Canada Visa RequirementsFor Afghanistan passport holders

Canada has accepted tens of thousands of Afghan refugees since the Taliban takeover in August 2021, creating one of the largest Afghan diaspora communities in North America. While Canada runs special pathways for Afghan refugees and family reunification, regular visitor visas (Temporary Resident Visa, TRV) are also available for Afghan citizens who wish to visit family, attend events, or travel as tourists. The Canadian High Commission in Islamabad processes most visa applications from Afghan citizens. Canada takes Afghan applications seriously but requires strong documentation and proof of genuine visitor intent.

From Kabul (KBL), common connections to Canada: via Istanbul (IST) to Toronto (YYZ) on Turkish Airlines; via Dubai (DXB) to Toronto or Vancouver (YVR) on Emirates; or via Doha (DOH) on Qatar Airways. Canada's main international airports are Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), and Montreal (YUL). Flights from major European cities where Afghan diaspora reside (Frankfurt, London, Paris) also connect directly to Canadian cities. Total journey time from Kabul: approximately 20 to 28 hours.

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). ATMs are ubiquitous and accept Visa and Mastercard. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Canada is moderately expensive; budget CAD 150 to 250 per day for accommodation, food, and transport in major cities. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive cities; smaller cities are more affordable. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted. Many Afghan community restaurants and halal butchers are found in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver.

Canada has a large and well-established Afghan community, particularly in Toronto (Ontario), Calgary (Alberta), and the Greater Vancouver area. Afghan cultural associations, mosques, and community centers are present in major cities. Winters are very cold across most of Canada, so pack appropriate clothing if visiting between November and March. Canada is bilingual (English and French); in Quebec, French is dominant. Halal food is widely available in cities with significant Muslim communities. Emergency number: 911.