ISLAMABAD – If you are planning to visit Russia from Pakistan, you need to check new step that travelers cannot afford to miss as Pakistan has updated its visa rules, making sponsor biometric verification through the PakID app mandatory for relevant visa applications.
Under the new rules, authorities made sponsor biometric verification through PakID application mandatory for applicable visa categories, according to an announcement by the Pakistani Embassy in Russia.
Visa applications without sponsor’s biometric verification will not be processed. The embassy advised applicants to complete the verification procedure before submitting their visa requests to avoid delays or possible rejection.
Russian citizens seeking tourist visas to Pakistan will continue to apply through the Ministry of Interior’s online visa portal. Applicants are required to submit a valid passport and a recent photograph as part of the application process.
The embassy noted that tourist visas are currently issued with multiple-entry privileges and remain valid for up to 90 days. However, visa issuance remains subject to approval by the Government of Pakistan.
Also, travelers have been instructed to submit their travel intentions at least 24 hours before departure to obtain a Visa Grant Notice, a document required for travel arrangements. The embassy also reiterated that foreign nationals holding a Visa Prior to Arrival are not permitted to enter or exit Pakistan through the Chaman and Torkham border crossings.
Officials said the introduction of mandatory sponsor biometric verification is aimed at strengthening security measures, enhancing identity authentication, and improving the overall efficiency of the visa processing system.
Applicants have been urged to review the updated guidelines carefully and ensure all verification requirements are fulfilled through the PakID application before lodging their visa applications.
Russia Visa Guide for Pakistani
Pakistani citizens can apply for several types of Russian visas, including Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Student Visa or Work Visa.
According to the latest consular fee schedule, a standard single-entry Russian visa costs Rs22,560. Travelers who need faster processing can opt for an urgent visa, which costs 45,120. Keep in mind that the final amount may vary depending on the visa category and the processing option selected.
Before starting your application, make sure you have:
- A valid passport
- A completed visa application form
- Recent passport-size photographs
- An invitation letter or visa support document (if required)
- Proof of accommodation and travel plans
- Additional documents related to your purpose of travel
Standard visa applications are generally processed within 4 to 20 working days. If urgent processing is available for your visa category, applications may be completed within 1 to 3 working days.
Double-check that all information on your application matches your supporting documents. Even minor discrepancies can lead to delays. It’s also a good idea to apply well before your planned travel date, especially during peak travel seasons.
