Want to do business in Pakistan? The SIFC business visa is a category on the NADRA Pakistan Online Visa System for foreign nationals who intend to do business in the country. Businesspeople from BVL countries can even travel on an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and get the visa on arrival. This guide covers eligibility, documents, validity, processing times and how to apply.
What is the SIFC business visa?
SIFC stands for the Special Investment Facilitation Council, which provides the recommendation needed for this visa. According to the NADRA portal, citizens of foreign countries who intend to do business in Pakistan can apply. Applicants from both Business Visa List (BVL) countries and non-BVL countries are eligible once they meet the requirements.
You will need a recommendation letter or email from SIFC. The portal has a separate link to apply for the SIFC visa invitation letter, so begin there before starting your visa application.
ETA for BVL countries
Businesspeople from BVL countries can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) at least 24 hours before their intended travel date by choosing the sub-category Business Short Term (Entry). If you receive a valid ETA for your application, you can travel to Pakistan, and the visa is granted on arrival at the entry port.
Application types: entry vs extension
You can apply online for two types of visa:
- Entry: for a new visa if you do not hold a valid Pakistan visa.
- Extension: if you already hold a valid Pakistan visa and are currently living in Pakistan.
For an extension, you must have a valid Pakistani visa and be residing in Pakistan when you apply.
Duration and validity
The long-term visa is listed on the portal as 5 years validity (2 years duration). Read how the portal explains those two figures when you apply, so you plan your stays correctly.
Not sure the business route is right for you? Compare it with our guides on the SIFC investor visa and the work, transit and transport visa.
Required documents
- Passport
- Photograph that meets the portal's specifications
- Recommendation letter or email from SIFC
- Applying from a third country: if you are not in your home country, proof of legal residence is mandatory. Upload it under the supporting document type Other.
- Extension applications: upload proof of the valid Pakistani visa you want to extend and the entry stamp in your passport, also under Other.
Processing time: BVL vs non-BVL countries
| Visa type | BVL countries | Non-BVL countries + Afghanistan |
|---|---|---|
| Business short term (entry) | 24 hours for the ETA (visa granted on arrival) | 4 weeks |
| Business long term (entry) | 24 hours | 4 weeks |
| Business extension | 2 weeks | 2 weeks |
How to apply (step by step)
- Get your SIFC recommendation. Use the invitation letter link on the NADRA page to request the SIFC letter or email.
- Check your country list. Find out if your nationality is on the BVL or non-BVL list, since it changes your options and processing time.
- Open the portal. Go to the Pakistan Online Visa System, register and log in.
- Choose the application type. Select entry for a new visa, or extension if you already hold a valid visa and live in Pakistan.
- Pick your sub-category. Choose short term or long term. BVL applicants who want the ETA select Business Short Term (Entry).
- Fill in the form and upload documents. Add your passport, photo, SIFC letter and any supporting proof.
- Submit and track. Watch your email and portal dashboard, and reply quickly if the application is sent back for review.
Open the official SIFC business visa page
Mistakes that can delay or cancel your application
- Applying without the SIFC recommendation letter or email.
- Not travelling within 90 days of receiving an ETA, which cancels the application.
- Forgetting proof of legal residence when applying from a third country.
- Applying for an extension without a valid Pakistani visa, or while outside Pakistan.
- Missing the 7-day window to resubmit after a "sent back for review" notice.
- Uploading unclear scans or a photo that does not meet portal specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for the SIFC business visa?
Foreign nationals who intend to do business in Pakistan can apply. Citizens of both BVL and non-BVL countries are eligible after meeting the requirements, including the SIFC recommendation letter or email.
What is the ETA and who can use it?
The Electronic Travel Authorization is available to businesspeople from BVL countries who apply at least 24 hours before travel under Business Short Term (Entry). With a valid ETA you can travel, and the visa is granted on arrival. The ETA is valid for 90 days.
How long is the SIFC business visa valid?
The short-term entry visa is valid for 6 months with a single entry. The long-term entry visa is listed as 5 years validity with a 2-year duration and multiple entries. An extension is valid for 2 years with multiple entries.
How long does processing take?
For BVL countries, the ETA and the long-term visa take about 24 hours and an extension about 2 weeks. For non-BVL countries and Afghanistan, both entry visas take about 4 weeks and an extension about 2 weeks.
What happens if my application is sent back for review?
The processing time starts again from the date you resubmit. If you do not resubmit within seven days, the application is cancelled.
For video guide, view this video
Final word: For the SIFC business visa, get the SIFC recommendation first, pick the sub-category that matches your trip, and respond fast if the portal asks for changes. Bookmark the official NADRA page and recheck it before you apply.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information and is not legal, business or immigration advice. This blog is not affiliated with NADRA, SIFC or the Government of Pakistan.
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