Deported to Pakistan: Your Survival Guide
Housing, documents, healthcare, and community resources for deportees rebuilding life in Pakistan.
Choose Your Guide
Select a topic to get detailed, Pakistan-specific information.
Quick Facts
Career & Education
Career & Education in Pakistan
Practical income paths, training options, and job opportunities for people rebuilding in Pakistan. Verify locally before making decisions.
Top Job Opportunities
- โธTechnology โ IT exports are growing rapidly
- โธTextile and manufacturing โ Pakistan is a top textile exporter
- โธAgriculture โ cotton, wheat, rice, and fruit are major sectors
- โธConstruction โ active in major cities
- โธFreelancing โ Pakistan is consistently in top 5 globally
Remote Work Options
- โธFreelancing โ Pakistan ranks very high globally on Upwork/Fiverr
- โธIT and software development exports
- โธOnline tutoring and coaching
- โธDigital marketing for international clients
Small Business Ideas
- โธIT services or software agency
- โธOnline resale on Daraz.pk
- โธFood production and restaurant
- โธTextile or clothing resale
- โธImport/export facilitation
Teach English
English is Pakistan's official language alongside Urdu. Business English and IELTS coaching are high-value services, especially in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Online teaching platforms also work well from Pakistan.
Get TEFL certified โVocational Training
NAVTTC (National Vocational and Technical Training Commission) provides free vocational training across Pakistan. Hundreds of vocational institutes offer certified programs in IT, engineering, health, and trades.
Local Job Websites in Pakistan
Some links may be affiliate links. Information is educational โ verify with local employers, schools, and government agencies.
Family Visit Travel
Visiting Pakistan to See Family
Practical travel info for US-based family and friends visiting a loved one in Pakistan.
๐ฌ Airports to Fly Into
- โธAllama Iqbal International (LHE) โ Lahore
- โธJinnah International (KHI) โ Karachi
- โธIslamabad International (ISB)
๐ Getting Around
- โธCareem (app-based โ essential)
- โธOrange Line Metro (Lahore)
- โธDaewoo and Faisal Movers buses (intercity โ comfortable)
๐ Visa Rules
US citizens: eVisa available for tourism. Apply at visa.nadra.gov.pk. Usually processed in 48โ72 hours. Fee around $75.
Check visa requirements โ๐ก๏ธ Safety Tips
- โธPakistan has many safe tourist areas despite its international reputation
- โธNorthern areas (Hunza, Swat) are very welcoming and scenic
- โธAvoid border regions with Afghanistan and certain tribal areas
- โธRegister with US Embassy after arrival
- โธCoordinate with your family contact for all logistics
๐ฐ Currency
Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
๐ฃ๏ธ Language
Urdu (and English in official settings); many regional languages
๐ฑ eSIM
Airalo Pakistan with Jazz or Zong network
๐ก Travel Tip
Pakistan's northern areas (Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan) are amonโฆ
Some links may be affiliate links. Travel information is educational โ verify visa rules and safety with official government sources before booking.
Get a Free AI Case Assessment
Answer a few questions about your situation and get a personalized report about your options โ completely free and confidential.
Start Free Assessment โFrequently Asked Questions
What is a CNIC and how do I get one?โผ
The CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) is Pakistan's national ID, issued by NADRA. You apply at any NADRA office with your birth B-Form or prior identity records. The CNIC is required for SIM registration, banking, voting, passport, and all formal government transactions. Priority processing is available for a fee.
What are EasyPaisa and JazzCash?โผ
EasyPaisa (Telenor) and JazzCash (Jazz) are Pakistan's two most popular mobile wallets. They allow you to receive money transfers, pay bills, send money to others, and make purchases โ all via mobile phone. They are accessible even without a traditional bank account and have agents across Pakistan for cash-in and cash-out.
Is English useful in Pakistan?โผ
Yes โ English is an official language used in courts, government, higher education, and formal business. In major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, educated Pakistanis speak English fluently. U.S. English proficiency and cultural knowledge are assets for call center, BPO, and international business roles.
Is Karachi safe for a returnee?โผ
Karachi has historically had security challenges, though conditions have significantly improved since 2013. Certain neighborhoods carry more risk โ connecting with family and community to understand current safe areas is important. Many millions of people live and work in Karachi safely every day. Community networks (family, mosque, biraderi) are important for navigating the city.
Can I access the Sehat Sahulat Program?โผ
The Sehat Sahulat Program provides free hospitalization coverage for low-income Pakistani families at empanelled hospitals. Eligibility is based on socioeconomic status verified against NADRA records. Apply through a district health facility or the program's online portal with your CNIC.
Related Country Guides
Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws, policies, and conditions change frequently. Nothing on this page creates an attorney-client relationship. We use language like "may," "might," and "could" intentionally โ individual circumstances vary greatly and eligibility for any program or service depends on specific facts. Always consult a licensed attorney for legal advice specific to your situation. Deported Not Defeated is not a law firm.