• + 1 778-564-3555

Tag Archives: eTA

IRCC: Processing changes for visas due to COVID-19

Because of COVID-19 outbreak and service disruptions, IRCC has suspended processing of non-essential visitor visa applications. This has allowed  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to focus resources on critical services. This suspension also applies to some electronic travel authorization (eTA) applications.

Processing of visa and eTA applications for those who qualify for an exemption to the travel restrictions are still continued. This includes all temporary foreign worker applications, with a particular focus on essential services, such as those in medical fields and food supply chains.

IRCC is processing study permit applications for students who will continue in anticipation of the fall study term. IRCC will continue to process applications to the extent possible. Study permit applications require biometrics, and many visa application centres that normally provide this service are closed. As a special measure, due to COVID-19, applicants are now being given 90 days instead of the standard 30 days to give biometrics. Students who have a valid study permit or were approved for a study permit before March 18, 2020, can currently travel to Canada.

Permanent residence applications continue to be processed. Only permanent residents who received approval before March 18, 2020, can currently travel to Canada. Spouse and Common Law Partners can still submit their application during COVID-19 pandemic.

Contact us for consultation and assessment.