For Pakistani passport holders, travel to Europe has traditionally been constrained by strict Schengen visa requirements. In 2026, however, electronic visas and simplified entry systems are making short-term travel to select European and Europe-edge destinations more accessible.
According to the latest Henley Passport Index, Pakistan ranks joint 98th, with access to 31 destinations worldwide through visa-free entry, visa on arrival (VOA), or electronic travel authorisation (eTA). While core Schengen countries still require full visas, a small number of European and transcontinental destinations now offer Pakistani travellers a practical alternative.
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European countries with easier access
Currently, Albania and Moldova are the only fully European countries providing simplified entry options for Pakistani passport holders.
Albania allows Pakistani nationals to apply for an e-visa, removing the need for embassy visits. Located in the Balkans and outside the Schengen Area, Albania offers Mediterranean beaches, historic towns, and European city life at relatively lower costs, making it an attractive option for tourism and short business visits.
Moldova also provides access through an e-visa, making it one of Eastern Europe’s most accessible destinations for Pakistanis. With historic towns and cultural sites, Moldova offers a European experience without Schengen procedures, with travel typically routed via regional hubs such as Istanbul.
Europe-edge alternatives without Schengen visas
Several transcontinental and Europe-adjacent countries provide European-style travel experiences with simpler entry rules.
Turkey remains one of the most popular options. Pakistani travellers can apply for a Türkiye e-visa online, enabling visits to Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, and Mediterranean coastal cities. Frequent direct flights from major Pakistani cities further enhance accessibility.
Azerbaijan offers entry through an online e-visa, allowing Pakistanis to visit Baku and other cities without Schengen paperwork. Positioned at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, Azerbaijan combines modern urban development with historic architecture.
Georgia also provides an e-visa option. Cities such as Tbilisi and Batumi offer European-style urban life alongside mountain landscapes and cultural heritage, making Georgia a convenient short-term destination for tourism and business travel.
What this means for Pakistani travellers
While no Schengen country currently offers visa-free entry to Pakistani passport holders, destinations such as Albania, Moldova, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Georgia provide access to European culture, cities, and landscapes with reduced paperwork. These locations act as practical gateways for travellers seeking European-style experiences in 2026.
Beyond Europe, Pakistani passport holders continue to benefit from expanded global mobility, with visa-free, VOA, or eTA access to 31 countries across Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Oceania, according to the Henley Passport Index.
Travel experts advise checking entry fees, permitted stay duration, and visa validity before planning trips, as requirements vary by destination.
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