Moving to Pakistan: taxes, residence and life
How to become tax resident in Pakistan: personal, dividend and corporate tax, 4 residence programmes, days needed, climate, safety and economy — compared with 194 countries.
Taxes
In Pakistan the top income tax rate is 45%, dividends are taxed at up to 15% and companies pay 29% corporate tax.
How to move and become tax resident
To become tax resident in Pakistan you need at least 183 days a year (183 days in tax year (Jul–Jun); or 120 days + 365 in prior 4 yrs). The typical route is None realistic (business visa): Business/work visa via local entity; no investor residence There are 4 open residence programmes in Pakistan — see the list below.
Living there
Karachi has a hot desert climate with winter highs around 25.9 °C and summer highs around 35 °C. The economy grew +2.7% in 2025; the IMF forecasts 3.6% for 2026. Its passport opens about 32 countries without a visa in advance. Security: 'Open war' with Afghanistan since Feb 2026; TTP & Baloch insurgencies; India tension.
Key facts
| Top income tax | 45% |
|---|---|
| Dividend tax | 15% |
| Corporate tax | 29% |
| Tax residence | after 183 days — 183 days in tax year (Jul–Jun); or 120 days + 365 in prior 4 yrs |
| Typical residence route | None realistic (business visa) — Business/work visa via local entity; no investor residence |
| Passport | visa-free or on arrival to 32 countries |
| Economic growth | +2.7% (2025), forecast 3.6% (2026) |
| Climate type | hot desert · 25.9° / 35° (Karachi) |
| War & conflict | war — 'Open war' with Afghanistan since Feb 2026; TTP & Baloch insurgencies; India tension |
| All natural hazards | 8.5/10 |
| Banking strength | 2.5/10 · B- |
| Property protection | 2.5/10 |
| Warm homes in winter | 5/10 |
Residence programmes in Pakistan
- Business / Investor Visa (multiple entry, up to 5 years) — entrepreneur
- Work Visa (employment) — employment
- Citizenship by Investment for Commonwealth citizens — Investment CHF 14'200
- Pakistan Origin Card (POC) — ancestry
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need to spend in Pakistan to become tax resident?
after 183 days. 183 days in tax year (Jul–Jun); or 120 days + 365 in prior 4 yrs Worldwide income
How much tax will I pay in Pakistan?
In Pakistan the top income tax rate is 45%, dividends are taxed at up to 15% and companies pay 29% corporate tax.
Which residence programmes does Pakistan offer?
Business / Investor Visa (multiple entry, up to 5 years); Work Visa (employment); Citizenship by Investment for Commonwealth citizens (CHF 14'200); Pakistan Origin Card (POC)
What is the usual way to move to Pakistan?
None realistic (business visa). Business/work visa via local entity; no investor residence
Compare with nearby countries
Afghanistan · Armenia · Australia · Azerbaijan · Bangladesh · Bhutan · Cambodia · China · Fiji · Georgia · Hong Kong · India
General information only — not tax, legal, immigration, investment or financial advice, and no client relationship. Figures are simplified, indicative and may be out of date. Always verify with the official authority and a licensed professional in the country concerned before acting. Partner links, if any, are marked and may earn us a fee.