
A. Enlist in the Pakistan Army (PMA Long Course)
The same is true for officers in the Pakistan Navy and Air Force.
Through internal job postings or intelligence tests (usually coded or confidential via FPSC or MOD jobs),
ISI occasionally employs civilians.
These positions could look like:
Pay attention to the official FPSC/MOD portals and https://recruitments.com.pk
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | A minimum bachelor’s degree is required. A master’s degree is preferred for CSS route. |
| Age Limit | 18–28 years (varies depending on the recruitment route) |
| Nationality | Must be a citizen of Pakistan |
| Physical Fitness | Strong physical and medical fitness is required (especially for armed forces route) |
| Skills Needed | Intelligence analysis, critical thinking, discretion, patriotism, physical and mental resilience |
ISI is very picky. Unlike a typical job, you won’t “apply to ISI” directly.
It assesses discretion, background checks, psychological profiles, and loyalty.
You will receive training in covert operations, analysis, surveillance, counter-intelligence, etc. if you are chosen.
| Rank | Basic Pay (BPS) | Monthly Estimate (PKR) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Captain | BPS-17 | Rs. 90,000 – 130,000 | Includes ISI and military benefits |
| Major | BPS-18 | Rs. 130,000 – 180,000 | Field duty allowance + risk allowance |
| Lieutenant Colonel | BPS-19 | Rs. 180,000 – 250,000+ | Includes bonuses + access to confidential funds |
| Designation | Grade | Monthly Salary (PKR) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assistant Director (ISI) | BPS-17 | Rs. 100,000 | Includes ISI risk allowance and special incentives |
| Deputy Director | BPS-18 | Rs. 160,000 – 200,000 | Receives classified field benefits |
| Director / Joint Director | BPS-19 / 20 | Rs. 200,000 – 300,000+ | Classified role with high-level perks and allowances |
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Secretive | ISI officers don’t wear public uniforms and operate in hidden roles. Missions are often life-threatening, including covert operations overseas. |
| Strategic | Their work directly impacts national diplomacy, internal security, and military operations. |
ISI aims to neutralize hostile foreign intelligence activities that could destabilize Pakistan and the region by carrying out covert operations.
By controlling flashpoints, this indirectly supports international security.

