COVID-19 Special Important Travel Notice By Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO)
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As countries respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including travel and border restrictions, the FCO advises British citizens not to travel internationally. However, it depends that any country or region may restrict travel without notice. If you live in the UK and are currently travelling abroad, it is best to return immediately because trade routes can still be used. Many airlines are suspending flights and many airports are closing, which prevents flights from taking off.
The Department of Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises British citizens not to make unnecessary international travel at this time. Pakistan’s current recommendations are still valid.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against travelling:
The area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province was formerly known as the Federally Administered Tribal Area
- Charsadda, Kohat, Tank, Bannu, Lakki, Dera Ismail Khan, Swat, Buner and Lower Dir in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.
- Peshawar and the southern provinces of the city, including road trips from Peshawar to Chitral or Chitral to Lowari Pass.
- Baluchistan province; including Quetta City, except the southern coast of Baluchistan
- Part of the Karakoram Highway (also known as Karakorum Highway or KKH) from Manshera to Chilas, passing through Batagram, Bisham, Dassu and Sazin.
- Near the control line
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises you not to make this important trip:
- The city of Arando in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the road between Mirkhana and Arando.
- The southern coast of Baluchistan province refers to the south side (including the N10 highway) and the N25 section from the N10 / N25 junction to the intersection Baluchistan / Sindh border (including the port city of Gwadar)
- Areas in the northern Sindh province, including Nawabshah
Currently, the business options for returning to the UK from Pakistan are very limited. The British government has organized private charter flights from Pakistan to return to British citizens and their immediate family members who normally live in the UK. In addition to the previously announced flights, other flights will depart from Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi from April 30.
Security Situation In Pakistan
In recent years, after the actions of the Pakistani government and security forces, Pakistan’s security situation has improved significantly. In 2018, the number of visits by British citizens to Pakistan was estimated at 484,000. Most visits went smoothly.
After the terrorist attack on Pulwama on February 14, 2019, there was serious tension between India and Pakistan, especially the entire line of control. Some airlines or airports still face restrictions. You must check with the airline for the latest information on the flight status before going to the airport for the flight to and from Pakistan.
Protests may occur in Pakistan without warning, and will quickly become violent. You should avoid demonstrations, crowds and public events.
Certain periods of the year may bring higher risks. During sacred times / religious holidays, the possibility of targeted attacks increases, including attacks against Western interests and religious minorities.
The terrorists are likely to try to launch an attack in Pakistan. There are high risks of terrorism, kidnapping and sectarian violence across the country, including major cities such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi. Foreigners, especially Westerners, can be directly attacked. You must be vigilant to avoid mass and public activities in Pakistan, including political gatherings and religious activities, and take appropriate safety precautions.
Densely populated and unsafe areas such as markets, shopping centres, hotels, restaurants, airports, public transportation, schools, and educational institutions may become the focus of attacks. You must always be vigilant in these areas and reduce exposure to the areas at greatest risk.
Pakistan is located in the main earthquake zone and is still vulnerable to more earthquakes, earthquakes, landslides and floods. Pay attention to earthquake safety procedures.
British Consultants in Pakistan
In some areas of Pakistan, the consulate’s support is very limited, and the FCO currently provides advice on all travel and other circumstances besides basic travel (as mentioned above). In some parts of Pakistan, consulate support is also very limited, where UNHCR officials apply to the Pakistani government for travel permits. Licensing cannot be guaranteed. In these areas, even in emergencies, the British High Commission’s ability to provide consular assistance may be limited or delayed. If you are abroad and need emergency assistance from the British government, please contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or High Commission.
The Overseas Business Risk service provides British companies operating abroad with information and advice on how to manage security, economic, political and business risks.
Please obtain complete travel and health insurance before travelling.
