Canada Tightens Tourist Visa Policy: No More Automatic 10-Year Multiple Entry Visas

In a recent policy shift, the Canadian government has made changes to its approach toward issuing tourist visas. Moving away from the standard practice of providing multiple-entry visas with extended validity, Canada will now limit the issuance of tourist visas with a ten-year validity.

This change reflects Canada’s broader approach to managing temporary immigration amidst rising housing shortages and cost-of-living concerns.

Updated Guidelines for Canada’s Multiple-Entry Visas

Multiple-entry visas, previously granted with maximum validity, are now subject to closer scrutiny. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) confirmed in a recent update that officers will evaluate each case to decide on the visa type and its duration.

“Guidance has been updated to indicate that multiple-entry visas issued to maximum validity are no longer considered to be the standard document,” IRCC stated. “Officers may exercise their judgment in deciding whether to issue a single or multiple-entry visa and in determining the validity period.”

What’s Changed?

Under the new guidelines, immigration officers now have more discretion in issuing visas. This means:

1. Single or Multiple Entry: Immigration officers now determine if applicants receive a single-entry visa, valid for one visit, or a multiple-entry visa, which allows repeated entries during its validity.

2. Shorter Validity Periods: The previous standard of 10-year validity for multiple-entry visas has been removed. Instead, visa validity will now vary, tailored to each applicant’s circumstances and needs.

Why the Change?

This policy shift comes amidst efforts by the Canadian government to manage immigration levels. The government acknowledges its role in the perception that Canada has too many temporary residents. With this new policy, they aim to better control the flow of temporary migrants.

Also Read: Canada Clarifies Transit Visa Rules For Temporary Residents

What This Means for Travellers

1. Uncertainty

Travellers should no longer assume they will automatically receive a 10-year multiple-entry visa. Visa type and duration will now depend on the discretion of immigration officers, meaning each application may yield different outcomes.

2. Preparation

While single-entry visas remain an option, travellers planning frequent visits to Canada may need to apply for new visas for each trip. This could lead to added costs and processing times, making it essential to plan ahead.

3. Application Process

Applicants should be ready to provide detailed documentation and a clear purpose for their travel plans. Immigration officers will assess these factors more closely, especially for those requesting multiple-entry visas.

Canada’s Multiple-Entry Visa Explained

Canada’s multiple-entry visa allows eligible travellers to enter Canada multiple times within the visa’s validity period, making it a convenient option for frequent visitors. Here’s what to know about the multiple-entry visa:

Canada’s multiple-entry visa offers flexibility for travellers who need to visit frequently for business, family, or tourism purposes.

However, the recent policy update means eligibility and validity may now depend on each applicant’s case, making it essential for travellers to check with Canadian immigration authorities when applying.

Also Read: Canada Introduces Stricter Rules for Foreign Workers and Reduces Immigration

Remember

• Always check the latest Canadian visa requirements before your trip.
• Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans during your visa application.

A New Era for Canadian Visas

In summary, Canada’s new visa policy marks a shift toward controlled, case-by-case visa issuance, reducing automatic long-term approvals. Travellers should stay updated on changing requirements as the government balances immigration with national priorities to ensure smooth applications.