June 9, 2004

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Pakistan is a developing country. In October 2002, Pakistan held the first national and provincial assembly elections since the October 1999 coup. A new Parliament and Prime Minister took office, although Pakistani President General Pervez Musharraf and the military continue to play a significant role in the government.

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: All U.S. citizens traveling to Pakistan for any purpose are required to have valid U.S. passports and Pakistani-issued visas. Further information on entry requirements can be obtained from the Embassy of Pakistan, 2315 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC, 20008, telephone (202) 939-6295 or 6261, Internet home page: http://www.embassyofpakistan.org/. Travelers may also contact one of the Consulates General of Pakistan located at 12 East 65th St., New York, NY 10021, telephone (212) 879-5800, fax (212) 517-6987, or 10850 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1100, Los Angeles, CA 90024, telephone (310) 441-5114, fax (310) 441-9256. If a traveler plans to stay longer than the time listed on the visa, he or she must extend the stay with the local passport office of the Ministry of Interior.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of parentage or permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

DUAL NATIONALITY: In addition to being subject to all of Pakistan's laws affecting U.S. citizens, individuals who also possess the nationality of Pakistan may be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on citizens of that country. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.

SAFETY AND SECURITY/AREAS OF INSTABILITY: A number of extremist groups within Pakistan continue to target American and other Western interests, high-level Pakistani government officials, as well as members of minority indigenous groups. Bombings and assassinations continue to occur throughout Pakistan. Two unsuccessful assassination attempts against President Musharaff in December 2003 resulted in 15 deaths and dozens of injuries. Two Americans were killed and several more were injured in a bombing at an Islamabad church frequented by Westerners in March 2002 and an American news reporter was kidnapped and killed in Karachi in January 2002. The U.S. Consulate General in Karachi sustained attacks in June 2002 and February 2003. A large truck bomb was defused outside the consulate in Karachi in March 2004. Americans are urged to avoid congested areas where terrorists could approach their vehicles. Rallies, demonstrations and processions occur from time to time throughout Pakistan on very short notice and have often taken on an anti-American or anti-Western character. Karachi and the southern parts of Punjab province have experienced protracted political or sectarian violence that poses a potential danger to American travelers. During the Islamic religious observance of Moharram, sectarian rivalry and violence often increase. Family feuds are frequently fatal and may be followed by retaliation.

Women should dress conservatively (arms and legs covered) and should not walk around alone. It is not wise for anyone to travel in the streets late at night. Travelers to Pakistan should attempt to maintain a low profile, blend in, keep aware of their surroundings, and seek security in the traveler's family or sponsoring organization.

For the latest security information, Americans abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website at http ://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings including the current warning for Pakistan, and Public Announcements can be found.

Up-to-date information on security in Pakistan may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-317-472-2328. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays.)

Northern Areas - Visitors wishing to trek in Gilgit, Hunza, Chitral and the upper Swat valley should use only licensed guides and tourist agencies. While overall crime is low, there have been occasional assaults on foreign visitors.

Northwest Frontier Province – The Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) between the Northwest Frontier Province (NWFP) and the Afghan border, and certain areas within NWFP, are designated as tribal areas and are not subject to normal government jurisdiction. The Government of Pakistan requires all citizens of countries other than Pakistan and Afghanistan to obtain permission from the Home and Tribal Affairs Department prior to visiting these tribal areas. The permit may stipulate that an armed escort must accompany the visitor. Even in the settled areas of the NWFP there is occasional ethnic, sectarian, and political violence, as well as anti-foreign rhetoric. Members of the Taliban and Al-Qaida are known to be in FATA, and may also be in the settled areas. Foreigners should avoid demonstrations and areas in which violence is known to occur.

Kashmir - While direct military hostilities between India and Pakistan across the Line of Control between the parts of Kashmir they administer have ceased, militant groups engaged in a long-running insurgency in the Indian-administered part of the state continue to have bases and supporters in Pakistan-administered Azad, Jammu and Kashmir. Most of these groups are anti-American, and some have attacked Americans and other westerners. Many areas are restricted and require a permit from the Ministry of Interior. The State Department recommends strongly against travel to this area. Those Americans who feel they have urgent business there should contact the Embassy for further guidance.

Punjab Province - Sectarian violence has decreased considerably in recent years, although there continue to be isolated attacks on places of worship of all faiths. Christian churches, particularly in Punjab, have been targeted. Three people were killed in Daska on Christmas Day 2002, and 17 were killed in Bahawalpur in October 2001. As a precaution against possible dangers resulting from sectarian violence, U.S. citizens are cautioned to avoid public transportation and crowded areas. The Wagah border crossing into India near Lahore remains open (from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. ) daily for travel to and from India if the passport holder has a valid visa for both countries. Travelers are advised to confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel.

Sindh Province – In Karachi and Hyderabad, there has been recurring violence characterized by random bombings and shootings as well as several incidents of kidnapping for ransom. Americans and other Westerners continue to be the target of violence. The U.S. Consulate in Karachi has been the target of several major terrorist attacks or attempts in recent years. See the first paragraph of this (Safety and Security/Areas of Instability) section for more information regarding security incidents in this region. See also the Section on Registration/Embassy and Consulate Locations for instructions on contacting the Embassy or Consulates for emergency assistance.

In rural Sindh Province, the security situation is hazardous, especially for those engaged in overland travel. The Government of Pakistan recommends that travelers limit their movements in Sindh Province to the city of Karachi.

Baluchistan Province - The province of Baluchistan, which borders both Iran and Afghanistan, is notorious for narcotics and other forms of cross-border smuggling. Members of the Taliban and Al Qaida are also believed to be present there. Armed battles between clans are frequent. Because the provincial police presence is limited, travelers wishing to visit the interior of Baluchistan should consult with the province's Home Secretary. Advance permission from provincial authorities is required for travel into some areas. Local authorities have detained travelers who lacked proper permission. Quetta, the provincial capital, has experienced serious sectarian violence that has led to gun battles in the streets and the imposition of curfews. Terrorist rocket attacks against Pakistani government installations have also been reported throughout 2003 and 2004.

Returning Americans of Afghan origin are sometimes targets for harassment or extortion by the local populace and even by police, local immigration and customs officials, especially if they do not have a well-established family structure in Pakistan.

CRIME: Crime is a serious concern for foreigners throughout Pakistan. Carjackings, armed robberies, house invasions, and other violent crimes occur in the major urban areas. Petty crime, especially theft of personal property, is common throughout Pakistan.

American travelers to Pakistan are strongly advised to avoid traveling by taxis and other forms of public transportation to and from the airport. Americans are urged to have members of their host organizations or families meet them at the airport.

The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain how funds can be transferred. Although the investigation of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State pamphlets, A Safe Trip Abroad and Tips for Travelers to South Asia, for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlets are available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

MEDICAL FACILITIES: Adequate medical care is available in major cities in Pakistan but is limited in rural areas. With the exception of the Agha Khan Hospital in Karachi, Doctors' Hospital in Lahore, and Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, Americans may find hospital care and cleanliness below U.S. standards. Medical facilities require prepayment and do not accept credit cards.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm that their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: Water is not potable anywhere in Pakistan and sanitation in many restaurants is inadequate. Stomach illnesses are common and can be life-threatening. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers from the United States at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax: 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization's website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning traffic safety and road conditions in Pakistan is provided for general reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Traffic in Pakistan moves on the left, opposite of that in the U.S. In addition to this source of potential confusion, travel by road in Pakistan has a variety of other risks. Roads are crowded, drivers are aggressive and poorly trained, and many vehicles, particularly large trucks and buses, are badly maintained. Roads, including most major highways, also suffer from poor maintenance and often have numerous potholes, sharp drop-offs and barriers that are not sign-posted. Extreme caution should be exercised when traveling at night by road since many vehicles do not have proper illumination or dimmers nor are most roads properly illuminated or signed. Driving without experienced local drivers or guides is not recommended.

For additional information about road safety, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Pakistan's civil aviation authority as Category 1 -- in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Pakistan's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact DOD at 618-229-4801.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Pakistani customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Pakistan of items such as firearms, pornographic material and alcohol. An import permit and health certificate are required for animals. There are also restrictions on leaving Pakistan with antiquities or animals. It is advisable to contact the Pakistani Embassy in Washington, DC or the nearest Pakistani consulate for specific information regarding customs requirements. In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal, and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found at http://www.ustr.gov/reports/2003/special301.htm.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Pakistani laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Pakistan are strictly enforced. Long jail sentences are frequently imposed and large fines are assessed in some cases. Legislation passed in 1994 makes drug trafficking offenses punishable by death. Under the PROTECT Act of April 2003, it is a crime, prosecutable in the United States, for U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens to exploit children sexually via pornography, the Internet or other means or to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a person under the age of 18 in a foreign country, regardless of whether there was intent.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Pakistan is largely a cash economy. Personal checks are not commonly accepted. Most Pakistanis do not use checking accounts for routine transactions. Outside of major cities and tourist destinations, credit cards and travelers' checks are generally not accepted, and there have been numerous reports of credit card fraud. There are bank branches as well as registered money-changers in all international airports. ATMs can be found in major airports. English is widely spoken by professional-level airport staff. It is best to avoid public transportation. For security reasons, U.S. Embassy employees are prohibited from using taxis or buses.

CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747. This number is available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Callers who are unable to use toll-free numbers, such as those calling from overseas, may obtain information and assistance during these hours by calling 1-317-472-2328.

REGISTRATION/EMBASSY AND CONSULATE LOCATIONS: American citizens living in or visiting Pakistan are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan and obtain updated information on travel and security within Pakistan. They are located at the following addresses:

-- The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad is located at Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, telephone (92-51) 2080-0000; consular section telephone (92-51) 2080-2700, fax (92-51) 282-2632, website http://islamabad.usembassy.gov/.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Karachi, located at 8 Abdullah Haroon Road, closed its public operations indefinitely due to security concerns. U.S. citizens requiring emergency assistance should call the consular section in Karachi. The telephone is (92-21) 568-5170 (after hours: 92-21-568-1606), fax (92-21) 568-0496, website http://karachi.usconsulate.gov/.

-- The U.S. Consulate in Lahore is located on 50-Empress Road Sharah-E-Abdul Hamid Bin Badees, (Old Empress Road) near Shimla Hill Rotary, telephone (92-42) 636-5530, fax (92-42) 636-5177, website http://lahore.usconsulate.gov/. Email address: amconsul@brain.net.pk.

-- The U.S. Consulate in Peshawar is located at 11 Hospital Road, Cantonment, Peshawar, telephone (92-91) 279-801 through 803, fax (92-91) 276-712, web site http://Peshawar.usconsulate.gov/.

The normal workweek in Pakistan is Monday through Saturday, with a half-day worked on Friday. The U.S. Embassy and consulates are open Monday through Thursday, with a half-day on Friday.

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This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Pakistan dated May 23, 2003, to update sections on Country Description, Dual Nationality, Safety and Security/Areas of Instability, Crime, Medical Facilities, Other Health Information, Traffic Safety and Road Conditions, Customs Regulations, Criminal Penalties, Children's Issues, and Registration/Embassy and Consulate Locations.

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