New Temporary Policy
Canada’s New Temporary Policy
In a move aimed at facilitating travel and family reunification, Canada has recently introduced a new temporary policy to expedite the processing of visitor visas and Super Visas applications. This policy shift reflects the country’s commitment to creating a more efficient and accessible immigration process for individuals wanting to visit their loved ones or experience the beauty and diversity of Canada.
Visitor Visas and Super Visas: What’s the Difference?
Visitor visas and Super Visas are both types of temporary resident visas that allow individuals to enter Canada for a specific period. However, they cater to different categories of applicants.
Visitor visas are typically granted to individuals who wish to enter Canada for tourism, leisure, or short-term business purposes. They are commonly issued for stays of up to six months, allowing visitors to explore the country, meet friends and family, or attend business meetings.
2. Super Visas:
Super Visas, on the other hand, are specifically designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. These visas provide the opportunity for extended visits, allowing eligible individuals to stay in Canada for up to two years without the need to renew their status.
Issues and Challenges
As we all know, the backlog of visitor visa applications has been limiting Canada’s attractiveness to tourists and businesspersons and causing hardships for separated families. To tackle this issue head-on, the government has initiated measures to streamline eligibility requirements, aiming for a fresh start and a return to pre-pandemic processing timelines.
[Temporary Policy to Address Challenges]
On June 29, 2023, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled a temporary public policy under section 25.2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (the Act). This policy grants exemptions from specific Act and Regulations requirements for foreign nationals who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Exemptions Granted for this Temporary Policy
Under this public policy, two exemptions have been granted for certain provisions of the Act and the Regulations.
Firstly, eligible foreign nationals are exempted from proving their admissibility concerning financial reasons and demonstrating their intention to leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay.
Secondly, for those who hold a temporary resident visa following facilitation under this policy and seek to enter Canada as a visitor for the first time, the requirements to establish their intention to leave Canada by the end of their authorized stay and their financial admissibility are also exempted.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the exemption, applicants must have submitted a temporary resident visa application as a member of the visitor class on or before January 16, 2023, and they must have been 18 years of age or older on that date. Additionally, they should not have had any previous visa, study permit, work permit, or permanent resident visa application refused within the four years leading up to their current application.
Effective Date and Expiration
This new temporary public policy came into effect upon its signature and will remain active until December 31, 2023. However, it’s essential to note that the government reserves the right to revoke or modify the policy at any time without prior notice.
Canada’s new temporary policy aimed at faster processing for visitor visas and Super Visas applications demonstrates the country’s commitment to enhancing its immigration system. By reducing processing times and simplifying application procedures, the policy aims to bring families closer and encourage more people to explore Canada’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, and welcoming communities. As a nation known for its inclusive values, this policy shift exemplifies Canada’s dedication to creating a more accessible and efficient immigration process for individuals from around the world.
At Rise and Sky Immigration, we are committed to keeping you well-informed about Canada’s immigration policies and updates. The new temporary public policy is a significant stride towards welcoming tourists, businesspersons, and families back to the country. With streamlined processing and reduced eligibility requirements, Canada is ready to open its doors wider and pave the way for a strong economic recovery.
