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, citing heightened safety and security concerns stemming from recent Indian military actions and Pakistan’s subsequent responses.
The volatile situation, marked by air strikes, artillery fire, and airspace closures, has created an unpredictable security environment that demands immediate attention from Canadian travellers, expatriates, and those planning trips to Pakistan.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the updated advisory, offering critical insights into the current risks, travel disruptions, and safety measures.
Whether you’re a Canadian citizen in Pakistan or considering a visit, here’s everything you need to know to navigate this complex situation safely.
Table of Contents
On May 7, 2025, the Indian military launched air strikes targeting multiple locations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab Province.
According to reports, these strikes were aimed at alleged “terrorist infrastructure” linked to militant groups.
The operation, dubbed “Operation Sindoor,” involved advanced weaponry, including Rafale jets equipped with SCALP cruise missiles, and targeted cities such as Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Bahawalpur, and Muridke.
The strikes resulted in casualties, with Pakistani authorities reporting civilian deaths, including women and children, and significant damage to infrastructure like mosques and residential areas.
India’s Defence Ministry insists the strikes were precise and avoided military targets, but Pakistan has condemned them as an “act of war,” raising fears of further escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
In response, Pakistan has taken swift measures. The Pakistan Army engaged in heavy artillery fire across the Line of Control, leading to additional casualties on both sides.
Pakistani officials claim to have shot down several Indian aircraft, though India disputes these claims, reporting crashes in Indian-administered Kashmir instead.
To manage the crisis, Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority announced a temporary closure of the country’s airspace for at least 48 hours, effective May 7, 2025.
This has grounded flights from major airports like Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, and prompted international airlines, including Qatar Airways, Air France, and
Lufthansa, to suspend or reroute services. The airspace closure has created a ripple effect, disrupting travel plans across South Asia and beyond.
The military actions follow a deadly terrorist attack on April 23, 2025, in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which killed 27 people, mostly tourists.
India accuses Pakistan of sponsoring the attack, a claim Pakistan denies.
The fallout has dismantled 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, a de-facto border separating Indian- and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, remains a volatile flashpoint.
Heavy shelling and artillery exchanges have intensified, with both sides reporting civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.
The situation’s unpredictability has drawn international concern, with the United Nations and leaders like U.S. President Donald Trump urging restraint to prevent a broader conflict.
Risk Level: Exercise a High Degree of Caution
The updated advisory classifies Pakistan as a destination where travellers must exercise a high degree of caution due to an unpredictable security situation.
This designation reflects the ongoing risks of terrorism, civil unrest, and now, active military conflict. The advisory highlights specific concerns:
- Recent Military Actions: The Indian air strikes and Pakistan’s retaliatory artillery fire have heightened 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 rapidly, with potential for further military escalation, protests, or terrorist activities.
- Air Travel Disruptions: Pakistan’s temporary airspace closure has led to flight cancellations and rerouting, impacting travel to and from the country.
The advisory notes that the Government of Canada may be unable to provide consular assistance in certain areas due to:
- Serious Security Concerns: Regions like Pakistan-administered Kashmir and parts of Punjab Province are directly affected by the recent military actions, posing significant risks to travellers.
- Entry Prohibitions: The Government of Pakistan may prohibit entry to certain areas, particularly those near conflict zones.
- Advance Permission Requirements: Some regions require special authorization for entry, which may be difficult to obtain amid the current crisis.
Canadians in or near these areas are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for sudden changes in the security environment.
Pakistan’s temporary airspace closure, effective May 7, 2025, has caused widespread disruptions to air travel.
Here’s how Canadians can manage the impact:
The closure has halted all flight operations from major Pakistani airports, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. International airlines have responded swiftly:
- Qatar Airways: Suspended flights to Pakistan, citing safety concerns due to the airspace closure.
- Air France and Lufthansa: Avoiding Pakistani airspace, rerouting flights to destinations like Delhi via the Arabian Sea or Central Asia.
- Indian Airlines: Airports in northern India, such as Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar, are also closed, affecting regional connectivity.
Flight-tracking data indicates over 50 cancellations and dozens of diverted international flights, with domestic services in both Pakistan and India heavily impacted.
The Government of Canada acknowledges that consular assistance may be limited in areas with serious security concerns or entry restrictions.
However, support is available through the following channels:
- High Commission of Canada in Islamabad: Located at Diplomatic Enclave, Sector G-5, Islamabad, the High Commission can assist with emergency services, passport issues, and evacuation coordination. Contact: +92 (51) 208-6000 or [email protected].
- 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, reach the Ottawa-based centre at +1 613-996-8885 (call collect if needed) or email [email protected].
In regions like Pakistan-administered Kashmir and parts of Punjab, consular services may be unavailable due to security risks or government restrictions.
Canadians in these areas should:
- Relocate to Safer Regions: If possible, move to cities like Islamabad or Lahore, where consular support is more accessible.
- Maintain Communication: Keep the High Commission informed of your location and plans, if sheltering in place.
- Prepare for Self-Reliance: In extreme cases, consular assistance may be delayed. Have a contingency plan, including emergency contacts and resources.
Why did Canada update the travel advisory for Pakistan?
The advisory was updated on May 7, 2025, due to Indian military air strikes on Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Punjab Province, Pakistan’s retaliatory artillery fire, and the resulting airspace closure, which have created an unpredictable security environment.
What does “exercise a high degree of caution” mean?
It indicates a significant risk level, urging travellers to stay vigilant, avoid high-risk areas, and follow local authorities’ instructions due to potential threats like military conflict, terrorism, or civil unrest.
Are flights to Pakistan cancelled?
Yes, Pakistan’s temporary airspace closure has led to widespread flight cancellations and rerouting.
Major airlines like Qatar Airways and Air France have suspended services, and northern Indian airports are also closed.
Can Canadians access consular assistance in Pakistan?
Consular support is available through the High Commission in Islamabad and the Consulate in Karachi, but it may be limited in areas with serious security concerns or entry restrictions.
Should I cancel my trip to Pakistan?
Non-essential travel should be postponed due to the unpredictable situation. If travel is necessary, consult the advisory, register with ROCA, and secure comprehensive travel insurance.
The updated Canada travel advisory for Pakistan, effective May 7, 2025, underscores the serious risks posed by recent Indian military actions and Pakistan’s responses.
With air strikes, artillery fire, and airspace closures creating an unpredictable security environment, Canadian travellers and expatriates must prioritize safety.
By monitoring local and international media, following local authorities’ instructions, and preparing to shelter in place, you can navigate the crisis effectively.
For those planning trips, delaying travel and staying updated via the Government of Canada’s resources is the best course of action.
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and stay safe. For the latest updates, visit travel.gc.ca.
Share this article with fellow travellers and expatriates to spread critical safety information during this volatile time.
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
You may also like: New Canada Employment Insurance Rules Effective April 2025
Canada’s Express Entry Permanent Residency For Skilled Workers
New Ontario Trillium Benefit Payment To Be Sent On May 9
5 New CRA Benefit Payments Coming For Ontario Residents In May 2025
