CONTENT|CONTENU

TRAVEL REPORT
Pakistan

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 2 has been updated (South Waziristan).

See our Global Issues pages for information on avian influenza.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Pakistan

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Pakistan. Canadians choosing to travel to Pakistan despite this warning should carefully evaluate the implications for their security and safety. Canadians already in Pakistan should consider leaving if their presence is not necessary, as transportation may be disrupted or become limited without notice. Canadians should stay informed of the current situation by monitoring news reports and following the advice of local authorities. The High Commission of Canada in Islamabad can provide security advice upon request. The Government of Canada does not permit infants and school-aged dependants of Canadian government personnel to live in Pakistan. The High Commission of Canada in Islamabad has instructed Canadian government personnel to limit their movements in Islamabad until further notice. On November 21, 2008, foreign diplomats were advised by the Pakistani government to restrict their movements to their assigned city due to security threats.

The security situation remains fragile and unpredictable. The terrorist threat remains very high. Terrorist attacks have occurred throughout Pakistan, causing many deaths and injuries, especially since the beginning of 2008. Suicide bombings, improvised explosive devices, and political assassinations were among the tactics used in these attacks. Some attacks involved detailed planning to maximize casualties by using multiple and consecutive explosions. Extremism, ethnic divisions, sectarian strife, regional political disputes, and the situation in Afghanistan are usually the reasons behind these attacks. Pakistani institutions are generally the targets; 11 people were killed and approximately 15 injured in two explosions near a police station in Peshawar on October 16, 2009. Furthermore, 38 people were killed in three separate attacks on October 15, 2009, at law enforcement facilities in Lahore. There have also been attacks in public areas, such as hotels, markets, transportation hubs, Western-style fast food outlets, restaurants, and religious sites, including places frequented by foreigners. Only the very best hotels, with stringent security, including metal detectors, should be used; however, no location should be considered free of risks. Mosques and their vicinities at prayer times, especially on Fridays, should be avoided. Large cities, such as Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar, are particularly vulnerable to indiscriminate bombings and other attacks. 

Canadians should be particularly vigilant in the lead-up to and on days of national significance, such as Independence Day (August 14), National Day (March 23), the Islamic month of Muharram and the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr. Canadians should expect heightened security measures and associated disruptions during these periods. 

During the homecoming of Benazir Bhutto to Karachi on October 18, 2007, two bomb explosions caused over 125 deaths and a large number of people were injured. Benazir Bhutto herself was assassinated by a suicide bomber on December 27, 2007. On August 21, 2008, bomb blasts at an arms plant in Taxila killed 63 people and injured over 100 others. On March 3, 2009, gunmen opened fire on the Sri Lankan national cricket team in Lahore, killing at least six police officers and wounding several team players.

In addition, embassies and other international facilities have been targeted or threatened in the recent past. The most recent attack occurred on October 5, 2009, when five people, including one foreigner, were killed and four others injured in a bomb attack inside the U.N. World Food Program offices, in Islamabad. On September 20, 2008, an attack was perpetrated at the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad, which caused more than 50 deaths and injured over 250 people. On June 2, 2008, an explosion occurred in the vicinity of the Danish Embassy in the capital; 8 people were killed and 12 seriously injured.

Canadians should exercise extreme caution at all times. Any suspicious-looking package or behaviour should be reported immediately to the nearest security authorities. Heightened security measures are currently in place throughout the country. Checkpoints may be set up without warning. 

Following the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India, in November 2008, tensions between Pakistan and India have risen significantly. Travellers should be alert to the developing situation throughout Pakistan (see Travel Warning below for more information).

There is also a very high risk of foreign nationals being kidnapped throughout Pakistan. Kidnapping for criminal and political purposes is a rising phenomenon. It is highly recommended to use varied and unpredictable routes and schedules when moving from one place to another. On September 28, 2008, a Polish engineer and his three Pakistani security escorts were abducted and killed in the district of Attock in Punjab province, close to the border with the North West Frontier Province.

Canadians planning to leave Pakistan should confirm booking arrangements with their travel agent and/or airline before going to the airport. They should also ensure that all their travel documents are up-to-date, and register and keep in contact with the High Commission of Canada in Islamabad at 92 (51) 208-6000 or the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

Canadian officials may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in some parts of the country (mostly outside urban areas) due to security concerns. In addition, Canadian officials may not be able to provide assistance in areas where the Government of Pakistan prohibits entry or requires advance permission for entry.

Regional Warning

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to areas reporting military or militant activity and to all border areas, except official border crossing points; to the Kashmir region (including Azad Kashmir); to the province of Baluchistan, including the city of Quetta; to the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP), including Swat, the city of Peshawar and the Khyber Pass; and to the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Canadians currently in these regions should consider leaving if their presence is not necessary.

NWFP and FATA

The security situation in the NWFP and the FATA remains volatile due to sectarian violence and to fighting between government forces and militants. Lawlessness is a serious concern in several areas. Bombings, shootings, and mass demonstrations have occurred, resulting in deaths and injuries. Curfews are sometimes imposed. The security situation in Swat and South Waziristan is particularly volatile. The military operations in these areas have caused a number of civilian casualties, including deaths. Canadians should leave the area if it is safe to do so. Road travel through Swat to Gilgit and Chitral should be avoided for the same reasons. 

Border with India

Tensions between Pakistan and India have risen significantly since the Mumbai attacks. Canadians could experience difficulties when travelling between the two countries. Travel is often limited when tensions are high, and a traveller risks being scrutinized if officials from either country become aware that the individual has recently travelled to the other country.

A ceasefire is in effect along the Line of Control with India and at military outposts in the Karakoram Mountains (including the Siachen Glacier). Caution is advised as the situation remains unpredictable (see Section 9 for information on adventure travel).

Threat to Foreigners

The threat to foreigners is currently high in those regions. A number of foreigners, including diplomats, journalists and aid workers, have been kidnapped in the past months. Some foreigners have also been killed.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Demonstrations and Civil Unrest

Demonstrations and civil unrest may occur throughout Pakistan. Some have become violent and resulted in death and injuries, as well as widespread property damage. The current political situation, ethnic and sectarian conflicts, power cuts, and the rising price of commodities are among the current causes of concern. In the past, the release of a controversial short film on the Koran and the Danish cartoons have resulted in severe anti-foreign sentiment.

Canadians are advised to avoid political gatherings and demonstrations, and to stay away from areas where they may take place, as they could turn violent without warning. 

Crime

Violent crime is a problem, particularly in Karachi. Armed robbery, random shootings, and armed carjackings occur, mostly in major urban centres.

Travelling after dusk should be avoided, particularly in rural areas where road conditions are unsafe. It is advisable to make arrangements to be met at the airport, especially if arriving after dark.

Travel overland into Sindh province is discouraged unless police are notified well in advance and are able to make the necessary security arrangements. Rural areas of the provinces of Sindh and Punjab should be avoided due to banditry.

If travelling by car, valuable belongings should be kept out of sight and windows should be closed.

The province of Baluchistan, which borders Iran and Afghanistan, is notorious for cross-border smuggling.

Petty crime is common. To reduce the probability of becoming a victim, it is recommended to avoid showing signs of affluence and to ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure at all times. There are reports that cell phones, credit cards, and passports are currently favourite targets. In Karachi, express kidnappings have occurred where the person is kidnapped for a couple of hours and forced to purchase goods and/or to withdraw money from automatic banking machines.

Cases of drugged food followed by robbery have been reported. Food and drinks should not be accepted from strangers and should not be left unattended in commercial establishments. Only bottled drinks should be ordered in order to maintain control of the situation.

Extortion and corruption can occur in the business environment. Tribal and criminal groups are usually behind these actions. Extortion attempts should be reported to Pakistani authorities and officials at the High Commission of Canada in Islamabad.

Forced Marriages

There are reports of Canadians being forced into marital arrangements. Some are detained in Pakistan against their will and subjected to threats, intimidation, and violence by family members. Passports have been retained by family members. Some victims have been unable to return to Canada without intervention by the Canadian and Pakistani authorities. Forced marriages are contrary to Canadian law. If you are in Canada and you believe that you are being forced to travel overseas or to marry, you should contact provincial social welfare authorities and the local police. You may also contact Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Emergency Operations Centre (613-996-8885). In Pakistan, you should contact the nearest Canadian government office (see Section 5 for details).

General Safety Information

Dial 15 for emergencies throughout Pakistan.

Power shortages often occur.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Pakistani authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the High Commission for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and its consulates for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Pakistan. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected departure from Pakistan. Canadians must also be in possession of a visa prior to travel, whatever the purpose of their stay (work, tourism, business, studies).

Journalists may have to provide an itinerary to get a visa; the itinerary should be strictly followed during their stay.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Pakistan - ISLAMABAD, High Commission of Canada
Address: Diplomatic Enclave, Sector G-5, Islamabad, Pakistan
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1042, Islamabad, Pakistan,
Tel.: 92 (51) 208-6000
Fax: 92 (51) 208-6902
E-Mail: isbad-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.pakistan.gc.ca

Pakistan - KARACHI, Consulate of Canada
Address: c/o Beach Luxury Hotel, Room 120, Moulvi Tamiz Uddin Khan Road, Karachi 0227, Pakistan
Tel.: 92 (21) 561-0685
Fax: 92 (21) 561-0673/4
E-Mail: honcon@avari.com
Internet: http://www.pakistan.gc.ca

Pakistan - LAHORE, Consulate of Canada
Address: 102-A, First Floor, Siddiq Trade Centre, 72 Main Boulevard, Gulberg, Lahore, Pakistan
Tel.: 92 (42) 578-1763
Fax: 92 (42) 578-1967
E-Mail: info@canconlhr.org.pk
Internet: http://www.pakistan.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Islamabad and follow the instructions. You may also call the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to closely monitor and report on occurrences of avian influenza A (H5N1), or "bird flu", in humans and in birds. Further information on avian influenza A (H5N1) and recommendations for travellers can be found on the Public Health Agency of Canada's Travel Medicine Web site as well as on the World Health Organization's Web site. For more information, see our Global Issues page on Avian Influenza.

Since 2006, there have been three confirmed human deaths due to avian influenza in Pakistan, according to the World Health Organization. Travellers should avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live-food markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Medical facilities are good in major cities, but limited in rural areas. Immediate cash payment could be required for any medical service.

Do not drink tap water, especially in rural areas. Travellers should boil water or drink bottled water, peel all fruits and vegetables, and avoid undercooked meat, dairy products, and most food sold in the streets.

Air pollution could become a health concern, especially in winter. Canadians with respiratory problems should take this into account and consult with their physician prior to their departure.

It is recommended that travellers carry a sufficient supply of medications.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail or death sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

The country's customs, laws, and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Sharia law has been adopted in the Swat Valley. Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Religious proselytizing is not permitted.

Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. Visitors should dress conservatively. 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. The Department publishes a booklet entitled Her Own Way: A Woman’s Guide to Safe and Successful Travel. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian women and encourage them to travel safely.

The use of alcohol is prohibited. Transgressions could 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 drug trafficking, murder, illegal gathering, blasphemy, and rape.

Homosexual activity is illegal, as is living together without being married. In public, physical contact (e.g. holding hands) should be avoided.

Pork products and alcohol are illegal in Pakistan.

Photographing government buildings, military installations, and airports is prohibited. Permission should be asked before taking photographs of local residents.

Canadians are advised to carry copies of their passport and their visa at all times.

Dual Nationality

Dual nationality is not recognized. Canadians travelling to Pakistan on Pakistani passports are advised that a valid Canadian passport will be required for return travel to Canada. Canadian citizenship cards are not accepted as travel documents and there are no exceptions to this rule. The service standard for passport issuance at the High Commission of Canada in Islamabad is 15 working days.

Canadians are advised to travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadians to local authorities at all times. The ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services is limited for those who do not travel on a Canadian passport.

Canadians born in Pakistan, or those whose father was born in Pakistan, should confirm their citizenship status with the High Commission of Pakistan in Ottawa as they could be considered Pakistanis while on Pakistani soil.

The Department publishes a booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know, specifically targeted at Canadians with dual nationality.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Restricted Zones

Official permission is required to visit certain areas of Pakistan. Travellers should contact local authorities to determine if the areas they intend to visit are restricted and/or a permit is required.

Trekking and Climbing

Canadians intending to trek in Gilgit, Hunza, Chitral, and the Swat Valley, or to climb in other areas, should use licensed guides and tourist agencies only.

Mountain climbers should avoid the disputed areas along the border with India (Karakoram Mountains). The following peaks are considered dangerous: Rimo; Apsarasas I, II, and III; Tegam Kangri I, II, and III; Suingri Kangri; Ghiant I and II; Indira Col; and Sia Kangri.

Rail Travel

Rail travel should be avoided as it has been targeted by rioters and terrorists in the recent past.

Road Travel

Traffic drives on the left. Road conditions are poor. Roads are mostly unpaved outside major urban centres, narrow, crowded, and poorly lit and signed. 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.

Travelling to Hunza via the Karakoram highway is advisable only during daylight hours. Two drivers should be present if travelling by bus. Sections of the road are very narrow with precipitous drops and are sometimes partially obstructed by rock and earth slides.

The earthquake of October 2005 destroyed much of the infrastructure in the northern areas of the country. Reconstruction efforts are ongoing in these regions. There are frequent road closures, and travel is considered to be extremely difficult in the areas affected by the earthquake.

Driving habits differ markedly from those practised in Canada. Traffic regulations are often ignored.

It is strongly recommended not to use public transportation and taxis.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

Air Travel

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

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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 and ABMs are available.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

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. The most recent serious earthquake occurred on October 29, 2008. The earthquake, which registered 6.5 on the Richter scale, struck the southwestern province of Baluchistan. Hundreds of deaths and injuries were reported. Property and road infrastructure were also seriously damaged.

The monsoon season extends from July to September and can result in flooding, especially along the Indus River. Cyclones along the coastal region and avalanches in the mountains can also occur.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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