Information For Travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the US Embassy/American Citizen Services Unit located? What are the hours of operation?
We are located at the Diplomatic Enclave, G-5, Islamabad. The American Citizen Services unit is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., except American and certain Pakistani holidays. Be sure to bring your passport for identification when you come. For general recorded information, please call (051) 208-2700. The ACS unit's fax number is (051) 282-2632, and the e-mail address is acs_islamabad@state.gov
How do I register at the Embassy?
The State Department recently launched a secure online travel registration website which will allow you, as an American citizen, to record foreign trip and residence information that the Department of State can use to communicate with you and assist you in case of an emergency. You can access this site directly at https://travelregistration.state.gov We invite you to register yourself and your family and get acquainted with travel registration.
How much does it cost to get new pages in my passport?
Passport supplements are free and usually only take a few minutes.
How much does it cost to get a passport or have it renewed?
US$ 82.00 for a minor (under 16 yrs. of age)
US$ 67.00 for an adult renewal
US$ 97.00 for an adult first time issuance or replacement
How long does it take to renew a passport?
Passport renewals usually take about two weeks to complete after the application has been approved.
Does my child really have to come in to see you?
Yes. Your child, even a newborn, must appear in person at our offices at the time you make the application.
There are no exceptions or waivers possible for this requirement for newborns and other first time applicants.
If your child’s appearance has changed significantly since his or her last passport was issued, we need a progression of photographs of the child from that time to the present. Photos should be taken no more than six months apart, dated and arranged in chronological order.
I'm confused about personal appearances…
I'm 13 and want to renew my passport. How do I do it?
You'll need to apply in person, accompanied by a parent. The two parent agreement rules apply.
I'm 14 years old. What do I do?
You will also need to apply in person, but do need to be accompanied by a parent.
I'm 25 now, but my last passport was issued when I was 15.
You must also apply in person.
My spouse is going to the Embassy to renew our son’s passport. Do we need to provide a "two parent consent form"?
All applicants under the age of 14 must meet the requirements listed in the two parent consent requirement.
For those parents who are required to apply in person on behalf of their child, such as a new born baby's first passport, one parent signs in person and submits a copy of the second parent's passport and signed consent (download the affidavit form at http://travel.state.gov/DS-3053.pdf. The form must be notarized.
Do my newborns' passport photos have to show her eyes open? How do I take the pictures? How long do I have to apply?
The child’s eyes need to be open. You can also go to a professional photographer. While you have until the child turns 18 to apply for the first passport, we suggest you apply as soon as possible. Processing takes about three weeks, and your child will not be able to travel in an emergency without the passport. For more information please visit http://islamabad.usembassy.gov/pakistan/birth_abroad.html
On the back of the passport application form in tiny, tiny print it says "Enclose the passport fee in the form of personal check or money order". Can I use my personal check?
Sorry, that refers to applications made in the U.S. Here in Pakistan, all walk-in application fees are payable in cash, either in U.S. dollars or Pakistani rupees. We cannot accept credit cards or personal checks in any instance or case.
Can I use black and white photos for my passport?
No. The photos must be in color. The photos must be 2" x 2" (5 cm x 5 cm) with a white or very light colored background. Blue backgrounds are not acceptable. Be careful with the size. You can learn more about applying for a passport, including details on the photos, at http://islamabad.usembassy.gov/pakistan/passports.html
When I download a passport application, can I use A4-size paper? I can't get 8.5 x 11 paper in Pakistan.
You can use A4 paper. The forms you print must be clear and sharp, printed in black on white paper, with no holes or perforations, at least medium (such as used in most photocopiers) paper weight, and with a matte surface. Thermal paper, dye-sublimation paper, special inkjet paper, and other shiny papers are not acceptable. You can download the passport applications forms you'll need at http://travel.state.gov
Should I staple one of the two photos needed for a passport to the application form?
No, don't staple them. Just write the applicant's name on the back of the photos with a felt tip pen (ball point can press through and mar the picture) and include them with the application.
On the passport application form it asks for an address to mail the passport to. What should I write?
Complete this item with a Pakistan address, either your home address or the address where you are staying.
On the passport application form it asks for a "permanent address." I live in Pakistan now, but may move back to the U.S. someday. What should I write?
It is up to you. If you reside in Pakistan, you can write your Pakistani street address. Complete this item with any address you consider to be your permanent address. This need not be in Pakistan or the U.S.
I live in Pakistan for the time being. What should I write on the passport application under "Departure Date?"
Departure Date is optional, so you can leave it blank if you wish.
I applied for passport in the U.S. but came to Pakistan before receiving the passport. Where can I call to ask about its status?
The Embassy does not have information on passport applications in-process in the U.S. Please call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778, a toll-free call. You can also email them at npic@state.gov.
BIRTH REGISTRATION
How do I register the birth of my child born in Pakistan?
Applications for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) are accepted by appointment only. Please call the Consular Section at the Embassy/Consulate to request an appointment or email us for an appointment at acs_islamabad@state.gov, acslahore@state.gov or acskarachi@state.gov
How much is the application fee?
The fee for the CRBA application is $65.00 (or equivalent Pakistani Rs)
The passport application fee is $82.00 (or equivalent Pakistani Rs)
You may call the ACS Unit for the daily exchange rate.
Who should attend the interview?
We recommend that both parents be present when completing the application for a CRBA and the child must be present at the time of the application.
What is the average processing time?
The average processing time for the CRBA, together with the passport is about two weeks.
What are the requirements?
For a list of basic and documentary requirements needed for the CRBA, and for additional information on the process, access the link below: http://islamabad.usembassy.gov/pakistan/birth_abroad.html
NOTARIAL SERVICE
How much is the notarial fee?
The notarial fee is $30 for the first consular seal and $20 for each subsequent consular seal on your documents.
Witnesses are not provided by the Embassy. If witnesses are required you will have to either bring them with you for the signing, or ask whether another client in the waiting room would be willing to act as your witness.
MARRIAGE
Can I get married at the US Embassy in Islamabad?
American diplomatic and consular officers are NOT permitted to perform marriages (Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations 52.1). Marriages abroad are almost always performed by local (foreign) civil or religious officials. As a rule, marriages are not performed on the premises of an American embassy or consulate. The validity of marriages abroad is not dependent upon the presence of an American diplomatic or consular officer, but upon adherence to the laws of the country where the marriage is performed.
Can the ACS Unit at the Embassy translate documents and “certify” translations?
Unfortunately, the ACS unit cannot translate documents nor “certify” other translations.
I am a U.S. citizen. I plan to marry a foreign national. We want to marry in the USA. What should I do to bring my fiancé to the United States?
Information on visas for fiancés of a U.S. Citizen is available at http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1315.html
I am a U.S. Citizen. I married a foreign national. How do I file a petition to bring my spouse to the U.S.?
Information on visas for Spouses of a U.S. Citizen is available at http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1315.html
TAXES
Who do I contact for help with my taxes/where can I file tax returns?
The U.S. Embassy/Consulates in Pakistan can only provide federal tax forms and publications. The Internal Revenue Service maintains a website at http://www.irs.gov. This website has links to IRS tax forms and publications, as well as general information.
I am a U.S. citizen working in Pakistan. Where can I get more information on tax- related issues?
Information on taxes for U.S. Citizens Living Abroad can be viewed at http://www.irs.gov/faqs/faq13-7.html
FEDERAL BENEFITS
I am a U.S. Citizen living in Pakistan. Can I receive Federal Benefits here?
It is possible to receive Federal Benefits in Pakistan. To receive Social Security, you need to apply to the Social Security Administration. You can either pick-up an application packet from the American Citizen Services or request for one via email at acs_islamabad@state.gov. After completing the requirements, you can submit the application packet directly to Social Security Administration’s Regional Office in Manila, Philippines. All information required, will be included in the application packet.
I am currently receiving Social Security/other Federal benefits in the U.S. and would like to move to Pakistan, What should I do?
A Change of address for the Social Security Administration (SSA) require you to submit Form SSA-21 and a certified photocopy of your passport to SSA. Form SSA-21 is available at the American Citizen Services office or online at http://www.ssa.gov. The American Citizen Services office will also make a certified copy of your original passport if you bring it in. There is no fee for this service when it is being used for Social Security purposes.
How do I receive my benefits?
Most U.S. Treasury checks are sent first to the Embassy in Pakistan. The Embassy will then distribute the checks to the recipients
I would like to follow-up on the status of my check. How do I do that?
You can follow-up on the status of your check by directly contacting the SSA Regional Office in Manila, Philippines at SSAD.VARO.MANILA@ssa.gov or you can check with the ACS Unit by emailing us at acs_islamabad@state.gov, acskarachi@state.gov or acslahore@state.gov, and we will follow-up the status of the check for you.
For more information on Federal Benefits, please access the website of the Social Security Administration at http://www.ssa.gov
CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS
Where can I get a criminal record check?
The U.S. Embassy/Consulates in Pakistan cannot provide criminal record checks. U.S. citizens who need a criminal record check are advised to contact the FBI. For more information on Criminal Record Checks, please refer to http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1201.html
CERTIFICATES
How do I apply for a certified copy of consular birth, death and marriage records?
To obtain copies of these reports, view the link below: http://travel.state.gov/family/family_issues/divorce/divorce_590.html
MEDICAL FACILITIES
Where can I get information regarding Medical Facilities in Pakistan?
Medical facilities are available in Pakistan, but in some cases they do not meet U.S. standards. While the Embassy/Consulates are unable to provide any specific recommendations regarding doctors and medical providers in Pakistan, we have assembled a list of some of the major facilities in the area. You may email us at acs_islamabad@state.gov, acskarachi@state.gov or acslahore@state.gov to obtain more information.
LEGAL SERVICES
I need legal service in Pakistan. Who should I contact?
In an effort better to serve Americans in Pakistan, the U.S. Embassy/Consulates have compiled a list of Pakistani law firms willing to assist English-speakers with a wide variety of legal concerns. Each firm listed has English-speaking attorneys on staff. Firms outside of the capital may not be able to offer a wide range of English services. It may be necessary for Americans to hire their own translator. To view a list Attorneys in Pakistan, please access http://islamabad.usembassy.gov/pakistan/cs_legal_assistance.html, or email us at acs_islamabad@state.gov, acskarachi@state.gov or acslahore@state.gov.
VISAS
To obtain general information on how to apply for a visa the U.S. or check on an application, please access http://islamabad.usembassy.gov/pakistan/consular.html or email the Immigrant Visa Unit at pakivinfo@state.gov or the Non-Immigration Visa Unit at paknivinfo@state.gov.
For other questions and concerns not covered on this list, please do not hesitate to email us at acs_islamabad@state.gov. We will try to address your concerns as soon as possible.
GENERAL ASSISTANCE/TRAVEL TO PAKISTAN
Which American Consulate or Embassy can help me?
The general answer is whichever is closest to you. In addition to the Embassy in Islamabad, there are three Consulates in the country; Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar. It is usually best to contact the Embassy or Consulate nearest you, since that office will be in the best position to offer you help or information.
We strongly encourage you to check the list of Consulates in Pakistan before sending the Embassy an email. If your question involves a different consular district, the Embassy can respond to your e-mail only with information on how to contact the appropriate Consulate.
Do you have any advice on traveling to Pakistan?
Department of State issues a Consular information Sheet with information about travel. As events warrant, we update this sheet with public announcements and Travel Warnings on specific topics that may affect Americans traveling in Pakistan. You should also monitor television, radio and newspaper reports on events in Pakistan.
I was born in the United States. How do I get a certified copy of my birth certificate?
To obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate, you should contact the Department of Vital Records or other authority in the state or county in which you were born.
I am an American citizen born in Pakistan. When my parents registered my birth with the American Embassy, the Embassy issued a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. How can I get another copy of this Report?
You need to write to the Department of State to obtain a certified copy of the Report of Birth Abroad. The fee is $20 and the address is:
Correspondence Branch
Passport Services
Department of State
111 19th Street, N.W., Room 510
Washington, D.C. 20522-1705
Phone (202) 955-0207/0308
I need a copy of my birth certificate with an "apostille." What is an apostille, and how do I get one?
An apostille is a certification that is valid for use in a foreign country. Information regarding authentication or legalization of documents, including how to obtain an apostille, is available at http://travel.state.gov/law/notarial_authentication.html.
MISSING PERSONS
How can I locate a missing person in the United States?
We are unable to assist you in finding people in the United States. You may wish to use an on-line locator service.
If you are looking for a person in the U.S. who is not an American citizen, you may wish to contact the Embassy or Consulate of the country of which the person is a citizen.
DUAL NATIONALITY (AMERICAN/PAKISTAN)
I was born in Pakistan but am now an American citizen. Can I claim my Pakistani nationality?
Dual nationality with the United States was carried out under section 14(3) of the Pakistan Citizenship Act of 1951 which says that Pakistani citizens who acquired US citizenship and subsequently ceased to be citizens of Pakistan under section 14(1) of the Act shall be considered citizens of Pakistan and they shall be deemed never to have lost their Pakistani citizenship. They have the same rights, privileges, and obligations they had before acquiring U.S. citizenship. (Source: Pakistan Citizenship Act of 1951)
What effect will this have on my American citizenship?
Exercising your dual nationality will not result in the loss of your U.S. citizenship. Either country has the right to enforce its laws, particularly if the person later travels there. Most U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States. Dual nationals may also be required by the foreign country to use its passport to enter and leave that country. Use of the foreign passport does not endanger U.S. citizenship.
CUSTOMS – BRINGING ITEMS INTO THE UNITED STATES
Where can I find information on the duty-free allowances for taking goods to the United States?
U.S. Customs and Border Protection controls duty-free allowances on goods brought into the United States. (For more general information see: Clearing Goods Through U.S. Customs)
CHILDREN'S ISSUES
We would like to adopt a Pakistani child. Where can we find information on the procedures to follow?
To adopt a child, you must comply with the requirements of both Pakistani and American law. Please be advised that you must follow the procedures of both governments. Circumventing these requirements can invalidate an adoption and result in criminal penalties in both the United States and Pakistan.
I believe that my ex-spouse has illegally taken our children from the United States to Pakistan. What can I do to have them returned to the U.S.?
You may have recourse under the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction. Pakistan and the United States are parties to this treaty, which provides certain remedies in these types of disputes. In its website http://travel.state.gov/family/abduction/abduction_580.html, International Parental Child Abduction, the State Department's Office of Citizens Consular Services provides information on how to invoke the Hague Convention, including an application form.
You may also wish to contact the State Department's Office of Children Issues for further information.
WORKING IN PAKISTAN
Do I need a visa to work in Pakistan?
Yes, Americans who wish to work in Pakistan must have an employment visa. For more information, contact the Pakistan Embassy or Consulate in the United States nearest you. Relevant details of visa policy are now available on Ministry of Interior website http://www.interior.gov.pk/
How can I find a job in Pakistan?
The U.S. Embassy does not maintain information on employment opportunities in Pakistan.
Can I work in the U.S. Embassy or Consulates?
In general, there are few direct hire employment opportunities available to U.S. citizens in the U.S. Embassy or the Consulates. American embassies and consulates are staffed by career Foreign Service personnel who have qualified for appointment through competitive entrance examinations, and who agree at the time of their appointment to serve anywhere in the world.
Occasionally, a need for special skills arises which is met by the appointment, for a limited period of time, of a highly specialized individual who may serve in the area of his specialty. Such situations occur very infrequently and the probability of obtaining such employment is remote. Any available appointments are posted on this website under job opportunities. Check out the State Department's Personnel Office for more information.
LEGAL AND BUSINESS MATTERS
Does the Embassy have information on how to start or build a business in Pakistan?
The U.S. Foreign Commercial Service, a part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has a number of resources and services to foster American business interests in Pakistan. Among the services available are: access to specialists familiar with your industry, market research, sector analysis, pre-arranged appointments with targeted businesses, and international company profiles.
I have a legal problem in Pakistan. Can the Embassy represent me in court?
No. The U.S. Embassy cannot represent American citizens in court nor advise them on legal matters. Instead, you may wish to consult with an attorney in Pakistan, who can provide advice on your options and remedies within the Pakistani legal system.
For lists of local lawyers in other locations, contact the Embassy or nearest Consulate.