Canada resumes processing of eTA and visitor visa

Despite the travel restrictions expected to be in place at least until July 31, Canada has resumed visitor visa and eTA processing from July 1, 2020. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [IRCC] has begun processing – to the best of its ability – online Canada visitor visa and eTA applications.

While the travel restrictions are still applicable and most people might not yet be able to travel to Canada, IRCC has resumed processing in an attempt to be proactive on processing times in the future.

As of now, travel exemptions are for those family members of Canadians that are either travelling to Canada for an essential reason or intend staying beyond 15 days. Skilled workers and others are also covered under the travel exemption.

Similarly, those immigration candidates that had got their Canada permanent residence applications approved prior to March 18 are also exempted from the travel ban. March 18 is when the travel restrictions were imposed by Canada as part of COVID-19 special measures.

Those qualifying for an exemption from travel restrictions have been encouraged by IRCC to apply online.

Additionally, in order to gain entry into Canada, travellers must be able to prove to the Canadian Border Services Agency [CBSA] that they are coming to Canada for an essential reason.

IRCC is also processing online applications for permanent residence, work permits, and study permits. However, as of now, no paper-based applications are being accepted for such immigration documents.

In view of the service disruptions and limitations due to COVID-19, Canada has put in place various measures thereby ensuring that applicants get the time they require for completing all the steps of the application process.

Quarantine for 14 days is still mandatory for all those entering Canada from abroad. Travellers to Canada will also be required to provide the border agents with their quarantine plan after arriving into the country.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit, Invest or Migrate to Canada, talk to Y-Axis, the World’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company.

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