Canada has introduced significant changes to its visitor visa policies, halting the automatic issuance of 10-year multiple-entry visas. The new rules, outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), mean that multiple-entry visas with maximum validity will no longer be the standard, as posted on the federal government’s website on November 6.
Previously, visitors to Canada could receive multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years, allowing them unrestricted entry and exit over that period. Under the revised policy, visa officers will now assess each applicant individually to determine whether to grant a single or multiple-entry visa and decide its duration based on specific criteria.
The IRCC specifies that factors influencing the type and validity of visa granted include the applicant’s purpose of visit, financial stability, medical conditions, ties to their home country, and other relevant aspects. For applicants seeking multiple-entry visas, the validity period may now vary and could be shorter than the previous maximum of 10 years.
Further considerations will involve the applicant’s status in their home country, the stability of economic or political conditions there, and any changes in ties to Canada or their country of residence over time. The new policy aims to offer greater flexibility in visa issuance, aligning with Canada’s evolving immigration goals while tightening entry requirements.