Loading...

Applying for a Canada visa from Pakistan can be an exciting step toward exploring new opportunities or visiting loved ones in one of the world’s most welcoming countries. However, recent changes in immigration policies have made the process more stringent. As per Immigration Minister Marc Miller, new measures have pushed the visa refusal rate above 61% for applicants from certain countries.

To boost your chances of visa approval, it’s critical to avoid common pitfalls. This article will walk you through how to apply Canada visa, the documents required, reasons for refusals, and tips to strengthen your application — all while ensuring you stay updated on the Canada visa process and associated Canada visa price/fee. In addition to opting for Canada visa, you can al;so consider applying for USA visa from Pakistan.

 

Understanding the Canada Visa Process

Before diving into the mistakes, it’s crucial to understand the basic steps involved in applying for a Canada visitor visa.

How to Apply Canada Visa: Step-by-Step Process

StepDescription
1.Determine visa type (e.g., visitor visa, Super Visa)
2.Complete online application forms (e.g., IMM 5257, IMM 5707)
3.Collect required documents
4.Pay the Canada visa fee
5.Submit biometrics at VAC
6.Wait for processing and decision

 

📌 Note: You can apply online via the IRCC portal or through a Visa Application Center (VAC) in Pakistan.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid for a Canada Visa from Pakistan

Let’s explore the most common mistakes that often lead to visa refusals — and how you can avoid them.

1. Incomplete Application Forms

Missing fields, blank answers, or outdated forms are major red flags for visa officers.

Tips to Avoid This Mistake:

Use “N/A” where applicable instead of leaving blanks.

Double-check that all required forms (like IMM 5257 and IMM 5707) are filled completely.

Follow the personalized document checklist provided during the application.

 

2. Providing False or Misleading Information

Falsifying details or omitting crucial facts can lead to visa denial or even a 5-year ban.

What Counts as Misrepresentation:

Giving incorrect employment or financial information

Using fake documents

Hiding prior visa refusals from any country

Always be truthful and transparent. Double-check for consistency across all documents.

 

3. Weak Ties to Home Country

One of the top reasons applications are rejected is the failure to demonstrate strong intent to return home after the visit.

Strong Home Ties May Include:

Proof of stable employment

Ownership of property or a business

Family obligations like children or elderly parents

Enrolled studentship in a university or school

Recommended Documents:

Job offer letter or salary slip

Title deed of property

Marriage certificate or family registration certificate

 

4. Lack of Financial Evidence

Immigration officials need to see that you can support yourself during your stay.

Documents That Demonstrate Financial Capacity:

TypeExamples
Bank StatementsLast 6 months showing consistent balance
Proof of IncomeSalary slips, employment letter
InvestmentsFixed deposits, shares
Sponsorship LetterIf being supported by a host in Canada

 

💰 Canada visa price/fee for a visitor visa is CAD $100, and biometrics fee is CAD $85.
Exchange rate should also be factored into your budget planning.

 

5. Vague Purpose of Visit

A generic purpose like “tourism” may not be convincing enough for visa officers.

How to Be Specific:

Provide a detailed travel itinerary

Include proof of hotel and flight bookings

Attach invitations to events or family gatherings

Write a compelling cover letter describing your purpose

Example of a Clear Purpose Statement:

"I am visiting Canada from August 10 to August 25, 2025, to attend my cousin’s wedding in Toronto, followed by a brief tour of Niagara Falls and Ottawa."

 

6. Ignoring Criminal or Health Inadmissibility

Certain criminal offenses or health conditions can render an applicant inadmissible.

Common Grounds for Inadmissibility:

DUI (Driving Under the Influence)

Assault or fraud charges

Contagious health conditions

Past immigration violations

If any such issue exists, consult a certified immigration consultant or lawyer before applying.

 

Special Visa Types: Know Your Options

Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents

The Super Visa allows parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or PR holders to visit for up to 5 years per entry, with a validity of up to 10 years.

Requirements Include:

Medical insurance from a Canadian provider

Letter of invitation from the Canadian child/grandchild

Proof of income from the inviter

 

Who Requires a Visitor Visa to Canada?

If you're a Pakistani passport holder, you require a visitor visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

Visa Types and Their Details

Visa TypeValidityEntry TypeStay Duration
Visitor VisaUp to 10 yearsSingle/MultipleUp to 6 months
Super VisaUp to 10 yearsMultipleUp to 5 years per visit

 

Visa Exemptions: Who Doesn’t Need a Visa?

CategoryRequirement
US CitizensNo visa or eTA required
Green Card Holders (USA)No visa, eTA required for air travel
Some EU NationalseTA only

 

⚠️ Canada revised visa rules for Mexican nationals in 2024. Similar changes may apply to other nationalities.

 

Canada Visa Fees for Applicants from Pakistan

Here is a breakdown of the typical costs involved:

ItemPrice in CADApprox. PKR (2025 Rate: 1 CAD = 210 PKR)
Visitor Visa10021,000
Biometrics Fee8517,850
Super Visa Medical InsuranceVaries~100,000 to 200,000 PKR/year

 

💡 Tip: Always use official exchange rates when calculating total cost for the Canada visa from Pakistan.

 

Top Tips to Boost Approval Chances

Here’s a handy checklist to avoid costly mistakes:

Application Success Checklist

 All required forms are complete

 Supporting documents uploaded

 Financial proof is adequate

 Travel itinerary is detailed

 Honest and consistent information provided

 Home ties documented

 No inadmissibility concerns

 Visa fee and biometrics fee paid

 

When to Consult an Immigration Expert?

If your case involves:

Previous visa refusals

Criminal record or inadmissibility issues

Confusing documentation requirements

Applying for a Super Visa or family reunification

🎯 Consult a certified immigration consultant or lawyer to increase your chances of success


Securing a Canada visa from Pakistan requires diligence, honesty, and meticulous planning. With the visa refusal rate rising, it’s more important than ever to avoid errors and submit a robust application. Understand the Canada visa process, budget for the Canada visa price/fee, and know how to apply Canada visa properly to maximize your chances of success.

Avoid the common mistakes mentioned in this article, and you’ll be well on your way to exploring the wonders of Canada — whether it’s visiting loved ones, experiencing scenic landscapes, or attending major events.

;