TB Test for UK Visa in Pakistan 2026: Clinics, Cost & Process

If you are applying for a UK visa of more than six months from Pakistan — including a Student visa — you must take a tuberculosis (TB) test at a UKVI-approved clinic and include the certificate with your application. It is a simple, quick step, but it must be done at the right clinic, at the right time. Here is exactly how the TB test for a UK visa works in Pakistan in 2026.

Who needs a TB test for a UK visa?

Anyone who has been living in Pakistan and is applying to come to the UK for more than 6 months (180 days) must provide a TB test certificate. This covers virtually all Student visa applicants. Visits of 6 months or less do not require the test.

You must use an approved clinic — IOM

The UK only accepts TB certificates from Home Office-approved clinics. In Pakistan, these are run by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). A test from any other hospital or laboratory will not be accepted, no matter how reputable. IOM operates approved clinics in:

• Islamabad
• Lahore
• Karachi

You can book by contacting the IOM Pakistan call centre or through their appointments page. Always confirm the current, official clinic list on the gov.uk clinics-in-Pakistan page before booking.

What the test involves

• Adults and children aged 11 and over have a chest X-ray. If the X-ray is unclear, you may be asked for a sputum sample, which takes longer.
• Children under 11 normally have a clinical assessment by a doctor rather than an X-ray, unless there are symptoms.
• Pregnant applicants can request an X-ray with additional shielding, or opt for a sputum test instead.

The appointment itself usually takes around 3 to 4 hours. Bring your passport and passport-sized photographs, and check the clinic's current requirements when you book.

How much does the TB test cost?

The fee is typically around PKR 10,000–15,000 per person, payable at the clinic (cash or card). The exact amount is set by IOM and can change, so confirm it when booking. Each family member who needs the test pays separately.

How long does the certificate take, and how long is it valid?

Results are usually ready within 2 to 5 working days. If you are clear of infectious TB, you receive a certificate that is valid for 6 months from the date of your X-ray. You must apply for your UK visa before the certificate expires — so time your test to fall within six months of your planned application, not too early.

Step by step

• 1. Book an appointment at an IOM clinic in Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi.
• 2. Attend with your passport and photos; pay the fee.
• 3. Have your chest X-ray (or assessment for under-11s).
• 4. Collect your certificate within a few working days.
• 5. Include the certificate with your UK visa application, and apply within 6 months.

The TB certificate is one item on the wider UK Student visa documents checklist. If you are planning your move, start with our study in the UK from Pakistan guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a TB test required for a UK student visa from Pakistan?

Yes. Any visa of more than 6 months from Pakistan requires a TB test certificate from an IOM-approved clinic, which you submit with your application.

Where can I get the TB test in Pakistan?

Only at IOM-approved clinics in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. Certificates from other hospitals or labs are not accepted by UKVI.

How much does the UK visa TB test cost in Pakistan?

Typically around PKR 10,000–15,000 per person, paid at the clinic. Confirm the current fee with IOM when you book.

How long is the TB certificate valid?

Six months from the date of your chest X-ray. You must apply for your visa before it expires.

Do children need a TB test?

Children aged 11 and over have a chest X-ray. Children under 11 usually have a clinical assessment instead, unless symptoms are present.

Planning your UK Student visa from Pakistan? Global Pathways guides you through every step — CAS, funds, the TB test and the application itself — so nothing is missed. Book a free consultation.