Are you thinking of going to the U.S. from Pakistan ? Whether it’s to meet your loved ones, begin your studies, or just see the bright lights of New York, applying for a U.S. visa can feel kind of stressful. There are long forms to fill out, documents to arrange, interviews to prepare for… and let’s not forget the visa fees. It’s easy to feel confused or even nervous.

That’s exactly why we’ve put this guide together, no embassy-style wording, no confusing steps, just simple, clear, and updated information. We’ll walk you through the latest U.S. visa types, how much it costs from Pakistan, and the full process in a way that makes sense. Plus, we’ll point out common mistakes so you don’t make them.

Why Visit the USA from Pakistan?

Every year, thousands of Pakistanis apply for a U.S. visa — each with their own story. Maybe it’s a student heading to Harvard. A daughter flying out to visit her khala in Houston. Or a businessman attending a tech event in Silicon Valley. From education and tourism to family visits and medical care, the U.S. draws people from all over Pakistan.

Behind every application there is a dream. Because for many, a visa isn’t just about travel, it’s about opening doors, or building a better future. The process can be long and sometimes tiring. But for most, that small stamp on a passport means something much bigger than just a journey  it’s the start of something life-changing.

Types of US Visas for Pakistani Citizens

Now, before you check the Pakistan visa fee for the USA, it’s important to know which visa you’re applying for. Different types = different prices and paperwork.

Here are the main categories:

Visa Type	Purpose
B1/B2	For business or tourism (e.g., vacation, meeting relatives)
F1	Student visa (for studying at a US college/university)
H1B	Work visa for skilled professionals (IT, engineering etc.)
J1	Exchange visitor visa (scholarships, internships, cultural exchange)
IR/CR	Immigrant visas (family reunification, marriage-based etc.)

Pakistan to America Visa Price in 2025

Here’s what you really came for: How much does a US visa cost in 2025 from Pakistan?

Visa Type	Fee (USD)	Fee (PKR Approx.)	Notes
B1/B2 (Tourist/Business)	$185	PKR 52,000	Non-refundable
F1 (Student)	$185	PKR 52,000	SEVIS fee additional
H1B (Work Visa)	$205	PKR 57,500	Additional forms required
J1 (Exchange)	$185	PKR 52,000	SEVIS fee also applies
Immigrant Visas	$325+	PKR 91,000+	Varies by type

Additional Costs for H1B:

• $500: Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee
  
• $4,000: Public Law 114-113 Fee (for some employers with 50+ employees)

Immigrant Visa Fees:

• Family-based immigrant visa: $325
  
• Employment-based can go up to $720

Visa fees are subject to change. Always confirm with the official U.S. Visa Fee Page before applying.

Exchange rate used: USD 1 ≈ PKR 280 (as of June 2025),but currency rates fluctuate frequently. That’s why always check updated rates before paying.

For the latest exchange rates, check State Bank of Pakistan or XE.com.

Also, don’t forget:

SEVIS Fee:

F1 Students:

• $350 (general)
  
• $220 (certain government-sponsored programs)
  

J1 Exchange Visitors:

• $220

MRV Fee is non-refundable — even if your visa is rejected.

Application Process for US Visa from Pakistan

Now that you know the fee, here’s a step-by-step of how to apply. The Pakistan visa fee for the USA is a fixed amount, but it won’t help you if your documents aren’t strong.

1. Complete DS-160 Form

This is the online application form. Take your time and double-check everything. Even a small mistake (like wrong spellings) can delay or even reject applications. .

 Fill here: https://ceac.state.gov/

2. Pay the Visa Fee

Use UBL, Allied Bank, any Standard Chartered Bank or online payment options available at the U.S. visa website.

 Keep the receipt safe, you’ll need it to schedule your interview.

3. Book Your Interview

You’ll book this online via https://www.ustraveldocs.com/pk

Choose:

• U.S. Embassy, Islamabad
• U.S. Consulate, Karachi
• Lahore (Limited appointment slots only)
  

4. Attend Biometrics + Interview

Your fingerprints will be taken at a VAC center, followed by a face-to-face interview. Dress neatly, answer honestly, and bring all documents.

How Long Does It Take?

• B1/B2 can take 2-6 weeks (or longer if administrative processing is required). 
• H1B/F1 may take 1-3 months due to additional checks.

You can track your case on the CEAC site: https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC/

In urgent cases (e.g., medical or funerals), you can request an emergency appointment but you’ll need proper documents.

Pakistan Visa Fee from USA (Reverse Case)

Now, what if someone from the U.S. wants to visit Pakistan?

You’ll apply through Pakistan’s online e-visa system:
  Pakistan Visa

Visa Type	Fee (USD)	Processing Time
Tourist Visa	$60-$90 (e-visa)	3-5 working days
Business Visa	Starts at $100, but varies by duration/multi-entry.	10-15 days
Family Visa	$60-$90	3-5 days

Visit Apply for Pakistan e-Visa for exact fees.

You can pay online with a credit card. Just upload your passport scan, photo, and invitation letter (if applicable).

Tips for a Successful US Visa Application

Many applicants say the real challenge isn’t the paperwork, it’s the interview. Based on experiences shared by students and families, what truly matters is how confidently and honestly you present your case.

 Show Strong Ties to Pakistan

Visa officers want to know: Will you return?
Bring:

• Job letter (with leave approval if employed).
  
• Proof of property ownership (registry/utility bills).
  
• Family documents (birth certificates, family photos).
  
• University admission letter (for F1)
  

 Be Honest in the Interview

Don’t memorize fake answers. If they feel you’re lying, you’ll get rejected, no matter how perfect your documents are.

 Bring Supporting Documents

Bank statements, sponsor letters, travel history everything.

Real-Life Story

24 years old Samar, from Lahore, applied for a U.S. student visa in 2023 with no travel history, samar told us:

“My father feared rejection. But I had everything ready, SEVIS paid, admission letter, financial proof. I spoke honestly in the interview. The officer smiled and said, ‘You’re approved.’ ”

Her case shows the importance of complete documents, paid SEVIS fee before interview, and genuine answers.

FAQs

How much is the visa fee from Pakistan to the USA?

 It’s $185 for most non-immigrant visas (about PKR 52,000 as of June 2025).

Is the visa fee refundable if rejected?

 No. The MRV fee is non-refundable.

How do I pay the US visa fee in Pakistan?

 Through approved banks like UBL, Allied Bank, or via online banking. 

How long does it take to get a US visa from Pakistan?

 Around 2–3 weeks, but it can vary depending on the case.

Conclusion 

Getting a US visa from Pakistan can feel tough, we’ve all heard stories.The fee isn’t low, the process takes time, and the interview can make you a bit nervous. But honestly, if you’re ready and just speak the truth, half your work is already done.

Just make sure you know which visa you need, pay the fee properly, and stay calm while getting ready for the interview. And if you’re unsure about anything, ask someone who’s been through it to just stay away from those “agents” who make big claims for money. Stay real, stay hopeful it works out more often than you think.

📌 Useful Links:

• U.S. Embassy Islamabad
  
• Apply Online: DS-160
  
• Visa Fee Details – Official
  

Disclaimer

Visa fees and rules can change anytime. We’ve shared the latest info here, but it’s always smart to double-check with official websites like the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan, travel.state.gov, or MOFA Pakistan before you apply.