Canada is a popular destination for Pakistanis seeking opportunities for education, work, or leisure. However, the visa application process can be complex. This ultimate guide provides a comprehensive overview of applying for a Canada visa from Pakistan.
Applying for a Canada visa requires careful planning and adherence to specific procedures. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, education, or employment, understanding the visa application process is crucial.
Types of Canada Visas for Pakistani Passport Holders
Visit Visa
A visit visa allows individuals to travel to Canada for tourism, to visit family or friends, or to attend business meetings.
Study Visa
For Pakistani students aspiring to pursue education in Canada, a study visa is required. This visa permits individuals to enroll in Canadian educational institutions.
Work Visa
Individuals seeking employment opportunities in Canada need to obtain a work visa. This visa allows them to work legally in the country for a specified period.
Eligibility Criteria for Canada Visa for Pakistan
Each type of Canada visa has specific eligibility criteria. Applicants must meet requirements related to financial stability, ties to their home country, and intention to return after the visa expires.
Canada Visa Documents Required for Pakistani Passport
Applicants must submit various documents, including a passport, photographs, proof of financial support, and a letter of invitation (if applicable), to support their visa application.
- Complete visa application form
- Valid original passport with at least 6 months validity
- Copies of all previous/expired passports
- Photocopy of the current passport
- Copy of Nadra issued CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Employment verification letter
- Copy of “B” form (if traveling with children)
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Proof of flight reservation
- Confirmation of hotel reservation
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Sponsor’s bank statements (if applicable)
Online Apply for Canada Visa from Pakistan
Visit the official website to apply for a Canada visa online.
Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa
Identify the purpose of your visit to Canada and choose the appropriate visa category.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents as per the visa requirements, ensuring they are complete and up-to-date.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the visa application form accurately and truthfully, providing all requested information.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the applicable visa fee through the designated payment method, following the instructions provided.
Step 5: Schedule and Attend Biometrics Appointment
Schedule a biometrics appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) and attend the appointment as scheduled.
Step 6: Attend Visa Interview (if required)
Some visa applicants may be required to attend a visa interview. Prepare thoroughly and present yourself professionally during the interview.
Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Canada visa varies and there is no fixed duration. Generally, it takes 1 to 2 months for the process to be completed under normal circumstances. However, in some cases, it may extend beyond three months. Applicants can track the status of their Canada visa application on the Government of Canada website. Additionally, the latest workload for Canada temporary resident visas can be found on this link. It’s essential to consider official holidays in Canada, such as Canada Day, Christmas etc.
Canada visa Price (cost) in Pakistan
The official visa fee for Canada’s visit visa is 185 CAD, equivalent to approximately PKR.38,500. Additionally, there is a biometric fee of 85 CAD and a Visa Fee of 100 CAD. It’s important to note that visa fees and biometric fees may vary and are subject to change.
| Canada CAD | CAD.185 |
| Pakistani Rupee | PKR.38500 |
Applying for a Canada Visa from Other Countries with Pakistani Passport
If you’re a Pakistani citizen residing in other countries like UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, the UK, the US, or elsewhere, you’re eligible to apply for a Canada visa from there. Typically, it would help if you held residency status in that country to proceed with the Canadian visa application process. The online application process remains largely the same, and you’ll need to schedule an appointment at Gerry’s office for biometrics in your current location.
Apply for a Canada Business Visa in Pakistan
The process outlined above pertains to visit visas, suitable for tourism and short-term visits to Canada. However, if you’re planning a business trip, the same visa can be utilized. Referred to as a “Temporary Resident Visa” in Canadian terms, this visa allows for a stay of up to six months in Canada. There’s no need to separately apply for a business visa, as Canada issues long-term visit visas to facilitate such trips.
Click to apply for Business Visa
Apply for a Canada Student Visa from Pakistan
Applying for a student visa in Pakistan follows a similar procedure. You have two options: apply online and upload all required documents or visit a visa application center to apply on paper. To qualify for a student visa, you must have been accepted into a study program in Canada. Once you have your acceptance letter, you can proceed to apply for a Canadian student visa. Follow the guidelines provided on the official Canadian government website for the student visa application process.
Click to apply for a student visa.
Tips for a Successful Visa Application
- Submit all required documents accurately and completely.
- Provide honest and transparent information in the application.
- Follow the instructions provided by the Canadian visa authorities.
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews, if applicable, by practicing common interview questions.
Applying for a Canada visa from Pakistan requires careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to specific procedures. By following the steps outlined in this guide and preparing adequately, applicants can increase their chances of a successful visa application.