Can I apply for a Canadian visit visa and switch it?

As a Pakistani citizen, you can apply for a Canadian visit visa, but changing your visa (status) once you're in Canada is not straightforward. Here's what you need to know:

1. Applying for a Visit Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

Yes, you can apply for a visit visa if you meet the requirements:

• Strong ties to Pakistan (job, family, property, etc.).

• Proof of funds for your stay.

• A valid reason for visiting (tourism, family visit, etc.).

• A clear intention to return after your trip.

2. Changing Visa Status from Visitor to Student/Work

You cannot directly change from a visitor visa to a student or work visa inside Canada. Canadian immigration law generally requires:

• Applying for a study or work permit from outside Canada.

• Leaving Canada and re-entering with the new visa, if approved.

In some limited cases, you may be able to apply from within Canada (e.g., if you're a minor studying in Canada, or your spouse is a worker/student), but this usually doesn’t apply to most visitors.

Best Practice:

If you want to study or work in Canada, it's better to apply directly for a study permit or work permit from Pakistan. This shows honest intent and avoids immigration issues.