Foreign journalists and film crews need the right visa plus registration and accreditation with the Ministry of Information's External Publicity (EP) Wing. Under the Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026, an EP Wing NOC is required to report or film anywhere outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. The rules cover freelancers, fixers, camera crews, documentaries and films. Area NOCs may also apply.
- AccreditationEP Wing
- Filming NOCOutside 3 cities
- TemporaryUp to 3 months
- Permanent1 year
- CoversCrews, fixers, docs
- RulesAug 2026 guidelines
The 2026 Foreign Media Guidelines
In August 2026 the Ministry of Information introduced Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines that tighten oversight of foreign media. Key points reported:
- Foreign journalists, freelancers, fixers, camera crews and production companies must register and be accredited with the EP Wing.
- An EP Wing NOC is required to report or film anywhere outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi.
- Temporary accreditation lasts up to 3 months; permanent accreditation lasts 1 year.
- No fixed timeline is published for reporting NOCs, so apply early.
Which Visa Do You Need?
Do not film professionally on a tourist visa. Journalists apply for a journalist visa, which often carries extra travel restrictions, and production crews need the visa category the authorities specify for their project. See our Pakistan visa guide.
Area NOCs and Permits
An EP Wing NOC does not replace area rules. Filming in restricted trekking zones, near borders, or in Balochistan or AJK needs the relevant permits too. Drones need separate approval: see our drone guide.
What Not to Film
- Military sites, check posts and security personnel.
- Airports, bridges, dams and other infrastructure.
- People who have not agreed to be filmed, especially women.
Foreigners have been detained for photographing sensitive sites, so ask your fixer before filming anything you are unsure about.
Film and Documentary Support
We support film and documentary crews with fixers, logistics, locations and permit applications. See our services or tell us about your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to film in Pakistan?
Yes. Foreign media need EP Wing accreditation, and an EP Wing NOC to film outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi.
Can I film a documentary on a tourist visa?
No. Professional filming needs the right visa and accreditation.
Do YouTubers need a filming permit in Pakistan?
The 2026 guidelines cover freelancers and production work; if you are producing media professionally, check with the EP Wing before you travel.
Please note: NOC and permit rules in Pakistan change often and are applied locally, sometimes at short notice. Treat this guide as general information and confirm current requirements for your exact route before you travel. We check every route for our guests when we plan the trip.
