Canada is one of the most affluent nations in the world in terms of its thriving economy and natural wonders. Resultantly, it attracts visitors from across the world who come here for different purposes, including travel, study, job, or simply to become a Canadian citizen. Now, irrespective of the purpose, you need a valid Canadian visa to enter the country, and for that, you need to know the Canada visitor visa processing time.

Now, the time required for a Canadian visa depends on multiple factors, but when you work with experts like the Western Overseas, they ensure that your visa processing experience remains smooth and hassle-free. 

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Canada visitor visa processing time from India

Generally, the processing time for a Canada visitor visa will take about 28 days. Now, you can check the details by visiting the official website of the Canadian government. Here, you will see that they always prioritise job permit applications in Canada. So, if you’re not applying for a specific job, then the processing time may increase in some cases. 

Additionally, the Canadian Immigration Department has mentioned that there will be no specific processing time estimation for the following two cases –

  • The time required to send an application between the visa application center and the office of the Canadian government.
  • The time required to include your biometrics. 

Canada visitor visa processing time after biometrics verification

The processing time after biometric authentication depends upon how fast your biometric data is processed and included in your visa application. The average time for visa processing after biometric verification ranges between 1 and 8 weeks. Moreover, the time varies depending on several factors. 

Canada visitor visa processing time after medical verification

Generally, the visa processing time after medical verification is longer. The processing time for the medical reports takes between 2 to 4 weeks. Then, these reports will be sent to the visa office. If the medical officers order additional tests, it will take more time. Also, there is a chance that the visa officers will not be satisfied after reviewing your medical reports. Then they will opt for further investigation, which causes delay again. 

Factors affecting Canada visa processing time

Here are the factors that affect the Canadian visa processing time –

●        Visa category

Every visa category has its unique requirements and processing methods. Some of these visa categories require complex background verifications, additional documentation, and interviews. As a result, these will take a longer time to process.

For example, spouse visas require an in-depth verification of the relationships and other eligibility requirements. Thus, these visas require more time for processing than others. 

●        Accuracy and completeness of the application

Before submitting your visa application, you must cross-check that the application is complete and the details are accurate. Otherwise, an incomplete application or missing documents can lead to unwanted delays. If the immigration officials ask for additional information during the verification, the processing time will be longer. Moreover, errors and inconsistencies cause delays as additional verification from immigration officers is required in such cases.

  • Country of residence

The applicant’s country of residence plays a crucial role in the processing time of the Canadian visas. There are several geopolitical factors, security concerns, and diplomatic relationships that affect the visa processing time for applicants from specific countries. 

●        Security and background verification

Certain visa categories need extensive and complex background check-ups. For instance, study visas require checking of criminal records and medical examinations. Thus, these security and background check-ups extend the processing time. Also, the applicant's country of residence may cause a longer time for background and security verification. 

●       Particular visa office

You need to be aware of the fact that visa processing time in India also depends on the visa office handling your application. Some visa offices handle a large amount of applications. Thus, you will experience delays in visa application processing.

Processing time for different application types

Regular visitor visa: A regular Canadian visitor visa takes about 2 and 3 weeks to process and complete.

Tourist visa: A tourist visa for Canada also takes about 2 to 3 weeks to complete and get approval.

Student visa: The government of Canada proceeds with your study permit based on your location. If you apply for your study permit through Student Direct Stream (SDS), it will proceed faster. Generally, the Canadian government processes the SDS applications within 3 weeks. 

Work permit: The processing time for a Canadian work visa depends upon several factors, such as the country of residence, specific work program, and the completeness of the application. Depending upon these factors, the processing time takes between 3 and 6 months. 

You can contact leading Canadian visa consultants in India, i.e., Western Overseas, to learn more about the visa processing time.

Tips for a smooth visa application process in Canada

Here are some tips for you to ensure a smooth application process –

  • First, you should choose the right immigration program. Canada has several immigration programs for skilled workers. These programs are divided into three categories: Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker, and Federal Skilled Traders. Also, the country offers several visa programs for the family class, humanitarian class, and refugee. So, you must select the right program depending on your eligibility and interest.
  • Arrange all the required documents in advance to avoid delays in the visa application process. So, you must check the list of required documents from the Government of Canada website. Also, you may need to provide additional documents if required.
  • Submit a complete and accurate application. Cross-check your application before submitting it. You can ask for help from your immigration officer to submit an error-free application.
  • The IRCC may ask you the reason behind a specific gap in your profile. For example, they might ask you the reason behind the study history or work experience gap. So, you need to explain the genuine reason behind the gaps. 
  • Moreover, you can ask for help from an RCIC (Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council) registered consultant. It will multiply the chance of a smooth visa process. 

Conclusion

Hopefully, now you have an understanding of Canada visitor visa processing time. The period depends upon several factors like background verification, country of residence, medical check-up, and more. So, you need to follow the guidelines and eligibility requirements for the visa application from the official website of the Canadian government. Also, follow the tips mentioned above to avoid any hassle.