Canada Tourist Visa
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) · For Pakistan citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Pakistani citizen? This guide covers everything you need for the Temporary Resident Visa application: required documents, current fees of CAD 185, processing times of 8-15 weeks, and strategies to improve your chances. Thorough documentation and strong ties to Pakistan are essential for approval.
Canada Tourist Visa for Pakistani Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Pakistan citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Canada
Complete the visitor visa application form online or on paper
Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting IRCC specifications
Fingerprints and photograph taken at a designated collection point
Evidence that you have enough money to cover your trip
Documentation proving your employment status
Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Pakistan
Details of your planned activities in Canada
Recommended (Optional)
Letter from your host in Canada
Medical examination by a panel physician
Criminal record check from Pakistan
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the IRCC website or on paper through VFS Global.1 Online applications are recommended for faster processing.
1. Create Online Account
Register for a GCKey account or use your Sign-In Partner on the IRCC website to start your application.1
2. Complete Application Forms
Fill out the Visitor Visa application (IMM 5257) and Family Information form (IMM 5645). Provide complete and accurate information about your travel plans, employment, and finances.
3. Pay Fees
Pay the CAD $100 application fee and CAD $85 biometrics fee online.2 You will receive instructions for providing biometrics after payment.
4. Provide Biometrics
Book an appointment at a VFS Global centre in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi.4 Bring your passport and biometric instruction letter. Fingerprints and photo are collected.
5. Submit Supporting Documents
Upload all required documents including bank statements, employment letters, and evidence of ties to Pakistan. Ensure documents are clear and complete.
6. Wait for Processing
Processing times are currently 8-15 weeks.3 You can check your application status online. You may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview.
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visitor Visa Application | CAD $100 |
| Biometrics | CAD $85 |
| Family Maximum (5+ people) | CAD $500 |
Total cost for a single applicant is CAD $185.2 VFS Global may charge additional service fees for optional services.
What You Need to Prove
The visa officer must be satisfied that you:1
- Have a genuine purpose for visiting Canada temporarily
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
- Have strong ties to Pakistan that will ensure your return
- Will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay
- Are admissible to Canada (no criminal or health inadmissibility)
Processing Times
Current processing times for visitor visa applications from Pakistan are 8-15 weeks.3 Processing times can vary based on:
- Volume of applications received
- Completeness of your application
- Whether additional documents are requested
- If an interview is required
Apply at least 3-4 months before your intended travel date to allow for processing time.
After Your Visa is Approved
Once approved, you will receive a Temporary Resident Visa (counterfoil sticker) in your passport. At the Canadian port of entry, a border officer will:
- Verify your identity and travel documents
- Ask about the purpose of your visit
- Determine your authorized stay period
You may be asked to show:
- Return flight tickets
- Hotel reservations or host’s address
- Evidence of funds
- Invitation letter if visiting friends or family
If Your Visa is Refused
If refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can:
- Request GCMS notes to understand the detailed reasons for refusal
- Reapply with improved documentation addressing the concerns
- Wait for changed circumstances before reapplying
- Seek professional guidance for complex cases
There is no formal appeal process, but you can reapply at any time with new or additional documentation.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Insufficient Ties to Home Country
The visa officer was not convinced you would leave Canada at the end of your visit. Unable to demonstrate strong reasons to return to Pakistan.
How to avoid: Show strong ties through property ownership, stable employment of 2+ years, family obligations (spouse, children), and financial roots in Pakistan.
Insufficient Financial Evidence
Unable to demonstrate adequate funds to cover the trip or the source of funds was not clear.
How to avoid: Provide 6 months of bank statements showing consistent income. Include tax returns, employment letters, and property valuations. Avoid large unexplained deposits.
Weak Travel History
No previous international travel history, particularly to countries with strict immigration controls.
How to avoid: If possible, travel to other countries first to build travel history. Consider visiting countries with easier visa requirements to establish a track record.
Incomplete Application
Missing documents, incomplete forms, or failure to provide requested information.
How to avoid: Double-check all forms are complete. Include all required documents. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Inconsistent Information
Information in the application contradicts supporting documents or previous applications.
How to avoid: Ensure all information is consistent across forms and documents. Review your application before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Canada on a tourist visa?
You can typically stay for up to 6 months. The exact duration is determined by the border officer when you arrive. Check your passport stamp for your authorized stay date.
Can I work on a Canada tourist visa?
No, the Temporary Resident Visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid employment in Canada. You would need a work permit for any type of work.
How long does Canada visa processing take from Pakistan?
Processing times currently range from 8 to 15 weeks for Pakistani applicants. Apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
What is the Canada tourist visa fee for Pakistanis in 2025?
The application fee is CAD $100 per person, plus CAD $85 for biometrics. Families of 5 or more pay a maximum of CAD $500 for the application fee.
Do I need to provide biometrics?
Yes, most applicants need to provide fingerprints and a photo at a VFS Global centre. Biometrics are valid for 10 years once collected.
What happens if my visa is refused?
You will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with improved documentation or request your GCMS notes to understand the detailed reasons for refusal.
Can I extend my stay in Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your stay before your authorized period expires. Apply at least 30 days before your status expires to maintain your legal status while waiting for a decision.