Visitor visa (TRV) required. US green card holders follow separate rules.
Canada visit visa for Pakistanis — overview
Pakistani passport holders need a visitor visa, officially called a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), to visit Canada for tourism, family visits or business. Applications are made online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), followed by biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at an authorised visa application centre. Visitors are usually allowed to stay for up to six months, as decided by the border officer on arrival.
Types of Canadian visitor visas
- Single-entry visa: allows one entry into Canada.
- Multiple-entry visa: allows multiple entries during the visa's validity, often up to 10 years or until passport expiry.
- Super visa: for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing longer stays (separate requirements).
How to apply from Pakistan
- Create an IRCC account and complete the online visitor visa application.
- Upload your documents — passport, financial evidence, employment proof, travel history and purpose of visit.
- Pay the application and biometrics fees online.
- Give biometrics at a visa application centre after receiving the biometric instruction letter.
- Wait for a decision. If approved, you will be asked to submit your passport for visa stamping.
Documents commonly required
- Valid passport and previous passports showing travel history
- Digital photograph meeting IRCC specifications
- Bank statements (typically six months), bank certificate and fixed deposits if any
- Employment letter, salary slips and leave approval, or business registration, NTN and business bank statements
- Income tax returns and property documents
- Family information form and family registration certificate (FRC) where relevant
- Invitation letter from your host in Canada, with their status documents and address (if visiting family or friends)
- Travel itinerary and a letter explaining the purpose of your visit
What IRCC officers assess
Visa officers want to be satisfied that you are a genuine visitor who will leave Canada at the end of your stay. They consider your ties to Pakistan (employment, family, property), your financial situation, the purpose of your trip and your travel history. Applications that are clear, consistent and well-documented have a better chance of success.
Tips for a strong application
- Write a clear letter of explanation describing your trip, who you will visit, how long you will stay and how you will pay.
- Provide genuine financial history and explain any large deposits.
- Show strong ties through employment, business, family responsibilities and assets.
- Highlight travel history, especially visits to the US, UK, Schengen or other countries with timely returns.
- Answer every question honestly — misrepresentation can lead to a five-year ban.
Electronic travel authorisation (eTA)
Pakistani passport holders generally need a full visitor visa rather than an eTA. Certain travellers, such as US green card holders, may follow different rules. Check the official Canada.ca tool to confirm what applies to you.
After approval
Having a visa does not guarantee entry; the border services officer will check your documents on arrival. Carry your invitation letter, proof of funds and return ticket. Follow the conditions of your stay and leave Canada before your authorised period ends.
Processing times and refusals
Processing times change frequently and are published on the IRCC website. If refused, you will receive reasons, and you can reapply with a stronger application. Requesting officer notes (GCMS) can help you understand the refusal in detail.
How TravelCo.pk can help
We can help you organise your documents, prepare a travel plan and review your application before submission. Decisions are made by IRCC, and approval cannot be guaranteed by any agent.
Disclaimer
Canadian immigration rules, fees and processing times change regularly. Always confirm current requirements on the official Government of Canada website.
Documents checklist for Pakistani applicants
- Original Pakistani passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates, with blank pages
- Recent passport-size photographs (white background) as per the country's specification
- Copy of CNIC (and NICOP/FRC for family applications where relevant)
- Completed visa application form (online or printed)
- Cover letter explaining the purpose and itinerary of your trip
- Confirmed return or onward air ticket (or reservation)
- Hotel booking or invitation letter with host's address and ID
- Travel medical insurance covering the full stay
- Personal bank statement for the last 6 months with sufficient balance
- Bank maintenance/balance certificate
- Employment letter with leave approval and salary slips (employees)
- NTN certificate, company registration and business bank statement (business owners)
- Latest income tax returns (FBR) — strengthens the application
Official source: www.canada.ca