Canada Visitor Visa from Pakistan — Complete 2026 Guide
Last updated: October 2026 · 10 minute read
A Canada Visitor Visa (also called Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) lets Pakistani passport holders visit Canada for tourism, visiting family, business meetings, or short events. This guide covers who can apply, what you need, and how to maximise approval chances.
Types of Visitor Visa
- Single-entry: allows one entry to Canada before expiry
- Multiple-entry: allows unlimited entries up to 10 years (or passport expiry); each visit up to 6 months
- Super Visa: special category for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens/PRs; stays up to 5 years per entry
Most approved Pakistani visitor visas are issued as multiple-entry valid up to the passport's expiry.
Who Can Apply
You must:
- Have a valid Pakistani passport
- Convince an officer you'll leave Canada at the end of your visit
- Have enough money for your stay
- Have no criminal record
- Be in good health (medical exam may be required for stays over 6 months)
- Not pose a security risk
Documents Required
Core Application
- Completed IMM 5257 application form
- Family Information form (IMM 5645)
- Current passport + all previous passports
- 2 passport photos (Canadian specification)
- CNIC + Family Registration Certificate
Financial Proof
- Bank statements — last 4 months with stamp
- Salary slips — last 3 months
- Tax returns — last 2 years
- Property documents (if applicable)
Employment / Business
- Employment letter stating position, salary, duration, approved leave
- Business registration (if self-employed)
- SECP, NTN, tax returns for business
Purpose of Trip
- Letter of invitation from Canadian host (if visiting someone)
- Host's immigration status copy (citizenship card, PR card, work permit)
- Host's bank statements and employment proof (if sponsoring your stay)
- Travel itinerary and hotel bookings
- Return flight reservation
Fees
- Visa fee: CAD $100 (approximately PKR 20,500)
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (approximately PKR 17,500)
Pay online via IRCC portal using a credit card. Fees are non-refundable.
Application Process
Step 1 — Create IRCC Account
Go to canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship. Create a "GCKey" account or sign in via "Sign-In Partner" (not available in Pakistan).
Step 2 — Complete Online Application
Answer the "Come to Canada" questionnaire. Based on your answers, you'll be routed to the appropriate TRV application forms. Upload all documents, review, and pay fees.
Step 3 — Give Biometrics
After paying the biometrics fee, you receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL). Within 30 days, book an appointment at VFS Global Canada Visa Application Centre in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi.
Step 4 — Processing
Current processing time for Canada visitor visa from Pakistan is typically 4–8 weeks after biometrics. During peak periods, this can extend to 12 weeks.
Step 5 — Submit Passport
If approved, you receive a passport request letter. Submit your passport to the VFS centre; the visa (counterfoil) is affixed and your passport returned via courier.
Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents
If your child or grandchild is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for the Super Visa instead of a regular TRV. Benefits:
- Up to 5 years per entry (vs. 6 months for regular TRV)
- Valid up to 10 years
- Multiple entries
Super Visa requirements:
- Letter of invitation from your child/grandchild in Canada
- Proof they meet minimum income threshold (based on LICO)
- Private medical insurance from a Canadian company, valid at least 1 year, minimum CAD $100,000 coverage
- Immigration medical exam
Common Refusal Reasons
- Weak ties to Pakistan — officer not convinced you'll return
- Insufficient funds — bank balance doesn't match trip cost
- Travel history — no previous international travel
- Purpose of visit unclear — vague letter of invitation
- Immigration status of inviter — if host's status is unclear or expired
- Previous overstays or refusals in other countries not disclosed
If Refused
Canada doesn't offer appeals for TRV refusals. You can:
- Reapply addressing the reasons given in the refusal letter
- Request GCMS notes through a Canadian lawyer or consultant to see detailed officer comments
After Arrival in Canada
At the airport, a CBSA officer stamps your passport. The length of stay granted is based on their assessment — typically 6 months, sometimes less. The stamp expiry is your actual authorised stay, which may differ from the visa validity.
Working or Studying on a Visitor Visa
You cannot work in Canada on a visitor visa. You can study only short courses (under 6 months) without a study permit. Longer studies require a Study Permit.
Extending Your Stay
To stay beyond the authorised date, apply for a Visitor Record extension at least 30 days before your current status expires. There's no guarantee of approval.