Canada Plans to Fast-Track Processing of Certain Visitor Visas

In a bid to streamline the visa and immigration process Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced plans to expedite the processing of certain visitor visas.

This initiative aims to facilitate the entry of individuals attending major conferences and events in Canada, as well as those seeking to visit the country for tourism purposes.

Prioritizing Visitor Visas for Tourism

In line with its strategic immigration goals, IRCC intends to prioritize the processing of visitor visas related to tourism, major conferences, and events. This move aligns with Canada’s efforts to attract visitors and enhance its position as a global destination for business and leisure travel.

Reducing Visa Wait Times

The action plan outlined by IRCC emphasizes the importance of reducing wait times and improving service standards for newcomers, including visitor visa applicants.

This commitment is evident in the expansion of the partial visa-exempt countries list and the introduction of the electronic travel authorization (eTA) system.

eTA: A Faster Alternative to Traditional Visitor Visas

It is worth mentioning here that, in June 2023, IRCC expanded its list of partial visa-exempt countries by adding 13 additional nations, bringing the total to 67, allowing travellers from these nations to apply for an eTA instead of a traditional visitor visa.

This eTA expansion enables travellers from these countries to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead of a traditional visitor visa.

Notably, eTA applications are typically approved much faster, often within minutes, offering a more efficient process for eligible visitors.

Recognizing the Importance of Temporary Residents

Amidst the focus on permanent residence and long-term immigration, IRCC emphasizes the significant role played by temporary residents, including visitor visa applicants, in Canada’s immigration system.

In a statement towards the end of the previous year, the department acknowledged a surge in visitor visa applications, noting that Canada is now processing more applications than pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels.

Specifically, in November 2022, IRCC processed over 260,000 visitor visas, surpassing the monthly average of 180,000 applications in 2019.

Conclusion

Canada’s efforts to expedite the processing of certain visitor visas demonstrate the country’s commitment to attracting international visitors and fostering a welcoming environment for those seeking to enter Canada for various purposes. These initiatives not only benefit visitors but also contribute to Canada’s economic growth and cultural vibrancy.