Are you dreaming of visiting the beautiful country of Canada? If you’re currently residing in Pakistan and looking to embark on a short visit to Canada, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
From determining the appropriate visa to apply for to understanding the necessary requirements, our step-by-step guidance covers everything you need to know. Whether you’re planning to explore Canada’s picturesque landscapes, reconnect with family and friends, or simply experience its vibrant culture, Graana.com has prepared this guide that will provide you with the essential information to make your journey a reality.
So, if you’re eager to embark on an unforgettable adventure to Canada, continue reading to learn how to navigate the visa application process, submit your application with confidence, and ensure a memorable visit to this enchanting country.
Why Should You Get a Visitor Visa?
There are multiple visa options for visitors coming to Canada, but it’s essential to choose the one that aligns with your intentions. Opting for a visitor visa is suitable if your aim is to travel for leisure, visit friends, or spend time with family.
A visitor visa is a temporary permit granted to individuals planning to stay in Canada for a limited duration, typically six months or less. It’s suitable for those intending to attend brief business meetings, reconnect with family or friends, or embark on a vacation. Additionally, if you’re interested in participating in a short-term study program, you can also apply for this visa type.
Requirements for Visit Visa to Canada
Before initiating the process for a visitor visa, it’s crucial to verify your eligibility. Below are the prerequisites for obtaining a visitor visa to Canada from Pakistan:
- You must possess a valid government-issued passport with at least one blank page for visa stamping, excluding the final page. If you do not have one, you should gather all the necessary documents and apply for the passport.
- The passport should have a validity of at least six months.
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old and in good health.
- Completion of the Canadian tourist visa application form is mandatory.
- Adequate financial resources to cover visa application fees, processing costs, and the entire stay in Canada are required. Bank statements or other financial documents must be provided as evidence.
- If the trip is funded by family or friends in Canada, they must provide their bank statements.
- Demonstrating strong ties to Pakistan, such as employment, family, or educational commitments, is necessary to convince immigration authorities of your intention to return after visiting Canada.
- If visiting family or friends in Canada, a letter of invitation, their immigration status, and proof of relationship are essential.
- A clean immigration history, free from convictions, criminal records, or human rights violations, is advantageous. Documentation such as court records or police clearance certificates may be requested by the consulate.
- Family, identity, and educational documents must be in English or French.
- It’s important to list all intended locations to visit in Canada, along with providing details of hotel and flight reservations.
- A comprehensive letter addressed to the Canadian government explaining the reasons for visa approval is necessary.
- Two recent photographs, meeting Canada’s photo requirements, are required.
- The visitor visa application process is individualised, and additional or fewer requirements may be requested.
How to Apply
In Pakistan, there are two avenues for applying for a Canadian Visitor Visa:
Manual Application
Previously an option, the manual application process has been discontinued by the Pakistani government. All visa applications must now be submitted online through the Government’s visa categories website.
Online Application
Opting for the online application method is advantageous as it saves both time and money. Below is a concise guide outlining the steps involved in applying for a visitor visa online:
- Visit the official Government of Canada website and navigate to the immigration citizenship section. Proceed to the visit category and click on “Apply for a Visitor Visa.”
- After thoroughly reviewing the information on the page, click on “Apply” at the top of the page. You’ll need to choose between “online” and “on paper” as your submission method.
- If you select the online option, you’ll be directed to another webpage. If it’s your first time applying for a visitor visa, you’ll need to register first.
- Registration for an IRCC secure account can be done using either a Sign-In Partner (requiring Canadian online banking information) or a GC key.
- Upon successful login, you can commence working on your visa application.
- Once your application is accepted, you’ll need to visit the Canadian Consulate for biometrics and an interview. Subsequently, you’ll submit your passport for visa stamping upon approval.
- The stamped passport will either be mailed back to you by the consulate, or you may be required to pick it up in person.
Things to Keep in Mind
When applying for a visitor’s visa from Pakistan to Canada, it’s important to keep the following points in mind:
- Determine the cost of a Canadian visitor visa from Pakistan by checking the visa fees.
- Utilise processing times and ensure accurate location details to estimate the duration for obtaining your visitor’s visa.
- Upon arrival at the Canadian border, immigration officials will stamp your passport with the departure date, and you may also receive a visitor record indicating your permitted stay duration. While the Pakistan Consulate assesses your eligibility for a visitor’s visa to Canada, final admission or rejection is determined by Canadian customs and border control authorities. However, rejections are infrequent and typically based on valid reasons. It’s crucial to provide accurate information throughout all stages of the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Following are the most common questions and their answers for a Canda visit visa from Pakistan.
What type of visa do I need to visit Canada from Pakistan?
For short visits, such as tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending business meetings, you’ll typically apply for a Visitor Visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa).
How long does it take to process a Canadian Visitor Visa application from Pakistan?
Processing times vary, but generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
What documents do I need to apply for a Canadian Visitor Visa from Pakistan?
You’ll need a valid passport, completed visa application forms, proof of sufficient funds, itinerary details, proof of ties to Pakistan, and any additional documents specific to your purpose of visit (such as a letter of invitation).
Do I need to provide biometrics for a Canadian Visitor Visa from Pakistan?
Yes, biometrics are mandatory for most visa applicants. You’ll need to visit a designated biometric collection centre to provide your fingerprints and photographs.
Can I work or study with a Canadian Visitor Visa from Pakistan?
No, a Visitor Visa does not permit you to work or study in Canada. If you wish to do so, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate work or study permit.
How long can I stay in Canada with a Visitor Visa from Pakistan?
Typically, Visitor Visas allow for stays of up to six months per visit. However, the immigration officer at the port of entry will determine your actual permitted duration of stay.
Can I extend my stay in Canada if I have a Visitor Visa from Pakistan?
In some cases, it may be possible to extend your stay in Canada. You’ll need to apply for an extension before your current status expires.
What happens if my Canadian Visitor Visa application from Pakistan is refused?
If your application is refused, you’ll receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You may have the option to reapply or appeal the decision, depending on the circumstances.
Do I need travel insurance for my trip to Canada from Pakistan?
While it’s not mandatory, having travel insurance is highly recommended. It can provide financial protection in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Can I travel to Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Travel restrictions and requirements are subject to change due to the pandemic. Before planning your trip, check the latest updates from both the Canadian and Pakistani authorities, including any testing, quarantine, or vaccination requirements.
To read about the Canadian work visa for Pakistanis, visit Graana Blog.
