The time difference between Pakistan and the USA is of varying nature depending on the part of the United States due to the fact that the country has varying time zones. When you are discussing a topic with a family member or arranging an online meeting or even planning a trip, it is crucial to know the exact time difference.
This article provides a complete overview of Pakistan and US time zones, daylight saving time, and how to calculate the current time difference easily.
Pakistan Time Standard (PKT)
Pakistan observes Pakistan Standard Time (PKT) that is:
UTC +5 hours
Pakistan is not involved in the daylight saving time (DST) and thus the time is the same all the year round.
USA Time Zones Overview
There are six principal time zones along the mainland USA, two more zones are made up of Alaska and Hawaii.
| USA Time Zone | UTC Offset | Time Difference from Pakistan |
| Eastern Time (ET) | UTC –5 | Pakistan is 10 hours ahead |
| Central Time (CT) | UTC –6 | Pakistan is 11 hours ahead |
| Mountain Time (MT) | UTC –7 | Pakistan is 12 hours ahead |
| Pacific Time (PT) | UTC –8 | Pakistan is 13 hours ahead |
| Alaska Time (AKT) | UTC –9 | Pakistan is 14 hours ahead |
| Hawaii Time (HAT) | UTC –10 | Pakistan is 15 hours ahead |
Daylight Saving Time (DST) in the USA
The DST is observed in most regions of the United States. During DST:
- Clocks advance 1 hour during spring.
- Clocks move 1 hour back in fall
This is a 1 hour less difference in time. For example:
Eastern Time: Pakistan is 9 hours ahead of daylight saving time.
Pacific Time: It is 12 hours ahead of Pacific Time when it is DST in Pakistan.
How to Calculate Current Time Difference
To determine the time that currently exists between Pakistan and any US city:
- Name the time zone of the US city (ET, CT, MT, PT).
- Subtract 10-13 hours to be equal to Pakistan Standard Time (PKT) of mainland USA.
- Adjust when it is between March to November.
Example:
- New York (ET) 9:00 AM → Pakistan (PKT) 7:00 PM (during standard time)
- Los Angeles (PT) 9:00 AM → Pakistan (PKT) 10:00 PM (during standard time)
Importance of Knowing the Time Difference between Pakistan and the USA
It is vital to know the time difference between the USA and Pakistan because:
Business & Work Meetings: Booking calls with ease.
Travel Planning: Make correct flight and hotel bookings.
Family Friends: Keep in touch with family members in the USA.
Online Classes and Webinars: Attend live sessions punctually.
Pakistan and the USA time difference can be complex since it has various time zones, yet with the knowledge of UTC offsets, daylight saving, and basic calculation, it is easy to organize communication, traveling, or even online activities. This information will keep you informed and you will not miss any crucial events or calls.
