Canada may introduce new visa steps for Indians, Pakistanis

Canada may soon introduce special immigration measures for Indian and Pakistani nationals. This step comes as tensions rise between India and Pakistan following a deadly attack in Kashmir. The attack took place in April 2025 and killed 26 people, many of them tourists. India blamed Pakistan for the attack, but Pakistan strongly denied the claim.

Since then, both countries have taken harsh steps. They cancelled visas, stopped trade, and put an end to many agreements. Canada has also advised its citizens to avoid travel to both India and Pakistan.

These events have left thousands of families stuck across borders. Many Indian and Pakistani citizens in Canada now worry about their future. Students, workers, and visitors fear they may not be able to return home or bring their families to Canada.

What Measures Could Canada Introduce?

While no official policy has been announced, Canada may soon act. Based on past actions, here’s what might happen:

• Visa Extensions: Canada may let Indians and Pakistanis stay longer if their permits are about to expire.
  
• Faster Family Reunification: The government could speed up family visa applications. This would help bring spouses, children, and parents together faster.
  
• Humanitarian Permits: People facing danger back home might get special visas.
  
• Asylum Help: Canada may make it easier for those seeking asylum because of the conflict.
  
• More Consular Support: Canadian embassies may increase staff to handle rising questions and cases.
  

Canada Has Helped Before

Canada has stepped in during past global crises. For example:

• In the 1970s, Canada welcomed over 5,000 East Pakistani refugees.
  
• In 1999, Canada helped over 7,000 people escape war in Kosovo.
  
• In 2015, Canada brought in more than 25,000 Syrian refugees.
  
• In 2022, Canada gave emergency visas to over 200,000 Ukrainians.
  
• In 2023, Canada helped Sudanese nationals with fast-track visas.
  

These examples show that Canada often responds with care when people face danger.

Community Voices Hope and Concern

In British Columbia and Ontario, people with ties to India and Pakistan shared their thoughts. Many feel scared and unsure about what’s next.

“We’re all concerned about our families back home,” said Haroon Khan, a community leader in Vancouver. “We want Canada to help with visas and also promote peace.”

Students are also worried. “I’m nervous about renewing my study permit,” said Simran, a student from Punjab.

Vinay Sharma, another community leader, said, “We are one family here in Canada, no matter where we come from.”

What’s Next?

Right now, Canada has not made a final decision. But many hope help will come soon. The situation in South Asia remains tense. Until peace returns, families in Canada are hoping for quick action and support.

Jatinder Bhan, a Kashmiri Canadian, summed it up well: “We hope for peace back home and unity here in Canada.”