The High Commission of Canada in Pakistan has issued a warning to Pakistani nationals against fraudulent agents and online scams claiming to offer guaranteed visas or electronic travel authorizations (eTAs) for the FIFA World Cup 26.
In an advisory, the High Commission urged applicants to submit all visa or eTA requests only through the official Government of Canada website, stressing that using unofficial channels could lead to financial loss, application refusal, or even future travel bans.
Applying for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or visa to travel to Canada for the #FIFAWorldCup?
Be careful of companies or individuals that claim they can help you get one!🧵 pic.twitter.com/7FIPyGBGcl
— Canada in Pakistan (@CanHCPakistan) February 25, 2026
Canada, which is co-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Mexico, is expecting more than 500,000 international visitors during the event. Officials say the surge in travel interest has increased the risk of scams targeting hopeful fans.
According to guidelines from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, there is no special visa category for attending World Cup matches. Fans planning to travel to Canada will enter the country as tourists and must apply either for a visitor visa or an eTA, depending on their nationality and mode of travel.
Authorities clarified that applicants do not need to purchase a World Cup ticket before applying for a visa or eTA. They also warned that holding a match ticket does not guarantee approval of any travel document.
For Pakistani applicants, current processing times for Canadian visitor visas are estimated at 20 to 30 weeks, making early and legitimate applications essential.
The High Commission advised applicants to remain cautious, avoid agents promising fast-track or guaranteed approvals, and rely solely on official sources to ensure a safe and lawful travel process ahead of the World Cup.
