Islamabad: Pakistanis planning to travel to Canada for education, employment, or family visits may now face longer waiting periods after Canadian immigration authorities updated the estimated processing times for several visa categories.
According to the latest update, the estimated processing time for study permits submitted from Pakistan has increased from 6 weeks to 7 weeks, while work permit applications are now expected to take 11 weeks instead of 10 weeks.
For those applying for a visitor visa, the estimated processing period has risen from 40 days to 43 days. Meanwhile, applications for the Super Visa, which allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit for extended periods, are now expected to take 196 days, up from 194 days.
When Does the Processing Clock Start?
Canadian immigration authorities have clarified that the published processing times are estimates and begin only after a complete application, including all required documents and biometric information, has been received.
Applicants in Pakistan may experience additional delays due to the time required to secure biometric appointments at VFS centres, meaning the overall waiting period could be longer than the official estimate.
Why Are Processing Times Increasing?
Immigration experts say the longer timelines are largely the result of rising global demand for Canadian visas and an increasing backlog of applications.
Seasonal factors also contribute to the delays. Every year, applications for study permits surge ahead of the September academic intake, while visitor and work visa applications typically increase during the summer travel season.
Students and Workers Could Be Affected
The updated timelines could create challenges for international students whose university or college sessions are scheduled to begin soon. Delayed study permits may force some students to defer their admission to a later intake, potentially affecting scholarships and academic plans.
Similarly, skilled workers with confirmed job offers may face difficulties if they are unable to arrive in Canada before their employers’ joining deadlines, raising the possibility of postponed start dates or withdrawn offers.
Advice for Applicants
Immigration advisers recommend submitting applications as early as possible rather than waiting until the last minute. They also advise applicants to ensure that all supporting documents—including financial records, bank statements, police clearance certificates, and other required paperwork—are complete and accurate at the time of submission to avoid unnecessary delays.
Follow Official Updates
Canadian immigration authorities continue to remind applicants that visa policies and processing times are reviewed regularly. Prospective travellers are encouraged to rely only on official government updates instead of unverified social media posts, rumours, or claims made by unauthorized agents.
