Canada has resumed visitor visa and eTA processing in July

The emergence of the worldwide pandemic led countries to impose travel restrictions on their borders in order to decrease the spread of the virus. Canada is no exception.

However, Canada is trying its best to continue the immigration process without any hindrance.  Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has begun to process visitor visa and eTA applications online once more. The travel restrictions will still be in place for a while. IRCC will process the applications to the best of its ability.

If you are a prospective candidate and have submitted an online application for a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization, you will be happy to know that your applications might soon be processed.

Details:

A media release states that IRCC has resumed processing so as to be proactive when it comes to managing future processing times. The travel exemptions will apply to family members who are willing to stay back for at least 15 days or people wanting to come to Canada for essential purposes.  Skilled workers and international students will be exempted as long as they follow satisfy all the conditions.

All travelers will have the responsibility of providing proof to the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), indicating that they are indeed traveling for an essential reason. If the CBSA officials remain unsatisfied, you may not be granted entry. IRCC is also processing virtual applications for work permits, study permits, and permanent residence. Paper applications are not being accepted at the moment.

Canada has provided flexibility to applicants, so they have the time to complete all the necessary steps of the application process amidst the pandemic. Some visa application centers (VACs) have begun reopening around the world, and they will accept biometric details of candidates.