IRCC Resumes Processing of Online Applications

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) resumes processing of online applications for visitor visas, transit visas and electronic travel authorizations (eTAs) amid restrictions on travel to Canada. They also announced they will continue to process only study permit and work permit applications submitted online. This means that all paper applications for temporary residence remain suspended until further notice. However, certain programs are exempt from the in-Canada mandatory electronic application.

The implication of this is that those who wish to submit an application to come to or remain in Canada temporarily, technically have one option if they wish to have a speedy response to their application – applying online. Although, this might seem like a difficult task for those who prefer the paper route, online application has many advantages over paper, one of which is lesser processing times.

You will recall that the IRCC, on April 29, 2020, announced the suspension of visa processing of non-essential visitor visas and some eTA applications as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The current lift of the suspension allows a wider group of people to submit applications, albeit online, and will help expedite people’s travel when travel restrictions are eventually lifted. Read more at IRCC.