IMPORTANT UPDATE 2026: Pakistan Suspends "Free Visa" Scheme—What Travelers from Norway Need to Know

OSLO, January 12, 2026 – If you are planning a trip from Oslo to Pakistan in early 2026, you need to be aware of a critical change in immigration rules that came into effect on January 1, 2026.

At GoPakistan.no, our priority is ensuring your journey is smooth and hassle-free. Below is the essential breakdown of the new visa regulations and exciting news regarding Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) returning to European skies.

1. Major Visa Policy Change: "Visa Prior to Arrival" Suspended

As of January 1, 2026, the Government of Pakistan has suspended the Free "Visa Prior to Arrival" (VPA) scheme that was available to citizens of 126 countries, including Norway.

During late 2024 and 2025, Norwegian citizens could travel to Pakistan with a simplified, free approval process. This is no longer the case.

What This Means for You:

• Mandatory e-Visa: All Norwegian passport holders must now apply for a Standard Paid e-Visa before traveling.
• Processing Time: Unlike the instant VPA approvals of last year, the standard e-Visa can now take up to 7 working days to process. We strongly advise booking your tickets at least 2 weeks in advance.
• Documentation: You may once again need to provide proof of hotel booking or a sponsor letter/invitation from Pakistan to complete your application.
• Fees Apply: The fee waiver has ended. Be prepared to pay the standard visa fee (approx. $35–$60 USD depending on category) via the official NADRA portal.

     Travel Tip: Do not travel to the airport without a confirmed e-Visa grant. Airlines in Oslo may deny boarding if you only have the old "VPA" documentation.

2. Aviation News: PIA Resumes Key European Routes in March 2026

In a positive development for connectivity, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially announced the resumption of direct flights between London Heathrow and Lahore starting March 30, 2026.

This follows the lifting of the EASA ban and the planned resumption of Islamabad-London flights on March 29, 2026.

Why This Matters for Oslo Travelers:

While direct flights from Oslo are still being finalized, the restoration of PIA's UK hub is a massive step forward.

• Better Connections: It opens up reliable transit options for Norwegians traveling via London to Lahore and Islamabad.
• Increased Capacity: With PIA operating up to 7 weekly flights to the UK by the end of March, seat availability during peak seasons (Ramadan/Summer) is expected to improve.
• Future Direct Flights: The successful return to London paves the way for the potential restoration of the Oslo–Islamabad direct route later in 2026.

3. Book Your 2026 Travel with Confidence

With regulations changing and demand for flights increasing as we approach the spring season, professional guidance is more important than ever.

Whether you need help finding the cheapest flights from Oslo (Billige flybilletter) or navigating the new visa requirements, GoPakistan.no is here to help. We monitor daily updates from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority and the Embassy of Pakistan in Norway to keep you safe.

Need help with your booking? 📞 Call us: +47 22429500 📧 Email: post@airticket.no 📍 Visit: Oslo, Norway