Canada Visitor Visa for Pakistani Citizens: Fees, Documents and Application Process
For Pakistani citizens planning a short trip to Canada for tourism, visiting family or friends, or other temporary purposes, a Canadian Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) is generally required. The application is submitted through Canada's immigration system, and applicants must demonstrate that they meet the requirements for temporary entry.
Canada Visitor Visa Fee
The current Canadian government fee for a Visitor Visa is CAD $100 per applicant. If biometrics are required, the individual biometrics fee is CAD $85, making the usual total CAD $185 per person.
Fees can change, so applicants should verify the amount on the official Government of Canada website before submitting an application.
Documents You May Need
The exact document checklist can vary according to your circumstances. Common supporting documents include:
- A valid Pakistani passport
- Bank statements and evidence of sufficient funds
- Employment or business documents
- An employment letter confirming your position, salary and approved leave, where applicable
- Evidence of your travel plans and accommodation
- Previous passports, visas and travel history, if available
- An invitation letter and supporting documents if you are visiting family, friends or a Canadian organization
- Other documents requested by the personalized IRCC checklist
Canada's official application guidance says that bank records covering at least six months can help demonstrate your financial situation. An employer letter can also establish employment and support the explanation that you intend to return to your home country after your visit.
Official Canada Visitor Visa Application Guide
What Does Canada Look For?
A visitor visa applicant must satisfy the immigration officer that they meet the requirements for temporary entry. This can include demonstrating sufficient funds for the trip, having ties such as employment, family, a home or financial assets, and convincing the officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay.
There is no single publicly stated bank-balance amount that guarantees approval. Financial circumstances should be consistent with the proposed length and nature of the trip.
How to Apply
Visitor visa applications are generally submitted online through Canada's IRCC system.
- Determine whether you need a Visitor Visa.
- Prepare the required documents.
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Submit the application.
- Provide biometrics if required.
- Respond to any additional requests from IRCC.
- Wait for a decision.
Canada states that applicants who need biometrics should arrange their biometrics appointment after receiving the biometric instruction letter.
Biometrics
Biometrics normally consist of fingerprints and a photograph. Many temporary-residence applicants are required to provide them, although exemptions apply in certain circumstances. The current individual biometrics fee is CAD $85.
Official Canada Biometrics Information
How Long Does Processing Take?
Processing times vary by country and application circumstances. They can be affected by factors such as whether the application is complete, how easily information can be verified, and whether IRCC requests additional information.
Applicants should therefore check the official processing-time tool rather than relying on a fixed number of days.
Is There a “Free Canada Visa”?
For Pakistani visitors, there is generally no free tourist or visitor visa. A regular Visitor Visa application has a CAD $100 processing fee, and eligible applicants may also have to pay the CAD $85 biometrics fee.
Applicants should also be cautious of websites or agents advertising a guaranteed or “free Canada visa.” Visa decisions are made by Canadian immigration authorities, and paying an agent does not guarantee approval.
Official Application Resources
Applicants should use the official Government of Canada immigration website for current requirements, fees and application instructions.