- The best travel insurances for Pakistan
- Is it currently safe to travel to Pakistan?
- Is Travel Insurance Required for a Visa to Pakistan?
- Why take out travel insurance for Pakistan?
- What coverage is included in travel insurance for Pakistan?
- The cost of travel insurance for Pakistan
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Pakistan
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Pakistan?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Pakistan: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Pakistan covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unexpected travel-related incidents.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises reconsidering travel to Pakistan due to terrorism and civil unrest.
3. Key protection: While not mandatory for a visa, insurance is crucial due to limited local emergency services.
4. Healthcare cost: Private hospital care is recommended, with costs averaging around $200 to $500 per night.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Pakistan typically costs between $30 and $60.
6. Good to know: Verify your policy covers travel to areas with U.S. government travel advisories in effect.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Pakistan.
The best travel insurances for Pakistan
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.0M | Top choice for Pakistan, given the context. - high medical limit - emergency evacuation - repatriation |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.0M | Comprehensive for high-risk areas and cities. - 24/7 helpline - broad coverage - well-defined exclusions |
| Tourist Card | $0.5M | Suited for trips to urban areas. - practical medical cover - assistance in emergencies - value-focused |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.7M | Balanced protection for travel across Pakistan. - covers repatriation - wide activity scope - solid hospital fees |
| Globe Partner | $0.3M | Suitable for short business or family visits. - essential medical care - liability included - accessible offer |
| Globe Traveller | $0.5M | For basic needs during short stays. - essential health cover - quick reimbursement - limited ceiling |
- high medical limit
- emergency evacuation
- repatriation
- 24/7 helpline
- broad coverage
- well-defined exclusions
- practical medical cover
- assistance in emergencies
- value-focused
- covers repatriation
- wide activity scope
- solid hospital fees
- essential medical care
- liability included
- accessible offer
- essential health cover
- quick reimbursement
- limited ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Pakistan?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises US citizens to reconsider travel to Pakistan due to ongoing terrorism risks and potential for armed conflict, particularly in Balochistan Province, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, and near the India-Pakistan border.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: attacks by terrorist groups and armed violence are a persistent threat, especially in the Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. In January 2024, major road checkpoints and curfews were enforced in Quetta and Peshawar following security incidents.
- Health risks: polio, measles, and extensively drug-resistant typhoid are present throughout Pakistan, with poor health facilities outside major cities like Islamabad and Karachi. For example, emergency medical evacuation from rural areas may face significant delays and high costs.
- Legal constraints: strict regulations apply near border areas and on dual US-Pakistani nationals, who may face restrictions and limited consular assistance. Entry to sensitive zones, including the Line of Control, is prohibited and monitored by security forces.
- Cultural norms: modest dress is expected in public spaces, and eating in public during Ramadan daylight hours is considered inappropriate. Alcohol consumption is strictly regulated and largely prohibited.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Pakistan.
Is Travel Insurance Required for a Visa to Pakistan?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers to obtain a visa for Pakistan.
However, travel insurance is strongly recommended due to the limited quality of healthcare outside major cities and the high cost of medical evacuation or treatment in private hospitals. Unexpected illnesses or emergencies may require significant upfront payment or immediate transport to another country.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Pakistan. This high percentage is due to the elevated security risks, the challenging health environment, and the potential cost of emergency care.
Why take out travel insurance for Pakistan?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Pakistan.
In Pakistan, public hospitals outside Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi often lack modern equipment and are not recommended for foreigners due to overcrowding and limited capacities. Private clinics such as Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad provide better care, but their services can be costly. Severe cases or evacuations always require advance payments.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US if a severe event occurs.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Pakistan.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Shifa International Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | PKR 375,000 (about $1,350) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | PKR 230,000 (about $830) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | PKR 6,000,000 (about $21,700) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | PKR 940,000 (about $3,400) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What coverage is included in travel insurance for Pakistan?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital and medical costs for illness or injury during your stay. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for emergency transport to a suitable hospital or back to the US if necessary. Choose a minimum of $50,000 in coverage. |
| 🩺 Hospitalization | Covers expenses for treatment, surgeries, and extended stays in private clinics if admitted in Pakistan. Recommended minimum: $100,000. |
| 💼 Baggage and property | Compensation if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip. Recommended: at least $2,500 of baggage coverage. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interrupt | Refunds prepaid costs if you must cancel or cut your trip short due to emergencies. Recommended cover: $2,000–$5,000 per person. |
| 📞 Emergency assistance | 24/7 helpline offers medical advice, legal assistance, and logistics support in your language. Included in most comprehensive plans. |
| 🏡 Repatriation to the US | Pays for medical transport back to the US or, in a severe event, return of remains. We recommend coverage up to $50,000. |
| 😷 Infectious diseases | Covers care or quarantine if you contract diseases such as typhoid, polio, or COVID-19 in Pakistan. Check that your plan covers epidemic risks. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
Choose a minimum of $50,000 in coverage.
Recommended minimum: $100,000.
Recommended: at least $2,500 of baggage coverage.
Recommended cover: $2,000–$5,000 per person.
Included in most comprehensive plans.
We recommend coverage up to $50,000.
Check that your plan covers epidemic risks.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually offers limited benefits, low coverage amounts, and many exclusions. For full protection, choose a leading insurer and compare the best US options on HelloSafe, where you can subscribe online and get instant proof of coverage.
The cost of travel insurance for Pakistan
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $38 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $62 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $96 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $185 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance policy is determined by several key elements. Be sure to consider the traveler's age, the length of your trip, your destination, the desired coverage amount, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Keeping these factors in mind will help you select the most suitable and cost-effective plan for your needs.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Pakistan
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Pakistan while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Insurance costs increase with longer visits, especially in countries with high health and evacuation risks like Pakistan. | Limit your policy to actual travel dates and avoid extra days to reduce your total premium. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Older travelers often pay more due to higher health risks, which is significant with Pakistan’s limited medical facilities. | Heymondo does not increase prices for people over 62, so compare if in this age group. |
| 💼 Level of coverage | Pakistan requires high medical and evacuation limits due to healthcare gaps and potential emergencies. | Select policies with only essential medical and evacuation cover, and skip non-critical add-ons to lower costs. |
| 🏥 Medical limits | Expensive international care and medical evacuation are likely if hospitalized in Pakistan, especially outside big cities. | Choose plans with sensible deductibles and at least $100,000 in emergency and evacuation coverage. |
| ✈️ Activities covered | Extra coverage for risky activities (e.g., trekking or adventure) hikes premiums if you do not need them in Pakistan. | Avoid adventure sports add-ons if your itinerary does not include these specific activities. |
| 👫 Number of travelers | Family or group policies often offer lower per-person costs for complex destinations such as Pakistan. | Consider a group policy if traveling with family, as bundled plans can result in overall savings. |
| 📅 Purchase timing | Last-minute policies sometimes offer discounts, but ensure coverage starts before any visa or travel requirements apply. | Verify your policy start date matches your first travel day but do not purchase more coverage than required. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Pakistan?
It’s completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage, including credit card insurance or a private or public health plan, can protect you during a trip to Pakistan. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient for the specific risks in Pakistan. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Pakistan? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No medical care or emergency costs abroad. No evacuation or repatriation. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for care, medical evacuation, and 24/7 assistance in Pakistan. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Sometimes emergency care reimbursement up to $50,000. Rarely includes evacuation or repatriation. | Travel insurance reimburses $100,000+, covers medical evacuation, and trip issues directly in Pakistan. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Limited emergency medical ($10,000–$20,000), no trip cancellation, minimal baggage protection. | Travel insurance can offer $100,000+ medical, trip cancellation, and baggage up to $2,000 or more. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Premier) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $100,000, limited trip delay or lost baggage ($500–$1,000). Rare medical evacuation. | Travel insurance typically provides higher medical evacuation limits and full trip cancellation and interruption benefits. |
Example
While trekking in the Hunza Valley, Mark developed severe altitude sickness, requiring an emergency helicopter evacuation and hospitalization in Islamabad costing $15,000. His standard US health insurance denied the claim as it was out-of-network abroad, and his Bank of America debit card had daily limits, leaving him to cover the entire shocking bill.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Key situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness, may be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Pakistan?
Yes, U.S. citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Pakistan. You need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages for stamps. The visa should be obtained in advance, and additional entry requirements include a COVID-19 vaccination certificate for travelers aged 12 and above.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Pakistan?
Start by comparing different policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully check what each plan covers and excludes, focusing on protections relevant in Pakistan, such as medical evacuation and repatriation. Buy your chosen policy online. After payment, you will receive your insurance certificate, usually by email, for your records.
What medical emergencies are covered by travel insurance in Pakistan?
Most travel insurance policies cover hospital stays, doctor visits, medicine, and emergency treatments for accidents or sudden illnesses. Comprehensive plans often include coverage for infectious diseases prevalent in Pakistan, such as typhoid, measles, and polio. Always confirm coverage for evacuation to the nearest major hospital or back to the U.S. Costs may reach $100,000 or more.
Are natural disasters and civil unrest covered by travel insurance for Pakistan?
Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions due to natural disasters like earthquakes or floods, which are possible in Pakistan. Some plans also include civil unrest or terrorism-related incidents, although this varies between insurers. Check your policy’s fine print to ensure both types of coverage are included.
How much does travel insurance to Pakistan cost from the U.S.?
The price varies depending on your age, trip duration, and selected coverage, but comprehensive travel insurance usually costs between $60 and $150 per person for a two-week trip to Pakistan. Policies with higher coverage limits or hazardous activity protection may be more expensive. Compare plans to find the best balance of price and protection.
Can you buy travel insurance for Pakistan after your trip has started?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before departure from the United States. Some companies do allow you to buy insurance once you are already abroad, but coverage often starts after a waiting period and may exclude pre-existing incidents. For full protection, it is always best to purchase before traveling.
Do I need a visa to travel to Pakistan?
Yes, U.S. citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to Pakistan. You need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages for stamps. The visa should be obtained in advance, and additional entry requirements include a COVID-19 vaccination certificate for travelers aged 12 and above.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Pakistan?
Start by comparing different policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully check what each plan covers and excludes, focusing on protections relevant in Pakistan, such as medical evacuation and repatriation. Buy your chosen policy online. After payment, you will receive your insurance certificate, usually by email, for your records.
What medical emergencies are covered by travel insurance in Pakistan?
Most travel insurance policies cover hospital stays, doctor visits, medicine, and emergency treatments for accidents or sudden illnesses. Comprehensive plans often include coverage for infectious diseases prevalent in Pakistan, such as typhoid, measles, and polio. Always confirm coverage for evacuation to the nearest major hospital or back to the U.S. Costs may reach $100,000 or more.
Are natural disasters and civil unrest covered by travel insurance for Pakistan?
Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions due to natural disasters like earthquakes or floods, which are possible in Pakistan. Some plans also include civil unrest or terrorism-related incidents, although this varies between insurers. Check your policy’s fine print to ensure both types of coverage are included.
How much does travel insurance to Pakistan cost from the U.S.?
The price varies depending on your age, trip duration, and selected coverage, but comprehensive travel insurance usually costs between $60 and $150 per person for a two-week trip to Pakistan. Policies with higher coverage limits or hazardous activity protection may be more expensive. Compare plans to find the best balance of price and protection.
Can you buy travel insurance for Pakistan after your trip has started?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before departure from the United States. Some companies do allow you to buy insurance once you are already abroad, but coverage often starts after a waiting period and may exclude pre-existing incidents. For full protection, it is always best to purchase before traveling.
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