Pakistan Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
PAKISTAN - AVOID NON-ESSENTIAL TRAVEL
Avoid non-essential travel to Pakistan with exceptions (see below). The security situation is unpredictable. There is a threat of terrorist attacks, kidnapping and sectarian violence.
Regional advisory - Avoid all travel
Avoid all travel to :
- the area within 10 km of all international borders, except the Wagah official border crossing point
- the Kashmir region, including Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan
- the province of Balochistan and its capital city, Quetta
- the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, including Swat, the city of Peshawar, Khyber, North Waziristan and South Waziristan
Islamabad - Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Islamabad due to the threat 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 parts of the country due to security concerns, in areas where the Government of Pakistan prohibits entry or where advance permission is required for entry. We strongly recommend that Canadians sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and include personal and professional contact details.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Pakistan and the security situation is fragile and unpredictable. Several terrorist groups are present and operate in Pakistan. Bombings and other terrorist attacks in early 2017 have been directed at a wide range of targets, both civilian and military, and have caused many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.
Such incidents are typically attributed to extremism, ethnic divisions, sectarian strife, regional political disputes and the situation in neighbouring Afghanistan. Due to the high risk of attacks, which can vary from day to day, heightened security measures are in effect.
Terrorist attacks range from targeted killings and kidnapping, to armed assaults against heavily guarded facilities, such as Pakistani military installations. Suicide bombings and detonated improvised explosive devices are common occurrences. Some attacks involve detailed planning to maximize casualties through multiple and consecutive explosions.
Attackers frequently target Pakistani government institutions, public areas and places frequented by foreigners such as airports, hotels, markets, transportation hubs, schools, Western-style fast food outlets, restaurants, religious sites and popular trekking sites. Large cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar are particularly vulnerable to indiscriminate attacks, including bombings.
Avoid crowded places such as pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, restaurants and places of worship. Remain extremely vigilant at all times, keep a low profile and exercise caution, particularly in areas regularly frequented by foreigners. Monitor local news reports and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Civil aviation in Pakistan, including aircraft and facilities, has been the target of bombings and other attacks. Verify flight and airport operation details before travelling, and remain aware of the security situation on routes to and from airports.
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) and the Muslim holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Expect heightened security measures and associated disruptions during these periods.
Only stay in hotels that have stringent security measures in place, including metal detectors; however, no location should be considered free of risks.
Report any suspicious-looking package or behaviour immediately to the nearest authorities.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province (see Advisory)
The security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Province and FATA in northwestern Pakistan is unstable. Swat, North Waziristan, South Waziristan, and the Khyber Agency are particularly volatile. While the Government of Pakistan’s security operations in FATA have improved security in both FATA and KPK, they have also resulted in a number of civilian casualties. Bombings, shootings and mass demonstrations occur regularly, resulting in deaths and injuries. Lawlessness is also a serious concern in several areas. Curfews are periodically imposed.
Border area with India (see Advisory)
On August 5, 2019, the Government of India announced that it is changing the constitutional status of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. Since then, tensions between the governments of India and Pakistan over the disputed territory have increased. Movement restrictions in the Pakistan-administered Kashmir may be put in place without notice. Monitor local news and follow the instructions of local authorities.
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 (see Advisory)
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 in Gilgit-Baltistan within 50 kilometres of the border with Afghanistan.
The security situation in the province of Balochistan remains unstable, due to a long-standing nationalist insurgency and government counter-insurgency operations. Balochistan, which borders Iran and Afghanistan, is also a known route for smugglers.
Lahore
There is an elevated threat of terrorist attack in Lahore. Major terrorist attacks in February and March 2017 caused deaths and injuries. On July 10, 2017, the U.S. Consulate General in Lahore issued a Security Message advising its citizens that “there is a heightened threat of a terrorist attack in Lahore. According to media reports, government buildings, tourist areas, religious sites, and hotels frequented by foreigners are particularly vulnerable, and may be the targets of a terrorist operation.” Avoid these areas. Be extremely vigilant if you must travel to Lahore.
Karachi
Karachi continues to experience extremely high levels of violence, mainly due to organized crime, the political situation and government security operations. Extremist groups such as the Taliban are present in some parts of the city. Violence is common in the districts of Baldia, Gulberg, Korangi, Jamshed, Landhi, Liaquatabad, Liyari, Orangi, Saddar, Shah Faisal Colony and SITE, and could spread to other areas. Strikes and protest marches may be organized in response to violent incidents and tend to take place in central areas of Karachi. These events may cause travel disruptions throughout the city and cause additional violence.
Islamabad
There are extensive security measures in place at government installations in the downtown area of Islamabad known as the Red Zone, at the Best Western, Holiday Inn, Marriott and Serena hotels and at the Margalla Motel. Be particularly cautious in or around the Centaurus and Safa Gold malls; remain aware of your surroundings and do not loiter when visiting Kohsar Market. Avoid the Lal Masjid Mosque (also known as the Red Mosque) at all times.
If you decide to travel to Islamabad, you should stay in secure, guarded accommodations and maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times. Ensure that you are met at the airport by a known local contact or driver arranged through your local contact or a major hotel.
Military activity
Stay away from areas where military or militant activity is taking place.
Kidnapping
There is a very high risk to foreigners of being kidnapped throughout Pakistan. Kidnapping for ransom or political purposes is a rising phenomenon and has targeted foreigners, including diplomats, journalists and aid workers, some of whom have been killed as a result of kidnapping. Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times and use varied and unpredictable routes and schedules when moving from one place to another.
“Express kidnappings,” where the person is kidnapped for a couple of hours and forced to purchase goods and/or to withdraw money from an automatic banking machine, occasionally occur in Pakistan, most particularly in Karachi.
Demonstrations and civil unrest
Demonstrations and civil unrest occur periodically throughout the country and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. Deaths, injuries and widespread violence have occurred at such events. The political situation, ethnic and sectarian conflicts, power cuts and the rising price of commodities are the primary contributors to unrest.
- Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
- Follow the advice of local authorities
- Monitor local media
- Minimize time spent in places frequented by foreigners
Crime
Violent crime is commonplace, particularly in Karachi. Armed robbery, random shootings and armed carjackings occur, mostly in major urban centres. Banditry is common in rural areas of Sindh and Punjab.
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.
If travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked.
Petty crime is also common. Avoid showing signs of affluence and ensure that your personal belongings, passports other travel documents are secure at all times. Cell phones, credit cards and passports are favourite targets.
Spiked food and drinks
Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Bottled drinks can reduce the risk of spiking, however, some bottled water in Pakistan may be contaminated. The Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources produces regular reports listing safe and unsafe bottled water brand names.
Forced marriages
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 are in Canada and you believe that you are being forced to travel overseas or to marry, you should call the police for assistance. If you are in Pakistan and you believe that you are being forced to marry, contact the High Commission of Canada to Pakistan in Islamabad. You may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.
Canadian women may consult our publication entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Safe-Travel Guide.
Regional travel
Avoid overland travel into Sindh province unless police are notified well in advance and are able to make security arrangements.
Fraud
Business deals can involve extortion and corruption, mainly at the hands of tribal and criminal groups. 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 LoC between Pakistan- and India-administered Kashmir. Only experienced trekkers 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. The extensive presence of glaciers has led to the range being referred to as the Third Pole.
The Pakistan Tourism Development Cooperation provides current trekking and mountaineering information. Only use licensed guides and tourist agencies.
If you intend on engaging in trekking activities:
- never practice these activities alone;
- 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 are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard;
- advise 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;
- sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad service; and
- obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not 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 or provide (or pay for) rescue services.
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
Vehicles drive on the left. Road conditions are poor. In urban areas, roads are narrow, crowded and poorly lit, with limited signage. Outside major urban centres, roads are mostly unpaved. Many vehicles do not have proper lights for night driving. Accidents are common. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are strongly recommended. 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.
Public transportation
Travel to Hunza via the Karakoram highway only during daylight hours. Sections of the road are very narrow with precipitous drops and are sometimes partially obstructed by rock and earth slides. If travelling long distance by bus, use bus lines that provide two drivers.
Do not use public transportation or taxis.
You should also avoid travelling by train, as there are frequent rail accidents due to low safety and maintenance standards. Railways are also targets for riots and terrorist attacks.
General safety information
Carry copies of your passport and visa at all times, while ensuring that the originals are valid and readily accessible.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
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 foreign diplomatic missions and consulates 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.
Departure fee
Travellers are charged a departure fee, payable only in cash; travellers unable to pay may be denied boarding. Check with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority or their travel agent to determine the exact fee amount.
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, within the last 12 months, when leaving the country. 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
- Polio: vaccine advice - August 14, 2019
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
- Extensively drug-resistant typhoid in Pakistan - January 30, 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 and malaria.
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.
Zika virus infection
Zika virus infection is a risk in this country. The mosquito that spreads the virus is found here.
Travel recommendations:
All travellers should protect themselves from mosquito bites and other diseases spread by insects.
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
Basic non-emergency medical care is available in major Pakistani cities but is limited in rural areas. Facilities in the cities vary in quality and range of services, resources and sanitation. Most medical facilities require prepayment in cash.
Emergency services are virtually non-existent in most of Pakistan. Emergency and ambulance services are very limited, lack medical equipment and are not necessarily staffed by medical personnel.
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.
Driving
An international driving permit is required.
Illegal or restricted activities
Religious proselytizing is not permitted.
The possession and consumption of alcohol is prohibited. Transgressors may be punished by detention or other penalties. Penalties for illegal drug possession, use or trafficking are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences, heavy fines and deportation.
The death penalty may be imposed for more than two dozen criminal offences, including drug trafficking, murder, illegal gathering, blasphemy and rape. A moratorium on executions was suspended in late 2014; over 300 convicts were executed in 2015. Executions in Pakistan occur by hanging.
Couples should avoid physical contact, such as holding hands, in public. It is illegal for heterosexual couples to live together without being married.
Pork products are illegal in Pakistan.
Photographing government buildings, military installations and airports is prohibited.
LGBTQ2 travellers
The laws of Pakistan prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Convicted offenders 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.
Ask permission before taking photographs of local residents.
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 2020, Ramadan is expected to begin on or around April 23.
Dress conservatively, behave discreetly and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. 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. Consult Her Own Way: A Woman’s Safe-Travel Guide for travel safety information specifically aimed at Canadian women.
Money
The currency is the Pakistani rupee (PKR). The economy mainly operates on a cash-only basis. Credit cards and traveller’s cheques are accepted by a few establishments in larger cities. Currency can be exchanged at all international airports. Automated banking machines are available.
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 up to one week 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
Avalanches occasionally occur in the mountains.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 15
- medical assistance: 115 / 1122
- firefighters: 16
Consular assistance
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, in Islamabad, 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, express 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.