Foreign travel advice

Pakistan

Warning FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Pakistan.

Health

Before you travel check that: 

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number 

Dial 1122 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip: 

Polio vaccination programme 

Pakistan is rolling out a widespread Polio vaccination programme in an effort to eradicate Polio. You should provide proof of Polio vaccination if asked by a vaccination team. Any exemption due to a medical condition needs to be supported by a medical certificate issued by recognised health authority  

Altitude sickness 

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro

Bottled water 

Take care when buying bottled water and follow advice on TravelHealthPro. A recent Pakistan government report on bottled water found that a number of bottled water brands were contaminated. 

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro

Medical supplies may be difficult to find in Pakistan due to restrictions on imported goods.   

Healthcare in Pakistan 

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Pakistan where some staff will speak English. 

The standard of local medical facilities is lower than in the UK, especially in remote areas. Private medical care is expensive but available in all major cities. Specialised treatment for psychiatric illnesses may not be available outside major cities.  

COVID-19 healthcare in Pakistan 

Contact the COVID-19 helpline on 1166 if you have symptoms.

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro