Canada Visit Visa from Pakistan: Fees, Process, and What You Need to Know

Many people from Pakistan dream of visiting Canada, a land of vast natural beauty and incredible opportunities. Whether it’s for tourism, meeting family, or exploring educational prospects, securing a Canadian visit visa is the first step. But let's start with the most important factor that often sparks curiosity—the visa fee.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a Canadian Visit Visa from Pakistan?

The standard fee for a Canadian visit visa (also known as a Temporary Resident Visa) from Pakistan is around CAD 100 per person. This fee covers the processing of your application. But, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. You’ll also need to consider the biometrics fee, which is around CAD 85. This brings your total to approximately CAD 185, which, when converted into Pakistani Rupees, fluctuates depending on exchange rates but averages around PKR 45,000 to PKR 50,000.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

That’s not all—if you’re applying as a family or in a group, you might have different fee structures. For example, families applying together (up to five members) may pay CAD 500 for the visa processing fee, instead of paying CAD 100 per person individually. This could save a considerable amount.

Why Is the Visa Fee Only One Part of the Equation?

While the visa fee might seem like a significant upfront cost, it’s merely the tip of the iceberg. There are other expenses that applicants often overlook. These include:

• Travel Insurance: A must-have for any international traveler, especially when heading to a country like Canada. The cost can range between PKR 5,000 to PKR 15,000 depending on the length of your stay.
• Flight Costs: Depending on the season and when you book, flights from Pakistan to Canada can cost between PKR 150,000 to PKR 300,000.
• Accommodation: If you're staying with family or friends, great! But if you're planning to book hotels or Airbnb, that adds to your expenses too.

What About the Visa Process?

The visa process might feel daunting, but understanding the steps can make it less intimidating. Here’s a brief outline:

1. Online Application: Most applications are submitted online via the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
2. Documents: You will need to gather all required documents, including a valid passport, photographs, proof of funds, and travel itinerary.
3. Biometrics Appointment: Once you apply, you will receive instructions on where and when to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).
4. Interview (if required): In rare cases, applicants may be called for an interview at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC).
5. Processing Time: The processing time can range from 20 to 50 days, depending on the time of year and your application’s complexity.

Can You Expedite the Process?

Here’s where things get interesting—many applicants wonder if they can expedite their visa process, especially when they’re in a hurry. Unfortunately, Canada does not offer a formal expedited service for visit visas, but submitting a complete and accurate application can help avoid delays. Also, applying during non-peak times (avoiding summer and winter holidays) may slightly speed things up.

What Happens if Your Visa is Denied?

Yes, visa denials happen, and they can feel like a blow. But they are not the end of the road. If your visa is denied, it’s usually because of one or more of these reasons:

• Insufficient financial proof: Canada wants to ensure you have enough money to support yourself during your stay.
• Weak ties to your home country: If the visa officer feels you’re unlikely to return to Pakistan after your visit, this could be grounds for denial.
• Incomplete documentation: Failing to submit all required documents can also lead to a rejection.

If denied, you have two options: reapply or appeal. However, it’s important to address the reasons for denial before making your next move.

Do You Need Professional Help?

Many people choose to hire an immigration consultant to help navigate the complex waters of applying for a Canadian visit visa. This can cost anywhere between PKR 20,000 to PKR 100,000, depending on the complexity of your case and the reputation of the consultant. While not mandatory, consultants can help you avoid pitfalls that might lead to a rejected application.

Top Tips to Improve Your Chances of Approval

• Submit All Required Documents: Missing a single document can lead to a delay or denial. Make sure you double-check the list.
• Show Strong Ties to Pakistan: Whether it’s a job, property, or family commitments, provide evidence that you have reasons to return home after your visit.
• Ensure Proof of Funds: You must prove that you have enough money to support your trip, including accommodation, travel, and other expenses. Bank statements or a letter from your bank can suffice.

Looking Ahead: The Importance of Planning Your Visit

One of the best ways to ensure your trip goes smoothly is by planning well in advance. This means giving yourself enough time to gather documents, save money, and apply for your visa at least three months before your intended departure.

Visiting Canada can be a life-changing experience, whether you're there for tourism or to meet family. But navigating the visa process, especially from Pakistan, requires attention to detail, planning, and sometimes a bit of patience.

With the information provided above, you're better equipped to apply for your Canadian visit visa confidently, knowing what to expect at every stage—from fees to the application process to potential roadblocks. Good luck on your journey!