Yes, a visa is required to travel from Pakistan to Canada.
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Do I need a visa for Canada from Pakistan?
Discover visa requirements for your trip
Pakistani citizens must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (visitor visa) for Canada, because Pakistan is not eTA-eligible. The application is filed online through IRCC, with biometrics taken at an authorised application centre.
Whether the trip is to visit family, for tourism or for business, Pakistani travellers must plan their Canadian visa before departure. As Pakistan is not eligible for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), the full visitor-visa process applies. A well-documented file proving your funds, your ties and the purpose of travel makes all the difference.
Do you need a visa?
Yes. Holders of a Pakistani passport must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly called a visitor visa, before entering Canada. The faster eTA does not apply to Pakistan. This visa covers tourism, family visits and short business trips.
How and where to apply
You apply online on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal: you create an account, complete the forms and upload your documents. After payment, a letter invites you to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at the visa application centre (VAC) in Pakistan. Confirm the service point and appointment procedure on canada.ca.
Documents and fees
Prepare a valid passport, the completed forms, compliant photos, proof of financial means (bank statements), a letter of invitation if needed and evidence of ties to Pakistan (employment, property, family). A processing fee and a biometrics fee apply; the exact amounts are published on canada.ca and should be confirmed at the time of payment, as they can change.
Processing and tips
Processing times fluctuate with the season and application volume, so use IRCC's processing-time tool for a current estimate and file well before your travel date. A complete, consistent file at the first submission speeds up the decision. Also check any health entry requirements before you travel.
Common mistakes
The most frequent error is providing insufficient proof of funds and ties, which often leads to a refusal on non-return risk. Watch for inconsistencies between the forms, the invitation letter and bank statements, and do not book non-refundable flights before the visa is granted. Also, do not confuse the eTA with the full visa required for Pakistan.
Official sources
- IRCC — Visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
- IRCC — Find out if you need a visa to visit Canada
- VFS Global — Canada visa application centres in Pakistan
Information verified on July 8, 2026.
Essential Canada information
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Frequently asked questions
Do you need a visa to travel to Canada from Pakistan?▾
Yes, a consular visa is required: applications are made at the embassy or consulate before departure (allowed stay: 6 months).
How long can you stay in Canada?▾
The tourist visa allows a stay of 6 months.
What other visa types exist for Canada?▾
Depending on the purpose of stay, Canada offers among others: Work Permit (employer-specific, LMIA), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker / CEC / FST), Home Child / Home Support Worker, Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), Student visa, Super Visa (parents/grandparents).
Data verified on 23/07/2026
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