How do I move to Pakistan from the UK?

To move to Pakistan from the UK, you need a valid British passport, a Pakistan e-Visa (apply via NADRA's online portal), and a relocation plan covering housing, banking, healthcare, and schooling. The full process typically takes 2-4 months.

How much does it cost to move to Pakistan from the UK?

A family of four can live comfortably in Pakistan on £1,200-£2,000 per month including rent, food, utilities, and schooling. Initial relocation costs (visa, flights, shipping, deposit) typically range from £3,000-£6,000.

Can British citizens live in Pakistan permanently?

British citizens can live in Pakistan long-term by obtaining a long-term visa, NICOP (if eligible through Pakistani heritage), or a work visa. Those with Pakistani-origin parents can apply for NICOP which grants indefinite stay.

What are the safest areas for British families in Pakistan?

The safest areas for British families include DHA (Defence Housing Authority) societies in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, Bahria Town gated communities, and cantonment areas like Wah Cantt. These have 24/7 security, controlled access, and large expat communities.

Do my children need a visa to move to Pakistan from the UK?

Yes, all British citizens including children need a visa to enter Pakistan. Children's visas are applied for the same way as adults — through the NADRA e-Visa portal. Children with a Pakistani-origin parent may be eligible for NICOP instead.

How long does it take to relocate from UK to Pakistan?

A full relocation from the UK to Pakistan typically takes 2-4 months. This includes visa processing (2-3 weeks), housing search (2-4 weeks), shipping belongings (4-8 weeks), and school admissions (2-6 weeks). Some families complete it in 6 weeks with professional help.

Welcome to Pakistan

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Complete UK → Pakistan Relocation Guide

Moving to Pakistan from the UK: The Complete 2026 Guide

Everything British families need to know about relocating to Pakistan — visa, housing, banking, healthcare, schooling, shipping, and cost of living. Based on real experience helping 500+ families make the move.

Book a £30 Consultation Cost of Living Calculator

7-10 days

Visa processing time

£1,200-£2,000

Monthly budget (family of 4)

4-8 weeks

Shipping time (sea freight)

4-5 hours ahead

Time zone difference

English widely spoken

Language

Pakistani Rupee (PKR)

Currency

The 6-Step Relocation Process

Follow these steps in order. Each one links to a detailed guide.

1. Sort Your Visa

Apply for a Pakistan e-Visa through NADRA's online portal. Processing takes 7-10 working days. If you have Pakistani heritage, apply for NICOP instead.

Visa Guide

2. Find Housing

Research safe areas like DHA, Bahria Town, or cantonment areas. Budget £300-£600/month for a 3-bedroom house. Consider a scouting trip before committing.

Housing Guide

3. Set Up Banking

Open a Roshan Digital Account online before you arrive. Meezan, HBL, and UBL all offer Shariah-compliant options for overseas Pakistanis.

Banking Guide

4. Arrange Healthcare

Get international health insurance before arriving. Register with a private GP. Pakistan has excellent private hospitals in major cities.

Healthcare Guide

5. Choose Schools

Research private schools in your chosen area. International schools follow British or American curricula. Apply early — admissions can be competitive.

Get Advice

6. Plan Your Move

Book flights, arrange shipping (sea freight takes 4-8 weeks), organise airport transfer, and book temporary accommodation for your first weeks.

Get Help

What Will It Cost?

Pakistan is 60-70% cheaper than the UK. Here's what a typical British family of four spends.

One-Time Relocation Costs

Visa fees (family of 4)£240-£400
Flights (4x economy)£1,500-£2,500
Shipping (sea freight)£800-£2,000
Housing deposit£600-£1,800
Total upfront£3,000-£6,000

Monthly Living Costs

Rent (3-bed house, DHA)£300-£600
Utilities£40-£80
Groceries£150-£300
Schooling (per child)£80-£250
Total monthly£1,200-£2,000

Get a Personalised Estimate

Essential Resources

Detailed guides for every aspect of your move.

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