Canada’s Urgent Travel Advisory Update for Pakistan: What You Need to Know

Last Updated On: 7 May 2025, 4:23 PM EDT (Toronto Time)

On May 7, 2025, the Government of Canada issued an urgent update to its travel advisory for Pakistan. This update comes in response to heightened safety and security concerns following recent military actions by India and Pakistan’s subsequent responses.

The rapidly deteriorating situation, characterized by air strikes, artillery fire, and airspace closures, has created an unpredictable security environment that requires immediate attention from Canadian travellers, expatriates, and those considering trips to Pakistan.

This guide will provide important insights into the current risks, travel disruptions, and safety measures for navigating this challenging landscape.

Indian Air Strikes and Casualties

On May 7, 2025, the Indian military launched air strikes targeting various locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab Province. These operations, under the banner of “Operation Sindoor,” were reportedly aimed at alleged “terrorist infrastructure” linked to militant groups. Advanced weaponry, including Rafale jets armed with SCALP cruise missiles, was utilized during these strikes, impacting cities such as Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Bahawalpur, and Muridke.

The Pakistani government has reported several civilian casualties, including women and children, along with significant damage to crucial infrastructure such as mosques and residential areas. While India’s Defence Ministry asserts that the strikes were precise and avoided military targets, Pakistan has condemned these actions as an “act of war," raising fears of further escalation between the two nuclear-armed nations.

Pakistan’s Retaliation and Airspace Closure

In response to the air strikes, Pakistan’s military engaged in heavy artillery exchanges across the Line of Control, resulting in additional casualties on both sides. Pakistani officials claim to have downed several Indian aircraft; however, India disputes these assertions, citing crashes occurring within Indian-administered Kashmir.

To manage escalating tensions and restore control, Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority has temporarily closed its airspace for at least 48 hours, effective May 7, 2025. This decision has grounded flights from major airports such as Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, leading international airlines—including Qatar Airways, Air France, and Lufthansa—to suspend or reroute services. Consequently, travel plans across South Asia and beyond have been significantly disrupted.

Escalating Tensions and Regional Implications

The recent military actions are set against the backdrop of a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, on April 23, 2025, that resulted in the deaths of 27 individuals, mostly tourists. India has accused Pakistan of sponsoring this attack, a claim that Pakistan vehemently denies.

The aftermath of these events has unravelled decades-old diplomatic agreements, with India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan halting the Simla Agreement, further straining bilateral relations. The Line of Control, which divides Indian- and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, has become an increasingly volatile flashpoint. Both sides are exchanging heavy shelling and artillery fire, leading to civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.

International concerns are mounting, prompting calls for restraint from the United Nations and leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, to prevent a broader conflict.

Understanding the Canada Travel Advisory for Pakistan

Risk Level: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

The updated advisory now classifies Pakistan as a destination where travellers must exercise a high degree of caution due to an unpredictable security situation. This designation underscores ongoing risks related to terrorism, civil unrest, and, increasingly, active military conflict. Here are the specific concerns outlined in the advisory:

• Recent Military Actions: The Indian air strikes and Pakistan’s artillery responses have raised tensions, particularly along the Line of Control and in affected areas like Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab Province.
• Unpredictable Security Environment: The situation could deteriorate quickly, with potential for further military escalation, protests, or terrorist activities.
• Air Travel Disruptions: Pakistan’s airspace closure has resulted in numerous flight cancellations and rerouting, impacting travel to and from the country.

Areas of Concern

The advisory highlights several areas where the Government of Canada may be unable to provide consular assistance due to serious security concerns:

• Serious Security Risks: Regions like Pakistan-administered Kashmir and parts of Punjab Province are directly impacted by recent military actions, posing significant risks to travellers.
• Entry Prohibitions: There may be restrictions on entry to certain areas, particularly those near conflict zones.
• Advance Permission Requirements: Special authorization might be necessary for entering some regions, complicating travel plans amid the current crisis.

Canadians in or near these high-risk areas are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for sudden changes in the security environment.

Impact on Flights and Airport Closures

As of May 7, the airspace closure in Pakistan has produced widespread flight disruptions. Here’s how Canadians can manage these impacts:

• The closure has halted all flight operations from major Pakistani airports, which has led to major international airlines suspending flights:
  • Qatar Airways has suspended its flights to Pakistan due to safety concerns stemming from the airspace closure.
  • Air France and Lufthansa are rerouting their flights to avoid Pakistani airspace, typically opting for routes that travel over the Arabian Sea or Central Asia.
  • Airports in northern India, such as Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar, are closed as well, which affects regional connectivity.

Flight-tracking data indicates over 50 cancellations with dozens of international flights diverted, resulting in significant disruptions to both domestic and international air travel.

Accessing Consular Support

While the Government of Canada has acknowledged that consular assistance may be limited in areas designated as serious security concerns, support remains available through the following channels:

• High Commission of Canada in Islamabad: Located at Diplomatic Enclave, Sector G-5, Islamabad. It can assist with emergency services, passport issues, and evacuation coordination. Contact: +92 (51) 208-6000 or sos@international.gc.ca.

• Consulate General in Karachi: Offers limited services for Canadians in Sindh Province. Contact: +92 (21) 3529-4200.

• Emergency Watch and Response Centre: For urgent situations, contact the Ottawa-based centre at +1 613-996-8885 (collect calls accepted) or email sos@international.gc.ca.

Limitations in High-Risk Areas

In regions such as Pakistan-administered Kashmir and parts of Punjab Province, consular services may not be accessible due to security restrictions. Canadians in these areas should:

• Relocate to Safer Regions: If possible, move to larger cities like Islamabad or Lahore, where consular support is more readily available.

• Maintain Communication: Keep the High Commission updated on your location and plans if you’re sheltering in place.

• Prepare for Self-Reliance: Given that consular assistance may be delayed in extreme cases, establish a contingency plan that includes emergency contacts and resources.

Stay informed and prioritize safety during this turbulent time. For the latest updates, refer to the Government of Canada’s travel resources.