How to Apply for a Canadian Visit Visa from Pakistan: A Step-by-Step Guide
Canada is a popular destination for tourists, students, and business travellers from all over the world. If you’re in Pakistan and planning to visit Canada, you’ll need a valid visa before you can enter the country. We at AIRCS provide you with insights on the complexities involved in isa applications.
- Determine Your Visa Type
There are several types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, such as:
- Tourist visa (for leisure purposes)
- Business visa (for work-related visits or meetings)
- Family visit visa (to visit relatives)
- Student visa (if attending short courses or programs)
For most tourists, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required. This visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months.
2. Know the Visa Requirements
Before applying, it’s important to know the basic requirements for a Canadian visit visa. The Canadian government evaluates several factors to ensure that visitors have legitimate reasons to enter the country and will return to Pakistan after their stay. Common documents and information required include:
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
- Proof of financial support: You need to show that you can support yourself financially during your stay. This can include bank statements, pay slips, or proof of employment.
- Ties to Pakistan: Strong ties, such as family, employment, or property, that will compel you to return to Pakistan after your trip.
- Purpose of visit: A letter of invitation from a Canadian resident (if visiting family or friends) or a detailed itinerary for tourists.
- No criminal record: You must have no criminal history and be able to provide a police certificate if requested.
- Medical examination: In some cases, a medical exam may be required, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period.
3. Complete the Application Form
You can apply for a Canadian visit visa either online or on paper. Most applicants prefer the online route as it is faster and more convenient.
Online Application Process:
- Create an account on the IRCC portal: Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and create a GCKey account to submit your visa application.
- Fill out the application form: The form will ask for personal details, travel history, and the reason for your visit. Ensure that all information is accurate and matches the supporting documents.
- Upload supporting documents: Scan and upload all required documents, such as your passport, photographs, proof of financial support, and invitation letter (if applicable).
- Pay the visa fee: The fee for a Canadian visitor visa is CAD 100. You may also need to pay an additional CAD 85 if you are required to submit biometrics (fingerprints and a photo).
Paper Application Process:
- Download the visa application form: You can download the form from the IRCC website, fill it out, and print it.
- Gather the required documents: Prepare all necessary documents as mentioned earlier.
- Submit the application at a VAC: Paper applications must be submitted in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan, such as those in Islamabad, Karachi, or Lahore.
- Pay the fees: Payment can be made at the VAC when submitting your application.
4. Biometrics Submission
Once you have submitted your application, you may be asked to provide biometrics, which include fingerprints and a photograph. Biometrics are required for most visa applicants from Pakistan. You can provide your biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or a Canadian embassy.
The biometrics fee is CAD 85, and you will receive instructions on how and where to provide your biometrics after submitting your visa application.
5. Wait for Processing
Visa processing times vary depending on the time of year, but it typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks for a visitor visa application to be processed from Pakistan. During this period, the Canadian embassy may request additional documents or schedule an interview.
You can track the status of your application through your IRCC online account or by contacting the VAC where you submitted your paper application.
6. Visa Decision and Passport Submission
If your visa is approved, you will receive a notification to submit your passport for visa stamping. You can either send your passport to the VAC by mail or visit in person.
Once your visa is stamped in your passport, you are officially ready to travel to Canada. Remember, even with a visa, the final decision to allow you entry into Canada lies with the border officer at your port of entry.
7. Tips for a Successful Visa Application
- Provide accurate information: Double-check that all your details are correct and consistent across all documents. Mismatches in information can cause delays or rejections.
- Show strong ties to Pakistan: Ensure that you have enough proof that you will return to Pakistan after your visit, such as family, job commitments, or property ownership.
- Be prepared for biometrics: Have your appointment scheduled as soon as possible after your visa submission to avoid delays.
- Provide detailed travel plans: If you’re applying as a tourist, provide a clear itinerary of your activities, including accommodation bookings and a list of places you intend to visit.
Applying for a Canadian visit visa from Pakistan may seem daunting, but by following the right steps and ensuring that your documents are in order, the process can be straightforward. Start your application early, provide all the required information, and be patient as your application is processed. Once approved, you’ll be ready to explore the beautiful sights of Canada!
