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Immigrate to Canada from Pakistan

Applicants in Pakistan give biometrics in Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi, and IRCC asks them for documents other countries do not need, such as 12 months of bank statements and a CNIC copy. This guide covers what is specific to Pakistan for each route.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated:


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IRCC processing times for applicants in Pakistan

Visitor visa (applying from outside Canada)78 daysIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Super visa (parents and grandparents)92 daysIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Study permit (applying from outside Canada)7 weeksIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Work permit (applying from outside Canada)8 weeksIRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times

Guides for Pakistani applicants

Each guide covers the documents, offices and local rules that apply in Pakistan.

What is different about applying to Canada from Pakistan?

The Canadian rules are the same for everyone, but the Islamabad visa office adds its own document list. For a visitor visa it asks for bank statements covering 12 months, a copy of your CNIC and a Family Information Form (IMM 5645). Missing items delay or weaken the file.

  • Biometrics are given at a visa application centre (VAC) in Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi.
  • Medical exams are done by IRCC panel physicians. In Pakistan these are IOM clinics in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi.
  • Degrees are attested by HEC and school certificates (SSC, HSSC) by IBCC before most credential assessments.
  • Documents in Urdu need a certified English or French translation.

Which route to Canada fits most Pakistani applicants?

It depends on your goal. Families visiting relatives use the visitor visa or, for parents, the super visa. Young applicants often study first. Skilled workers with a degree, strong IELTS or CELPIP scores and 1 or more years of experience can enter Express Entry directly.

Your age, English score and education decide your Express Entry (CRS) score. Check it before choosing a route, because the score often decides whether studying first makes sense.

Can I apply for Canada from Pakistan without an agent?

Yes. Every IRCC application can be made online by the applicant, and IRCC does not require an agent. If you pay someone to help, they must be a licensed Canadian immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer, and you must declare them on your application.

Canada from Pakistan: FAQ

At a Canada visa application centre (VAC) in Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi. You book the appointment after you apply and receive your biometrics instruction letter.
IRCC publishes a processing time for applicants in Pakistan and updates it often. The current figure is in the table on this page, taken from IRCC’s own data.
For most education credential assessments (for example WES) and many study applications, yes. HEC attests degrees and transcripts online through its e-services portal, after your university verifies them.
IRCC publishes visa office instructions for Pakistan from its Islamabad office. You do not visit the office. You apply online and give biometrics at a VAC.

Official sources

Not sure which route fits you from Pakistan?

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This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and document lists change often. Confirm current requirements on canada.ca or with a licensed Canadian immigration representative (RCIC or lawyer) before you apply.