IRCC has made a new announcement concerning the processing of temporary visas and eTAs. The announcement says that the processing of online TRV applications and eTAs will be done until January 31, 2021.
The implementation of this new measure also takes some new categories of applicants under its purview. Such applicants are now added to the list of those exempted from submitting electronic TRV applications.
Electronically submitted applications from foreign nationals include those coming from applicants outside Canada while applying for study permits, TRV, or work permit Canada issues. In fact, these applicants are required to submit their applications electronically.
In case any foreign applicant is unable to submit their application online, they are exempt from the requirement to submit their applications online.
From October 1, 2020, the following groups of temporary residence applicants will be exempt from the requirement of online submission of applications:
- Foreign nationals with a travel or identity document, the kind issued to non-national residents, stateless persons, or refugees, who can’t get hold of a passport or other travel documents from their country of citizenship
- Applicants under the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program.
Processing of TRV applications
The Canadian government will continue giving priority to those who can travel to Canada amidst travel restrictions. The travel restrictions are in place owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. To get approval, the applicants must meet the eligibility requirements under IRPA. This is apart from having exemption from travel restrictions.
An applicant could have applied prior to the imposition of travel restrictions, and want to have his/her application on priority. In that case, it’s necessary to contact IRCC. The applicant can tell IRCC how he/she meets the exemption criteria. He/she should also explain with proof the need for the non-optional/non-discretionary travel to Canada.
Nevertheless, normal TRV application processing will continue.
Faster eTA processing
Going with the regulations in place now, applicants will continue to make online submissions of their eTA applications. Those eTA applications requiring agent review will continue as long as it can be done.
IRCC will accelerate the processing of eTA applications that need the review of officers. The review is done after the applicant meets the criteria for exemption from the current travel restrictions. Eligible candidates are invited to identify themselves. They have to submit documentation to prove their meeting the criteria for exemption. This is done via an IRCC web form.
Canada will extend its travel restrictions until at least October 31, 2020.
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.
If you found this blog engaging, you may also like…
Quebec’s largest draw of 2020 invites 365 immigrants
Note:
IRCC – Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
ETA – electronic Travel Authorization
TRV – Temporary Resident Visa
IRPA – Immigration and Refugee Protection Act