In the latest development, Canada has revised its previous visa policy of issuing long-term multiple-entry tourist visas with a validity of up to 10 years. Under the new rules, immigration officers will now determine the type and validity period of visas issued. This significant policy change can impact frequent travelers, as they may no longer rely on guaranteed long-term entry into the country.

Previously, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offered two types of tourist visas – Single and multiple-entry. Those holding a multiple-entry visa could enter Canada as many times as needed until the visa’s validity – up to a decade or a month before the expiry of the passport or biometrics.

This shift reflects Canada’s broader strategy to tighten the control over both temporary and permanent immigration to the country. According to reports, Visa officers will strictly reflect the applicant’s profile and changing immigration needs in the future.

Impact On Visitors

Visitors whose visas are nearing the expiration date will have to reconsider their long-term stay plans now. Reports suggest that Canada is expecting over a million temporary residents whose visas are expiring in the coming years to depart from the country. The government is planning to enforce deportations for those who overstay.

For those who wish to stay longer or visit multiple times, the updated visa policy will require more careful planning, and may need to apply for new visas more often. This also means additional costs, extended processing times, and the need to plan travel beforehand.

This new policy aims to manage the flow of temporary visitors more efficiently while balancing Canada’s evolving immigration approach.