Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Pakistan Register Travel insurance Destinations
Last updated: ET
Still valid: ET
Latest updates: Safety and security - Removal of information on nationwide demonstrations
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Suspension of flights from Pakistan
On April 22, 2021, at 11:30 p.m. (EDT), the Government of Canada suspended flights from Pakistan for a period of 30 days.
During that period, passengers who travel to Canada from Pakistan via an indirect route will need to obtain a pre-departure negative COVID-19 molecular test result from a third country before continuing their journey to Canada.
Travellers who have previously tested positive for COVID-19 must provide proof of a positive COVID-19 molecular test conducted between 14 and 90 days prior to departure, instead of a negative COVID-19 molecular test. This proof must be obtained in a third country before the continuation of the journey to Canada. You might need to seek entry and stay in a third country for at least 14 days.
Keep in mind:
- certain countries do not allow entry or transit from passengers arriving from Pakistan or from passengers who have previously tested positive to COVID-19
- COVID-19 testing for passengers in transit might not be available in all international airports or third countries
- if you test positive during transit, you may be quarantined or sent back to your point of departure
Carefully consider your itinerary, transit options and entry requirements for third countries.
News release – Transport Canada
PAKISTAN - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Pakistan due to the unpredictable security situation. There is a threat of terrorism, civil unrest, sectarian violence and kidnapping.
Regional advisory - Avoid all travel
- the area within 50 km of the border with Afghanistan
- the areas within 10 km of the borders with China, India and Iran, as well as the Line of Control, except:
- the Wagah official border crossing point and the road (Grand Trunk Road) leading there
- the Khunjerab Pass official border crossing and the road (Karakorum Highway) leading there
- the Pakistan-administered Kashmir
- the province of Balochistan
- the section of the Karakoram Highway from Mansehra to Chilas, via Battagram, Besham City, Dasu and Sazin
- the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, except the following districts:
- Haripur
- Abbottabad
- Mansehra
- Buner
- Swat
- Chitral
Karachi - Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid non-essential travel to the city of Karachi, due to to violence and the risk of terrorism.
Safety and security
Safety and security
The Government of Canada may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in areas where:
- there are serious security concerns
- the Government of Pakistan prohibits entry
- advance permission is required for entry
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. You must wear a face covering in public spaces.
If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Pakistan. The security situation is fragile and unpredictable. Several terrorist groups are present and operate across the country. Incidents are typically attributed to extremism, ethnic divisions, sectarian strife, regional political disputes and the situation in neighbouring Afghanistan. Bombings, shootings and other terrorist attacks have been directed at a wide range of targets and have caused many deaths and injuries.
In the formerly Federal Administered Tribal Area (FATA) and in the province of Balochistan, attacks are frequent and are often directed at security and military forces.
Further attacks are likely. Attacks can take many forms, including:
- targeted killings and kidnappings
- armed assaults
- suicide bombings
- improvised explosive devices
Some attacks involve detailed planning to maximize casualties through multiple and consecutive explosions. Targets could include:
- sects or minority groups
- government and military assets and personnel
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
- elections-related events and polling stations
- civil aviation facilities, including aircrafts
There is an increased risk of attack during religious holidays and days of national significance, such as:
- National Day (March 23)
- Independence Day (August 14)
- the Islamic month of Muharram (particularly on the day of Ashura)
- the Muslim holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha
Expect heightened security measures and associated disruptions during these periods.
Islamabad
In Islamabad, you should:
- keep a low profile, particularly in areas regularly frequented by foreigners
- avoid the Lal Masjid Mosque (also known as the Red Mosque)
- be particularly cautious in or around western-style restaurants and shopping centres
- only stay in hotels that have stringent security measures in place, including metal detectors and closed security perimeters
Border area with India
The level of tension between Pakistan and India is susceptible to sudden changes. You could experience difficulties when travelling between the two countries and may be subject to scrutiny if officials from either country become aware that you have recently travelled to the other.
The security situation in the Kashmir region, especially along the Line of Control (LoC), which separates India-administered Kashmir in the south from Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the north, and along the working boundary that continues south toward Sialkot, remains volatile. Since September 2016, cross-border gunfire and shelling have been occurring sporadically along the LoC.
Although the Wagah border crossing linking Lahore, Pakistan, to Amritsar, India, is regularly used by international travellers, it remains vulnerable to attack. Security measures are in place. Visitors may experience long delays.
Border areas with Afghanistan, China and Iran
Border areas with Afghanistan, China and Iran often experience terrorist activity, smuggling and violence. With the exception of official border crossings, foreigners are prohibited from travelling within 50 kilometres of the border with Afghanistan.
Balochistan
The security situation in the province of Balochistan remains unstable, due to a long-standing nationalist insurgency and government counter-insurgency operations. Insurgents and militants may target commercial spaces and foreigners, in particular those associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Attacks on police and security forces occur frequently. Balochistan, which borders Iran and Afghanistan, is also a known route for smugglers.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province
The security situation in Central and Western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, including its capital Peshawar is unstable due to terrorism, sectarian and political violence and high levels of crime. North Waziristan, South Waziristan, and the Khyber District are particularly volatile and continue to be impacted by the security situation in Afghanistan. Attacks on security and military forces occur frequently. Civil unrest also takes place regularly.
Karachi
Certain sectors of Karachi experience high levels of violence. These include:
- Lyari
- Malir
- Quaidabad
- Orangi Town
Extremist groups are present in some parts of the city and there have been terrorist attacks in recent years on high-profile targets, including the Stock Exchange and Chinese Consulate. Carefully plan any travel to, or in the city. Strikes and protest marches tend to take place in central areas of Karachi. These events may cause travel disruptions throughout the city and lead to violent civil unrest.
Military activity
Stay away from areas where military or militant activity is taking place.
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Demonstrations take place regularly. Demonstrations can take place without warning, and some may take on an anti-western tone. They have the potential to suddenly turn violent. Deaths, injuries and widespread violence have occurred at such events. Demonstrations can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Crime
Kidnapping
Kidnapping for ransom can occur, especially in Balochistan, Punjab and Sindh. Pakistani citizens are particularly at risk. Express kidnapping also takes place.
- Use varied and unpredictable routes and schedules when moving from one place to another.
Petty Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Cell phones, credit cards and passports are favourite targets. Credit card fraud is common.
- Ensure that your personal belongings, passports other travel documents are secure at all times
- Avoid showing signs of affluence
- If travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked.
- Avoid travelling after dusk, particularly in rural areas where road conditions are unsafe.
- Make arrangements to be met at the airport, especially if arriving after dark.
- Verify flight and airport operation details before travelling.
- Remain aware of the security situation on routes to and from airports.
Women’s Safety
Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Gender-based violence is common in Pakistan. Honour killings and forced marriages are frequently reported.
Forced marriages
Forced marriage affecting foreigners occurs. It sometimes occurs without the affected person’s prior knowledge or consent.
If you’re in Canada
If you’re in Canada and you believe that you’re being forced to travel overseas or to marry, you should call your local police for assistance.
If you’re in Pakistan
Some Canadians have been forced into marital arrangements in Pakistan and have been detained against their will and subjected to threats, intimidation and violence by family members.
Family members may retain passports to prevent victims from returning to Canada.
- Keep digital or physical copies of your travel documents in a safe place.
If you’re in Pakistan and you believe that you’re being forced to marry, contact the High Commission of Canada to Pakistan in Islamabad. You may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Useful links:
- General information and advice about forced marriage
- Safe travel guide for women
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Fraud
Business deals can involve extortion and corruption. All business disputes, including those involving criminality, are subject to Pakistani legal proceedings. The High Commission of Canada cannot intervene on a Canadian’s behalf in a private legal matter.
Trekking and climbing
No trekking is allowed in the closed zones located near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and near the Line of Control between Pakistan- and India-administered Kashmir. Trekking permits are required by the Government of Pakistan for peaks over 6000m, and in most national parks. Access to roads are limited, and often in very poor condition.
Only experienced climbers should go to the northern mountains of the Himalayas, Hindukush or Karakoram. Because of their great height, the Karakoram Mountains experience heavy glaciation, particularly on the southern, more humid slopes.
If you intend on engaging in trekking activities:
- never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
- buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation from remote areas
- confirm that the air ambulance firm contracted has a local agent in Pakistan who can ensure that local rescue teams provide the required emergency services
- ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
- ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
- know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
- obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and don’t venture off marked trails or slopes
In case of air evacuation, advance payment of the total evacuation cost is required from the insurance company before rescue teams will perform rescue operations. The Government of Canada is unable to intervene, provide, or pay for rescue services.
Useful links:
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Road safety
In many urban areas, roads may be narrow, crowded and poorly lit, with limited signage. Outside major highways and main cities, roads are mostly unpaved and four-wheel drive vehicles may be necessary.
Drivers can be aggressive and reckless, and they do not respect traffic laws. Accidents are common. If an accident occurs and you feel that your safety is threatened, leave the area and report the accident to the nearest police station.
Checkpoints may be set up without warning.
Karakoram highway/Northern region
Travel on mountain roads only during daylight hours. Sections can be very narrow with precipitous drops and are sometimes partially obstructed by rock and earth slides. Consult local authorities regarding road openings, particularly during the monsoon rains and winter seasons.
Public transportation
For safety and security reasons, don’t use public transportation, including taxis and trains. There are frequent rail accidents due to low safety and maintenance standards. Railways have been targets for riots and terrorist attacks.
If you must use public transportation:
- use bus lines that provide two drivers if you’re travelling long distances
- use radio-controlled taxis from reputable companies
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Pakistani authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Pakistan.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Canadians must be in possession of a visa to visit Pakistan.
Work visa: Required
Tourism visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required
Do not overstay the duration of your visa. The status or nature of the visa cannot be changed while in Pakistan.
Journalists
Journalists may have to provide an itinerary to get a visa; the itinerary should be strictly followed during the stay.
Restricted zones
Additional documentation may be required to visit some regions in Pakistan. Check with the High Commission for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Canada for entry requirements for the regions you intend to visit.
Polio
If you remain in Pakistan for more than four weeks, you must show proof of polio vaccination when leaving the country. The proof of vaccination must have been obtained within the 12 months prior to your departure.
See Health for more information on polio.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Polio: Advice for travellers - February 4, 2020
- Extensively drug-resistant typhoid in Pakistan - October 10, 2019
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites (e.g., spending a large amount of time outdoors) while travelling in regions with risk of Japanese encephalitis.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Polio *Proof of vaccination*
Polio is present in this country. Polio can be prevented by vaccination, which is part of the routine vaccines for children in Canada.
Recommendation:
- Be sure that your vaccination against polio is up to date.
- One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult.
Proof of vaccination:
If you are staying more than 4 weeks in this country, you may need to show proof of polio vaccination when you leave the country.
Make sure that the polio vaccination is documented on the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis. This is the only document accepted as proof of vaccination.In Canada, they are provided at Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres.
Carry the certificate as proof of vaccination.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in South Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in South Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Food and drinks on aircraft, trains, and ferries may be exposed to contaminated water from local sources. Use a safe source of water, such as bottled water, for drinking, hand washing and brushing teeth.
Cholera
Risk
Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.
To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions.
Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:
- visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
- visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring
Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in South Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that typically causes fever, bleeding under the skin, and pain. Risk is generally low for most travellers. It is spread to humans though contact with infected animal blood or bodily fluids, or from a tick bite. Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue fever is a risk to travellers year-round. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, global numbers have been steeply rising again.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Leishmaniasis, cutaneous and mucosal
Cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis causes skin sores and ulcers. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly.
Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Southern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Avian Influenza
There have been human cases of avian influenza in this country.
Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds. In rare cases, it can infect people.
Protect yourself:
- avoid high risk areas such as poultry farms and live animal markets
- avoid areas where poultry may be slaughtered
- avoid contact with birds (alive or dead)
- avoid surfaces that may have bird droppings or secretions on them
- ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs, are well cooked
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is available in a small number of hospitals and clinics in some major cities, including in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. Basic non-emergency medical care is available in major cities but is limited in rural areas. Emergency services, including ambulances, are virtually non-existent in most of Pakistan. Most medical facilities require prepayment in cash.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Death Penalty
The death penalty may be imposed for more than two dozen criminal offences, including drug trafficking, murder, illegal gathering, blasphemy and rape. Executions in Pakistan occur by hanging.
Drugs and alcohol
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect the death penalty, jail sentences, heavy fines and/or deportation.
The possession and consumption of alcohol is prohibited. Transgressors may be punished by detention or other penalties.
Religious proselytizing
Religious proselytizing is not permitted and may lead to accusations of blasphemy, which is considered a capital crime.
Pork Products
Pork products are illegal in Pakistan.
Photography
Photographing government buildings, military installations and airports is prohibited.
Ask permission before taking photographs of local residents.
LGBTQ2 travellers
Pakistani law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face up to life imprisonment. LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Pakistan.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Pakistan.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Pakistan, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
If you were born in Pakistan, or if your father was born in Pakistan, you should confirm your citizenship status with the High Commission of Pakistan in Ottawa as you could be considered a Pakistani citizen while on Pakistani soil.
Dress and behaviour
The country’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs.
To avoid offending local sensitivities:
- dress conservatively
- behave discreetly
- respect religious and social traditions
Shorts are considered inappropriate attire for both men and women, particularly in remote locations. Women should consider carrying a headscarf with them at all times while travelling in Pakistan.
Couples should avoid physical contact, such as holding hands, in public. It is illegal for heterosexual couples to live together without being married.
Ramadan
During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), refrain from drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. In 2021, Ramadan is expected to begin on or around April 12.
Driving
Vehicles drive on the left.
You should carry an international driving permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
Money
The currency is the Pakistani rupee (PKR). The economy is primarily cash based. Credit cards are accepted by some larger establishments. Currency can be exchanged at all international airports. ATMs are available in main cities, but may not accept foreign debit cards.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Seismic activity
Severe earthquakes can occur in the western and northern regions of the country. Landslides are possible in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur after the initial quake. Transportation, health and telecommunications services may be affected, and land travel could be disrupted.
- Monitor local news reports
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monsoon and cyclones
The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from June to September. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. It can also lead to landslides. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.
Flash flooding can occur, including in densely populated areas. There is a risk of flooding along rivers, including the Indus River.
Pakistan’s coastline is subject to tropical cyclones, which are usually accompanied by high winds and heavy rain. During any storm, flash floods and mudslides as well as damage to transportation routes and infrastructure may occur.
- Monitor regional weather forecasts, including those of the Pakistan Meteorological Department
- Follow the advice of local authorities
More about hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
Avalanches
In mountainous regions, avalanches present a risk and have resulted in fatalities. Monitor local media and weather forecasts and follow the advice of local authorities.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 15
- medical assistance: 115 / 1122
- firefighters: 16
Consular assistance
To limit the spread of COVID-19, the Consulates of Canada in Karachi and Lahore are only providing emergency assistance, in coordination with the High Commission of Canada in Pakistan, in Islamabad. If you need consular assistance, contact the High Commission.
Islamabad - High Commission of Canada
Karachi - Consulate of Canada
Lahore - Consulate of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Pakistan and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.