslims and religious minorities have been victims of blasphemy accusations and violence, including killings.
Be sensitive to religious beliefs and behave appropriately.
Death penalty
The death penalty can be issued for individuals convicted for crimes including, but not limited to, blasphemy, murder and rape.
Alcohol laws and bans
Drinking alcohol is illegal for Muslims. Non-Muslims are allowed to drink in Pakistan, but you must get a licence from the authorities. It is also illegal for non-Muslims to supply alcohol to Muslims. Public drinking and drunkenness are illegal and can lead to detention.
Illegal drugs and penalties
You can get a prison sentence for possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs. British nationals have been arrested on drug trafficking charges and have been detained for long periods while their case is in the Pakistan legal system.
Taking photos in secure areas
Do not take photos at military establishments, airports or any infrastructure (including bridges and dams) or from aircraft. British nationals have been arrested on suspicion of ‘spying’. Check with officials if you’re not sure whether you can take a photo.
You should not take photos of people without seeking prior permission.
LGBT+ travellers
Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal. There are occasional arrests, and there are negative attitudes to same-sex relationships throughout Pakistan which can sometimes result in violence. See more details from the Human Dignity Trust about the
current application of the law.
Read more
advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Relationships
It is illegal for unmarried couples to live together in Pakistan. The law regarding unmarried people sharing a hotel room does not generally apply to visiting foreign nationals, particularly in popular tourist areas.
Transport risks
Planning secure travel around Pakistan
You must obtain advance permission from local or federal authorities to travel in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Balochistan and several districts in Azad Kashmir. There are several prohibited areas across the country, particularly the areas around military installations, nuclear plants, naval and aerial basis. Officials could stop you and ask you to turn back.
When travelling in Pakistan be aware of the risks, including carjacking. You or your travel agency should contact the local authorities of your destination in advance to check the local security situation. In areas of higher risk, local authorities sometimes arrange police escorts for your own protection. They will also tell you if you need a No Objection Certificate from the Pakistani Ministry of Interior.
Take safety precautions, keep a low profile and choose your accommodation carefully.
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Pakistan, see
information on driving abroad.
You’ll need to have both the
1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. If you don’t have the correct documents to drive, you could be detained and a police report could be registered in your name.
Road conditions
Outside of the major motorways, the quality of roads is variable. Road conditions can be poor. Local driving standards are erratic, especially at night. Take care on long road journeys and when travelling cross-country.
The north of Pakistan is mountainous. Many roads, including the N15 highway between Chilas and Babusar in Gilgit Baltistan, are inaccessible at some times of the year due to extreme weather conditions. Many roads in these remote areas are of very poor quality with uneven surfaces. Landslides frequently block or destroy roads. Use experienced local drivers when travelling these routes and only in clear weather conditions.
Public transport
Due to the level of crime, avoid using public transport, including the Metro Bus between Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Taxis
Avoid using street taxis, e-taxis. or online apps for taxi services. Only use taxis from reputable, licensed companies where you call for a taxi and the operator contacts a taxi driver.
Air travel
Airports can be crowded at times and your baggage may need to go through screening equipment and checks. When travelling through an airport, allow enough time to complete check-in and security procedures.
Flights to and from the mountainous areas in the north of Pakistan are frequently delayed or cancelled due to extreme weather. Ensure you have alternative routes planned in case of cancellations.
Rail travel
Avoid using the railway network due to the risk of terrorist attacks and derailments.
Sea travel
The threat from piracy within Pakistan’s territorial waters is low. There is a significant threat of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and other parts of the Indian Ocean. Mariners should follow shipping industry guidelines on precautions to take.
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