Arriving at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport follows a fixed order: immigration, baggage reclaim, then customs through the green or red channel, and you come out into the arrivals hall. Overseas Pakistanis on a NICOP or Pakistani passport use the same process as other citizens, with a One Window Facilitation Desk available for help. Plan on an hour or more from landing to the kerb at busy times.
This guide covers each step in order, then the practical extras: cash, a SIM, and how to get to your relatives' house.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Terminal | Jinnah Terminal; international flights use the East Satellite |
| Order | Immigration, baggage, customs channel, arrivals hall |
| Forms | Customs declaration form given out on the flight |
| Help | One Window Facilitation Desk for overseas Pakistanis, at international arrivals |
| Transport | Taxi counters in the arrivals halls, ride-hailing apps, private pickup |
| Runway | An upgraded runway reopened on 19 February 2026 |
Before you land
Fill in the customs declaration form given out on the flight. Airlines have distributed these since August 2022 and they ask about currency, gold jewellery and other restricted items. Have your passport, NICOP or POC ready, and any visa. Our customs guide explains what to declare, and NICOP and POC rules explain which card you need.
Immigration
The Jinnah Terminal Complex is Karachi's main terminal, with an East Satellite for international flights and a West Satellite for domestic ones. After the jet bridge, you follow signs to immigration, where the officer checks your documents.
Karachi does not yet have automated e-gates. Pakistan announced a plan to install about 100 e-gates across the airports at Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore over roughly two years, starting with Islamabad, and reports as of 2026 describe them as still being rolled out. Expect a staffed counter and a queue, and do not count on gates saving you time.
The Overseas Pakistanis Foundation runs One Window Facilitation Desks at Pakistan's international airports, at the arrival and departure areas, to help overseas Pakistani passengers. If you have a problem with a document or a bag, go there first.
Baggage and customs
After immigration you collect your bags. Trolleys are free, and porters are available if you want one, so agree on any payment first.
You then reach the customs channels. The green channel is for passengers with nothing restricted and nothing over the allowance. The red channel is for anything dutiable or restricted. If you are carrying new electronics, more than a few gifts, gold or large amounts of cash, use red and declare it.
Cash, SIM and ride
Cash. Currency exchange counters operate in both arrivals and departures, and several banks have counters. Rates at the airport are generally poorer than in the city, so change only what you need for the first day. Foreign currency of US$10,000 or more must be declared. See money in Pakistan.
SIM. Operators sell SIMs at the airport, but you need identification and a fingerprint scan. If you want to use your own phone on a local SIM, register it with PTA; see our phone registration guide. If you do not want a local SIM, an eSIM can be installed before you land.
Getting to the city. Reservation counters for taxis are in the arrivals halls and open around the clock. Ride-hailing apps work at the airport, but pickup points change, so follow the in-app directions. Agree the fare before you set off, and be aware there may be an airport surcharge. Buses run along Shahrah-e-Faisal, but with luggage and small children a taxi or a private pickup is easier.
If relatives are collecting you, arrange a meeting point rather than expecting them to find you in the crowd, and warn them the wait may be longer than the flight status suggests.
Is it worth arranging a pickup?
For a first night in Karachi, especially with children, elderly parents or a late-night arrival, a pickup arranged in advance is worth it. If you know the city, an app ride is fine. Our guide to day trips from Karachi and weekend getaways may help once you have landed, and our complete guide for overseas Pakistanis covers the rest of the trip.
Frequently asked questions
Which terminal do international flights use at Karachi?
The Jinnah Terminal, on its East Satellite for international flights.
Does Karachi airport have e-gates?
Not yet, as of 2026. A rollout of about 100 e-gates across three airports began with Islamabad and is still in progress.
What is the One Window Facilitation Desk?
A desk run for overseas Pakistanis at international airports, at arrivals and departures, to help with problems during travel.
Can I change money at Karachi airport?
Yes, there are exchange counters at arrivals. Rates are usually worse than in the city, so change a small amount.
How do I get from Karachi airport to the city?
Taxi counters in the arrivals halls, ride-hailing apps or a private pickup. Confirm the fare first.
