Canada Visitor Visa from Pakistan: Complete Guide

Updated: July 2026•17 min read

Canada is a top destination for Pakistani travellers, whether for tourism, visiting family, or business. The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly known as the Canada visitor visa, allows you to stay in Canada for up to 6 months. This guide walks you through the complete application process, from document preparation to biometrics and final decision.

The Canada visa process is thorough and requires careful attention to detail. Canadian immigration officers evaluate your application based on your financial situation, ties to Pakistan, travel history, and purpose of visit. A well-documented application with clear evidence of your intent to return to Pakistan is essential.

Understanding the Canada Visitor Visa

The Canada Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is a visitor visa that allows you to enter Canada for tourism, family visits, business meetings, or medical treatment. The visa can be single-entry or multiple-entry:

Single-Entry Visa

Allows one entry into Canada. Once you leave, you need a new visa to re-enter.

Multiple-Entry Visa

Allows multiple entries within the visa validity period (up to 10 years or 1 month before passport expiry).

Required Documents

  • Valid passport (at least 1 blank page)
  • Completed IMM 5257 application form
  • Two passport-sized photographs (50mm x 70mm)
  • Proof of financial support (bank statements, employment letter)
  • Travel history documents (previous visas, stamps)
  • Purpose of travel letter
  • Proof of accommodation in Canada
  • Round-trip flight reservation
  • Employment or business registration documents
  • Property documents in Pakistan (if applicable)
  • Family ties documentation (marriage certificate, children's documents)
  • Biometrics confirmation letter

Financial Evidence

Demonstrating sufficient financial means is one of the most critical aspects of your Canada visa application. The visa officer must be convinced that you can fund your entire stay without working illegally in Canada.

  • Provide bank statements for the last 6 months
  • Show consistent salary deposits matching your employment letter
  • Avoid sudden large deposits — the officer will question the source
  • If someone is sponsoring you, provide their financial documents and a sponsorship letter

Biometrics Requirement

Biometrics for Canada Visa

Pakistani citizens are required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) for a Canada visitor visa. After submitting your online application, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).

  • • Complete biometrics at a VFS centre within 30 days of receiving the BIL
  • • Bring your passport and the BIL to your appointment
  • • Biometrics are valid for 10 years
  • • If you provided biometrics for a Canadian application in the last 10 years, you may not need to give them again

Application Process

  1. 1
    Create an IRCC online account
  2. 2
    Complete the IMM 5257 application form
  3. 3
    Upload all required documents
  4. 4
    Pay the visa fee and biometrics fee online
  5. 5
    Submit your application
  6. 6
    Receive Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
  7. 7
    Complete biometrics at a VFS centre within 30 days
  8. 8
    Wait for processing (2-4 weeks typical)
  9. 9
    Receive decision by email
  10. 10
    If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa sticker

Visa Fees

Visitor Visa (TRV)

CAD 100 per person

Biometrics Fee

CAD 85 per person (max CAD 170 per family)

Fees are subject to change. Always verify on the IRCC website.

Processing Time

Canada visitor visa processing times vary. Online applications typically take 2-4 weeks, but this can change based on application volume and individual circumstances. Check the IRCC website for current processing times. You must complete biometrics within 30 days of receiving the BIL.

Common Refusal Reasons

  • Insufficient financial evidence
  • Weak ties to Pakistan — not convinced you will return
  • Purpose of visit not clearly demonstrated
  • Previous visa refusals from Canada or other countries
  • Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
  • Credibility concerns

Official Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Canada visitor visa take to process from Pakistan?+
Processing times vary. Online applications typically take 2-4 weeks, but can take longer depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances. Biometrics must be completed within 30 days of receiving the request. Check the IRCC website for current processing times.
How much is the Canada visitor visa fee?+
The Canada visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) fee is CAD 100 per person. The biometrics fee is CAD 85 per person. If applying as a family, the maximum biometrics fee is CAD 170. Fees are subject to change — always verify on the IRCC website before applying.
Do I need biometrics for a Canada visitor visa?+
Yes, Pakistani citizens are required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) for a Canada visitor visa. After submitting your online application, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL). You must complete biometrics at a VFS centre within 30 days of receiving this letter.
What is the minimum bank balance for a Canada visitor visa?+
There is no officially published minimum balance. You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your stay in Canada. The key is showing consistent income over 6 months rather than a sudden large deposit. Focus on salary credits, regular income patterns, and financial stability.
Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?+
No, you cannot work on a visitor visa. A visitor visa is strictly for tourism, visiting family, or business meetings. If you intend to work in Canada, you must apply for a work permit, which is a separate application process with different requirements.
What if my Canada visa is refused?+
You will receive a refusal letter. You can reapply at any time, but you must address the specific reasons for refusal. Common reasons include insufficient financial evidence, weak ties to home country, and previous travel violations. Consider booking a consultation to review your profile before reapplying.

Visa requirements, fees and processing times may change. This guide is provided for general information and does not guarantee approval. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant embassy, immigration authority or official visa application center before applying.

Karachi-Specific Help

Applying for a Canada visitor visa from Karachi? Our consultants in DHA Phase 7 Extension can review your application, prepare your documents, and guide you through the biometrics process. VFS centres in Karachi handle biometrics appointments.

Canada Visit Visa Consultant in Karachi

Related Articles

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Canada Visitor Visa Processing Time

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Canada Visitor Visa Refusal Reasons

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Last verified: July 2026

by Make Sense Travels Team