Pakistan Embassy in Canada

The High Commission of Pakistan in Ottawa (Pakistan Embassy) serves as the principal diplomatic mission representing Pakistan in Canada. It provides essential consular services to Pakistani citizens residing or traveling in Canada, and supports Canadians and other nationals seeking to visit, work, study, or engage with Pakistan.

This guide offers an overview of the services available at the High Commission, including visa processing, passport issuance and renewal, document attestation and legalization, and consular assistance for Pakistani nationals. The High Commission also plays a key role in strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Canada through political dialogue, trade promotion, cultural exchange, and community outreach.

Whether you are a Pakistani citizen in need of consular support or a Canadian planning to explore opportunities in Pakistan, understanding the services and procedures in advance will help ensure a smooth and informed experience.

Pakistan Embassy in Canada

Table of Contents

The Pakistan Embassy in Canada

The Pakistan Embassy in Ottawa, officially known as the High Commission of Pakistan, provides comprehensive consular services for Pakistani citizens residing or traveling in Canada. These services include passport issuance and renewal, notarial acts, and attestation and legalization of Pakistani and Canadian documents.

For Canadians and other foreign nationals, the Embassy facilitates visa applications for tourism, business, study, or work in Pakistan. Applicants are encouraged to review current visa requirements based on their travel purpose and duration, as Pakistan offers a range of visa categories through its online portal.

The Embassy also supports the registration of births, marriages, and deaths abroad, assists dual nationals with travel documentation, and promotes cultural and educational exchanges. It works closely with Canadian institutions to serve the Pakistani diaspora and foster community engagement.

As both Pakistan and Canada are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, documents issued in Canada for use in Pakistan no longer require traditional consular legalization. Instead, they must be apostilled by designated provincial authorities such as the Ministry of the Attorney General in Ontario or the Ministry of Justice in British Columbia. Pakistani documents intended for use in Canada must be apostilled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pakistan or its regional offices.

Additionally, the Embassy plays a vital role in fostering bilateral relations between Pakistan and Canada, with a focus on trade, investment, and cultural cooperation, rooted in shared interests and mutual respect.

Contact details

Pakistan Embassy (High Commission) in Ottawa

Consulate General of Pakistan in Toronto

Consulate General of Pakistan in Montreal

Consulate General of Pakistan in Vancouver

Opening Hours

Pakistan Embassy in Ottawa

Consulate General of Pakistan in Toronto

Consulate General of Pakistan in Montreal

Consulate General of Pakistan in Vancouver

  • Document Submission: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Document Pickup: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) Appointments are required for all consular services.

Note: All Pakistani diplomatic missions in Canada observe closures on weekends and official public holidays of both Pakistan and Canada.

Payment methods

Fees are payable in Canadian dollars by exact cash, money order, or bank draft made out to the respective Pakistan Embassy or Consulate. Credit cards and personal checks are not accepted.

Important Notes on Consular Jurisdictions

High Commission for Pakistan (Pakistan Embassy) – Ottawa Serves: Ottawa & National Capital Region (613 & 819), Manitoba

Consulate General of Pakistan – Toronto Serves: Ontario (including Halton, Peel, York, Durham, Hamilton, Kitchener, London, Windsor, Waterloo, Brampton)

Consulate General of Pakistan – Montreal Serves: Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island

Consulate General of Pakistan – Vancouver Serves: Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Yukon

 

List of Consular Services at the Pakistan Embassy in Canada

  • Passport issuance, renewal, and emergency travel documents 
  • Visa processing for Canadian and foreign nationals (tourist, business, student, work)
  • Notarial services and power of attorney (in-person and digital via NADRA) 
  • Authentication and legalization of Canadian documents (apostille accepted via provincial authorities) Civil registration (birth, marriage, death) 
  • Consular registration and assistance for Pakistani citizens in Canada 
  • Police character certificates for visa or immigration 
  • Support for Pakistani nationals in distress 
  • Repatriation and transfer of human remains when required
  •  

Document Authentication Process - Apostille

As of January 11, 2024, both Canada and Pakistan are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, eliminating the need for traditional legalization of public documents between the two countries.

This means Canadian public documents intended for use in Pakistan, such as birth and marriage certificates, diplomas, police clearances, and business records, no longer need to be legalized at the Pakistan Embassy or its consulates in Canada. Instead, they require an apostille issued by Canadian authorities.

Apostilles are granted by Global Affairs Canada or by designated provincial competent authorities in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, depending on where the document was issued or notarized.

Unofficial documents, such as copies or translations, must be notarized by a Canadian notary public before they can be apostilled.

Once apostilled, these documents are legally recognized in Pakistan for administrative, legal, or business purposes; no further legalization by the Pakistan consular offices is needed.

Similarly, Pakistan documents intended for use in Canada must now be apostilled by Poland authorities before being valid for use within Canadian institutions or government bodies.

Apostille Process for Canadian Documents Intended for Pakistan

All Documents
When is an apostille needed?
Canadian public documents to be used in Pakistan require a single-step apostille issued by the appropriate Canadian authority.
Description
  • Birth certificates
  • Marriage certificates
  • Death certificates
  • Educational documents (diplomas, transcripts)
  • Police clearance certificates (not issued by RCMP)
  • Business and commercial documents (contracts, powers of attorney)
  • Legal documents (wills, affidavits)
  • Immigration and travel documents
  • Corporate records and export documents
Who can apply?
Canadian citizens and foreign nationals residing in Canada who intend to use Canadian-issued documents in Pakistan.
Fee (in CAD)
Apostille: Free via Global Affairs Canada (or provincial authorities) Notary: CAD 35–75 Provincial apostille cost: CAD 10–65, depending on the province, e.g., (Ontario: CAD 16 for notarial documents, CAD 32 for public documents, Quebec: CAD 65 per document, Alberta: CAD 25 per document, British Columbia: CAD 20 per document, Saskatchewan: CAD 50 per document)
Processing Time
Notarial processing (if required) typically takes about 5 business days. Apostille issuance by Global Affairs Canada or provincial authorities may take 10–20 business days.
Criteria for apostille
  • The document must be originally issued in Canada.
  • It must bear an original, recognized signature and, if applicable, an official seal.
  • The document must be authenticated by the competent Canadian authority with an apostille certificate.
  • The content must not violate Pakistan’s legal principles or requirements.
How to submit
  • Determine the appropriate apostille authority:

Apostilles are issued by Global Affairs Canada (for federal documents and for provinces/territories that have not designated their own apostille authority) or by provincial authorities in provinces like Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

  • Prepare documents, ensuring all signatures and seals are visible.
  • Include a self-addressed, prepaid return envelope.
  • Mail documents to the relevant office. For Global Affairs Canada, send to:

Global Affairs Canada
Authentication Services Section (JLAC)
2421 Lancaster Road
Ottawa, ON K1B 4L5
Canada

  • Clearly include your name, address, and phone number inside the package.

Submission Notes

Courier waybills with account numbers are not accepted; only prepaid shipping labels or envelopes. Notarization must be completed before submission if the document is unofficial, a translation, or lacks formal certification. If unsure, notarization prior to apostille submission is recommended to avoid rejection.
Pakistan Embassy in Canada

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Notarial and Legalisation Services at the Pakistan Embassy in Canada

The High Commission of Pakistan in Ottawa, along with its Consulates in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, provides notarial and attestation services for documents intended for use in Pakistan. These services are available by appointment only.

Scope of Services

Consular services include:

  • Attestation of Power of Attorney (in-person or digital via NADRA)
  • Legalisation of Pakistani documents (CNIC, passport copies, academic certificates)
  • Attestation of Canadian documents (birth, marriage, death, driver’s licence, bank forms)
  • Life certificates and pension papers
  • Police character certificates
  • Gift undertakings and affidavits
  • Death certificate and repatriation documentation
 

Apostille and Provincial Notarization

As both Pakistan and Canada are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, many Canadian documents can be notarized by a provincial notary public and apostilled by Global Affairs Canada or provincial authorities. Embassy attestation is only required when:

  • A Pakistani authority specifically requests consular attestation
  • Apostille is not accepted for certain legal or property matters
  • Documents involve Power of Attorney for use in Pakistan
 

Appointment & Requirements

  • Appointment required; walk-ins not accepted
  • Valid government-issued photo ID must be presented
  • Original documents only; pre-signed or incomplete forms are rejected
  • Name on ID must match the document being attested
 

Fees & Payment

  • Fees vary by document type and consulate location
  • Typical fees range from CAD $20 to $60 per document
  • Payment accepted in Canadian dollars by cash or debit card
  • Credit cards, cheques, and money orders are not accepted

Travel and Passport Services at the Pakistan Embassy in Canada

The Embassy and Consulates issue Machine Readable Passports (MRPs) in line with ICAO standards. Manual passports are no longer processed.

Passport Services Offered

  • New passport issuance and renewal for adults and minors
  • Emergency passports for urgent travel
  • Passport services for single-parent minors
  • Online renewal available for eligible applicants
 

Application Process

  • In-person biometric data capture required
  • No need to bring photos or fill forms—done on-site
  • Required documents:
    • CNIC/NICOP
    • Previous passport
    • Proof of residence in Canada
 

Passport Fees & Validity – Pakistan Embassy in Canada

  • Adult Passport (36 pages)
    • Validity: 5 years
    • Fee: CAD $72
  • Adult Passport (36 pages)
    • Validity: 10 years
    • Fee: CAD $108
  • Minor Passport (under 18)
    • Validity: 5 years
    • Fee: CAD $72
  • Emergency Passport
    • Validity: 1 year
    • Fee: CAD $45–60 (depending on urgency and case specifics)
  • Fees vary by page count and validity
  • Payment accepted in Canadian dollars by cash or debit card
  • Credit cards and cheques are not accepted
 

Processing Times

  • Standard MRPs: 4–6 weeks
  • Emergency passports: 1–3 business days, subject to urgency and documentation
 

Travel Advisory for Pakistani Citizens in Canada

Pakistani citizens must travel with a valid Pakistani passport when entering or leaving Pakistan. Using only a Canadian passport may result in delays or entry issues. Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity beyond your travel date. For minors and dual nationals, check entry and transit requirements in advance.

 

Immigration and Citizenship Services at the Pakistan Embassy in Canada

The High Commission of Pakistan in Ottawa and its Consulates in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver provide a range of immigration and citizenship services for Pakistani nationals, Canadian residents, and foreign applicants seeking to travel, work, study, or settle in Pakistan. All services are processed by appointment, and most require in-person submission.

Visa Applications for Pakistan

Visa-Free Entry for Canadians

Canadian citizens must obtain a visa to enter Pakistan. However, Pakistan offers an e-Visa system for simplified access.

Visa Categories

Pakistan offers several visa types:

  • Tourist Visa
  • Business Visa
  • Work Visa
  • Student Visa
  • Family Visit Visa
  • Investor Visa
  • Pilgrim Visa (Sikh Yatrees)
 

Application Process

  • All visa applications must be submitted online via the Pakistan Online Visa Portal
  • No manual visa applications are accepted at consulates
  • Required documents vary by visa type and include:
    • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
    • Recent passport-size photograph
    • Proof of travel purpose (invitation letter, hotel booking, etc.)
    • Proof of financial means
    • Travel itinerary
    • Health insurance (recommended)
 

Fees & Processing Time

  • Tourist Visa (single entry): approx. CAD $60–$100
  • Business Visa: approx. CAD $100–$150
  • Processing time: typically 7–15 business days, but may vary based on visa type and documentation
 

Citizenship Services

Renunciation of Pakistani Citizenship

Pakistani nationals who wish to renounce their citizenship must:

  • Submit a Renunciation Form available from the consulate
  • Provide:
    • Original Pakistani passport and CNIC/NICOP
    • Proof of foreign nationality
    • Two passport-size photographs
    • Renunciation fee: approx. CAD $100–$150
  • Processing time: 6–12 weeks, subject to approval from the Ministry of Interior in Pakistan
 

Child Birth Registration

Children born in Canada to Pakistani parents can be registered as Pakistani citizens by descent. Requirements include:

  • Child’s Canadian birth certificate
  • Parents’ Pakistani passports and CNIC/NICOP
  • Completed S-Form (available at consulate)
  • Fee: approx. CAD $20–$40
  • Processing time: 2–4 weeks
 

Travel Documents for Pakistani Citizens

Emergency Passport

Issued in urgent cases such as loss, theft, or immediate travel needs. Valid for 1 year.

Requirements:

  • Police report (for lost/stolen passport)
  • CNIC/NICOP
  • Proof of travel urgency (e.g., flight ticket)
  • Fee: CAD $45–$60
  • Processing time: 1–3 business days
 

Appointments, Fees & Processing

  • All services require prior appointment via phone or email; walk-ins are not accepted
  • Fees are payable in Canadian dollars by cash or debit card only
  • Processing times vary:
    • Visa: 7–15 days
    • Renunciation: 6–12 weeks
    • Birth registration: 2–4 weeks
    • Emergency passport: 1–3 days
 

Applicant Guidance

  • Apply well in advance, especially for visas or citizenship services requiring documentation from Pakistan
  • Ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity
  • Keep copies of all submitted documents and receipts
  • For minors, obtain notarized consent from both parents if applicable
  • Use the Pakistan Online Visa Portal for all visa applications

Pakistan Embassy FAQS

Pakistan is a full member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Canadian public documents only need to be apostilled by Global Affairs Canada or a provincial competent authority. Embassy legalization by the Pakistan Embassy in Ottawa is no longer required.

An apostille is a form of international certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use in another Hague Convention country, like Pakistan. It replaces the traditional two-step process of authentication and embassy legalization with one simplified step issued by Canadian authorities.

No. Since Pakistan accepts apostilles under the Hague Convention, embassy legalization is no longer part of the process. With DAC handling notarization and apostille services, there’s no need to visit the embassy in person.

Yes, all documents (except long-form birth certificates) must be notarized by a Canadian notary public before it can be apostilled. DAC coordinates notarization to ensure full compliance.

Canadian documents commonly apostilled for Pakistan include birth and marriage certificates, RCMP police clearances, academic degrees, transcripts, powers of attorney, business registration records, corporate resolutions, and export-related documents. DAC ensures these are properly prepared, notarized if needed, and submitted to the appropriate Canadian apostille authority.

Processing times vary depending on the issuing province and document type. Most apostille requests through DAC are completed within 5 to 15 business days, with faster timelines possible for some documents. Translation services may add 2–5 days if required.

Yes. DAC provides certified translation services from English to any other required language and vice versa. However, for this context, English documents for Pakistan do not typically require translation before an apostille, as English is a widely understood language in Pakistan, though the specific requirements of the receiving authority or embassy should always be verified to ensure compliance.

Your diploma will first need to be notarized if it’s not done already by a public authority, in the appropriate jurisdiction for the apostille. After that, it will be apostilled by Global Affairs Canada or a provincial authority-we use the provincial authority in Ottawa. DAC can assist with each of these steps.

Yes. The Pakistan Embassy in Ottawa offers consular services including visa processing for Canadian and foreign nationals, passport renewal for Pakistan citizens, and travel documentation such as tourist and student visas. Applicants must submit required forms and supporting documents through the Embassy, often by appointment. It’s important to note that while DAC does not assist with visa services, we ensure your Canadian documents, such as police clearances, medical letters, or financial statements, are apostilled and translated as required for Pakistan immigration or travel applications. For the most current visa requirements, consult the Embassy’s official website or contact the consular office directly.

Simply request a free quote through our website. DAC will guide you step-by-step, helping with notarization (if needed), and obtaining the apostille.

IN CONCLUSION

You should now have a clearer understanding of the requirements, fees, and procedures to obtain visas, passports, document legalization, and other consular services from the Pakistan Embassy in Canada.

Navigating embassy processes and government departments can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you are planning to travel, work, study, or immigrate to Pakistan, or if you need to authenticate important documents for official use.

At Document Authentication Canada (DAC), we simplify and streamline the entire process for you. We coordinate closely with the Pakistan Embassy in Ottawa and its Consulates to ensure your documents are correctly prepared, submitted, and returned to you on time.

Whether you need assistance with Pakistan visa applications, passport renewals, document legalization, or citizenship matters, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today at 613-229-6674 for a personalized quote and a free document review!

Pakistan Embassy in Canada

About The Author

Muna Hasen, Director of Customer Experience

Muna Hasen brings a strong background in legal support and community engagement. Born and raised in Ottawa, she has gained valuable experience both across Canada and internationally. Muna is committed to client-centered service, ensuring every interaction is guided by clarity, professionalism, and trust.