how to follow up visit visa application in canada

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This on-line service allows Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) clients to view securely the status of their immigration and/or citizenship application(s) on-line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; anytime, anywhere.

Applicants for permanent residence can receive instant email updates and more detailed, up-to-date case status by creating an online account. Find out how .

You may use this service if you have:

• sponsored a member of the family class;
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Before using this service, please be sure to have a copy of all the documents you have received regarding your application(s):

These may include one or more of the following:

• a copy of your application;
• your financial receipts (IMM 5401); or
• any letter or official document issued to you by IRCC.

Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section for answers to frequently asked questions.

Please consult Application Processing Times for information about how long it may take to process your application.

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Changes to the Web form

Please note that we’ve made some changes to the Web form.

As of November 14, 2023, when choosing to upload documents for some types of applications/enquiries, the free text box will no longer appear. If you need to provide additional information about the documents being submitted, please upload a letter of explanation with the documents.

If you want to ask general or case-specific questions about the application after uploading the documents, we invite you to submit a new IRCC Web form.

You may use this form if:

• You have submitted an application or profile .
• Your application has exceeded normal processing times . We will not respond to your enquiry if the application is within normal processing times .
• You wish to report important changes, such as a change in contact information, births, deaths, marriages, divorces, adoptions, changes in employment, withdrawal of application, refund request, or urgent requests. If you are reporting a change in contact information, it will take 5 business days for it to be updated. During this time you should continue to monitor your old contact information .
• You wish to add, change or cancel a representative and you are ready to upload your Use of Representative Form (IMM5476) or you authorize IRCC to release information from your case file and you are ready to upload your Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual (IMM5475).
• proof of travel (itinerary or ticket) that shows your full name, destination and travel dates;
• proof of payment for the travel that shows the date you paid, the full amount you paid, and how you paid;
• a letter explaining the reason for the urgency ; and
• proof of the urgency (e.g. a doctor’s note, death certificate, or letter from your employer).
• type of application (work permit, study permit or visitor record, etc) in the 'Your enquiry' field;
• approximate date that the application was submitted, if applicable, in the 'Your enquiry' field.
• complete address (including the postal code) in the 'Your enquiry' field. If the residential address is different from the mailing address, please provide both addresses;
• Unique Client Identifier (UCI) number / Client ID number, if you have one;
• online application reference number, if you have one;
• telephone number. If you have more than one contact number, please provide them all;
• screenshot(s), if possible.

Please select the name of the application that you have applied for. You must have already submitted the application in order to send your enquiry.

You will receive a confirmation by email as soon as the documents have been added to the file. If you need to provide additional information about the documents you are submitting, please upload a letter of explanation with the documents.

If you also want to ask general or case-specific questions about the application, we invite you to submit a new IRCC Web form .

Dependent child must be 19 or 20 or 21 years of age.

Information of dependent child

Your message must be in English or French, Canada's official languages. (Please limit the text to 1500 characters).

Note: If you are submitting an address change, include your new address (street name, street number, city, province, postal code and country). If you are submitting a change in email address, include and specify your old email address and your new email address.

A family name is a last name. A last name is also referred to as a surname.

For example: If a person's name is Mark Paul Jenkins, his last name is Jenkins. Family name as per your current passport/travel document.

A given name is the name(s) given to a person at birth and by which that person is most commonly referred to. A person's given name includes his or her first name and middle name.

For example: If a person's name is Mark Paul Jenkins, his given name is Mark Paul. Given name as per your current passport/travel document. If you do not have a given name you may enter N/A in the Given name field.

This is the day that you indicated when you were born on your application to IRCC.

If you do not know your date of birth, you may have entered the date that appears on your passport, travel document or identity document. If your date of birth has only the year (e.g. 1985/**/**), you may select January for the Month and 01 for the day.

This is where you were born. It is the country you have entered on your application to IRCC.

A Client ID Number, also referred to as a Unique Client Identifier Number (UCI), can be found on any official document issued by an IRCC office, Case Processing Centre or a Canadian visa office outside Canada.

A person who has never dealt with IRCC before will not have a UCI. If you do not have a UCI, leave the field blank.

If adding a dependent child, please input the Principal Applicant’s (i.e. the parent’s) “Client ID number”, also known as unique client identifier (UCI).

An application number can be found on any official document or correspondence issued by an IRCC office, Case Processing Centre or a Canadian visa office outside Canada.

If adding a dependent child, please input the Principal Applicant’s (i.e. the parent’s) “Application ID number”.

Representative: A person who has the permission of someone wanting to immigrate to Canada to conduct business with IRCC on their behalf. The representative can be paid or unpaid. When someone appoints a representative, they may also authorize IRCC to share information from their case file with this person. Canada’s immigration law covers representatives and defines the terms of their services.

See Immigration consultant , Authorized representative .

If you are a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant then please enter your member number here.

Leave this section blank if you are not a consultant or you are not using a consultant for your application.

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants are approved by the Immigrant Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council. Consultants may represent a client before IRCC.

By supplying your email address (in your enquiry or previously in your application), you have initiated an email communication with IRCC. By this action, you have authorized IRCC to use the email address provided by you for communication with you including the transmission of personal information on your file/case. When you supply your email address to IRCC, it is also understood that you are aware that this channel may not be a secure channel. IRCC is not liable for the electronic disclosure of personal information to a third party where IRCC has taken reasonable means to ensure the identity of the party. IRCC is also not liable for the misuse of this information by a third party.

See IRCC policy on internet use .

Protect your personal information: IRCC takes the confidentiality of your information seriously as we use sophisticated security techniques to protect your privacy. Clients should be careful to protect their application number, client ID number, date of birth and all other personal identification information. As these personal identifiers may allow individuals to receive information about their files from IRCC via email, clients should not share this information with unauthorized third parties.

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Canada Visitor Visa: How Can You Submit a Strong Application?

By ksenia tchern.

As of September 7th, 2021, fully vaccinated foreign nationals are legally entitled to enter Canada for non-essential reasons (e.g. visiting family or friends, or seeing the country’s considerable sights).

All travellers are eligible to enter, regardless of their citizenship, and those who qualify have no need to perform a test on arrival (though you may still be chosen for a random, non-optional test).

How can you qualify as a fully vaccinated traveller to visit Canada?

You must meet the following criteria to be recognized as a fully vaccinated traveller:

• Received a full course of COVID-19 vaccinations with one, or a combination, of accepted vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson).
• Received your final vaccination at least 14 full days before the day on which you enter Canada.
• Uploaded evidence of COVID-19 vaccination in ArriveCAN.
• Present no symptoms or signs of COVID-19.
• Meet additional entry requirements, specified here .

As a foreign national who wants to enter Canada, you must confirm whether or not you are visiting from a visa-exempt country. If you’re NOT, you must successfully apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), otherwise known as a visitor visa, before you can gain entry.

A TRV is a document that enables foreign nationals to enter Canada. It’s suitable for temporary workers, students, and tourists.

But as TRV applications can initially appear fairly straightforward, many applicants mistakenly overlook its seriousness — and fail to include essential information or documents.

Those individuals will inadvertently sabotage their chance to gain entry to Canada for a vacation, study trip, or family visit.

Follow these crucial tips to submit a strong application.

Prove you plan to return home

One of the most important factors to consider is that a TRV is a temporary visa — so the officer processing your application must be convinced that your visit is only temporary.

They may reject you if they have any reason to suspect that you intend to stay in Canada for longer than you claim.

It’s vital that you provide proof that you have sufficient ties to your home country to ensure you return. Immigration officers must believe that you have obligations or personal connections outside Canada.

But the proof must be strong enough to satisfy immigration officers. That means a simple letter from a relative promising that you will honor the rules of your TRV and return home won’t do. It should be from a more reliable source.

For example, if you care for a loved one in your home country (such as an ill parent), you could submit a letter from their physician to confirm that you have good reason to leave Canada at the end of your visit.

Explain a lack of travel history

If you have no travel history at the time of application, you should provide a comprehensive explanation.

Perhaps you’ve spent years earning qualifications with no time for travel, have lived on a tight budget to save for this trip, or you’ve been caring for family members. You would need to provide evidence to support your explanation in any case.

Demonstrating work responsibilities

Another key step in applying for your TRV is securing a confirmation of your employment. If you’ve booked vacation time away from work, your employer should state that they have granted you permission to take a vacation and expect you to return on a specific date.

Submit detailed plans

You should also describe your plans for your trip to Canada. This should be more detailed than a list of the places you intend to visit or the people you’ve arranged to have coffee with.

Instead, supply a day-by-day itinerary listing:

• Excursions booked.
• Events you’ve researched and plan to attend.
• Names and addresses of friends and family members you will spend time with.

You should purchase tickets for any special events or ceremonies you plan to visit before you apply for your TRV. You can include evidence of these in your application to support your claim.

This is a simple step but will show the immigration officer that you have planned your visit to Canada in detail.

Prove that you can support yourself

You must show that you can support yourself during your travels. The best way to do so is to gather bank statements from the six months prior to your trip, and a letter from your employer to confirm your salary.

Both will show immigration officers that you have adequate funds to care for yourself for the duration of your temporary residence.

You should have enough to cover your accommodation, food, entry to venues/events, public transportation/car rentals, and any other necessary expenses.

Consider processing times carefully

It’s vital that you plan ahead and keep potential processing times in mind before you apply.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)’s TRV processing times vary based on different countries’ visa offices. You can check processing times on the IRCC website : just choose the type of application you want to submit, and where you’re applying from, to see an expected timeframe.

Prepare for possible long waits before you apply, to ensure you have more than enough time to complete and submit your application. This is particularly important if you have a specific event or occasion to attend in Canada, such as a festival, graduation, or wedding.

How long do visitor visas last for?

TRVs remain valid for 10 years, but each visit is capped at six months.

The majority of visitors will be able to stay in Canada for the full six months, but border services officers at the port of entry may allow you to stay for more or less than six months. They’ll put the date by which you need to leave Canada in your passport, and may also provide you with a visitor record which also carries this date.

You may also be required to supply biometrics — your fingerprints and photo — with your application.

At Abramovich & Tchern, we’re experienced immigration lawyers in Toronto. We’re here to help you submit applications that align with officers’ expectations and essential criteria.

To learn more about our services, please contact our team today .

Ksenia Tchern

Related posts, the top three reasons your immigration file is stuck in ircc’s ‘review required’ and how to get it out.

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Visitor Visa checklist: Everything you need to apply and visit Canada

A visitor visa is needed to come to Canada as a tourist, or on a quick trip to visit family, or do business for individuals of many countries.

Anyone who is not a permanent or temporary resident of Canada (those with a work or study permit) will need a visitor visa to enter the country. However, citizens of certain countries do not need a visitor visa and can instead pursue an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). eTAs are a more streamlined form or travel authorisation available to nationals of countries that have visa-free travel agreements with Canada. For answers to common questions on eTAs, click here .

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

What is needed to get a Canadian visitor visa?

1. Complete the needed forms

Depending on whether you are applying inside or outside of Canada, you will need to fill in different forms. Those applying outside of Canada will require:

• Application for temporary resident visa (IMM 5257);
• Family information form (IMM 5707);
• Statutory declaration of common-law union (IMM 5409);
• Use of representative (IMM 5476)—Note this is only required if you have used the services of a representative, or if you are appointing or cancelling use of a representative; and
• Authority to release personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475)—Note this form is only required if you authorise Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to release information from your case file to someone other than yourself (i.e.: a representative or authorised relative).

2. Collect the needed documentation

In addition to the above forms, applicants for a visitor visa will need to following documentation in support of their request:

• Receipt of fee payment;
• A photocopy of the information page of your passport, including: the passport number, issuance and expiry dates, and your photo, name, issue date, and place of birth;
• Two photos meeting the requirements of the visa application photograph specifications . On the back of these two photos applicants must write their name and date of birth. If applicants are required to provide biometric fingerprints and photo they do not have to attach these photos;
• Proof of financial support, proving that you can support yourself and any family member accompanying you while you are in Canada;
• Photocopy of your marriage license or certificate (if relevant);
• Letter explaining the purpose of your travel;
• Photocopy of your current immigration status (if your country of residence differs from the country of citizenship listed on your passport, you must provide proof of legal status in your country of residence);
• Minors travelling alone or with one parent must provide custody documents or a letter of authorisation from the other non-accompanying parent of a letter of authorisation signed by both parent or legal guardians; and
• Any other additional documents required by the responsible visa office in your region.

Note that application forms completed online must be completed and validated with the generation of a barcode. If completed on a computer, these barcodes will be automatically attached to the immigration forms, otherwise they must be printed and placed at the top of an application if applying by paper.

How to pay required fees and prove fee payment to IRCC

There are two kinds of fees that applicants for a visitor visa may need to pay. These are application processing fees, and biometric fees. Those who do not need to provide biometrics may be exempt from the second set of fees—find out if you need to give biometrics here .

Application processing fees for visitor visas are $100 CAD per person, and $500 CAD for a family (five or more people).

Biometrics fees on the other hand are $85 CAD per person, and $170 per family (two or more people).

These fees may be subject to change and cannot be refunded regardless of the decision reached on your application. In addition, the only accepted method to pay these fees is online.

After following the given instructions and completing the process, you must wait until an official IRCC receipt is issued with a barcode. Applicants are advised to save this file and attach a copy of it to their application.

How to provide proof of financial support

There are several documents that you can use to prove that you can support yourself and any dependents that accompany you while you are visiting Canada.

Some examples include cash, certified cheque, bank draft, or money order in a large enough amount to cover all reasonable expenses incurred during your stay in Canada.

In addition, written or verbal statements (which can be verified) can also be used, provided that they satisfy an officer that sufficient financial support from friends and/or family has been arranged and can cover reasonable incurable expenses during your stay.

Other documents include bank statements, a letter of employment or previous tax filing information,

How to write a “purpose of travel” letter

All foreign nationals entering Canada must be able to satisfy an officer at their time of entry that they have legitimate reasons to enter and reside in Canada. In the context of a visitor visa, this can often also include proving that you (the foreign national) will leave Canada once the period of your authorised stay expires.

In some cases, visitor visa applicants may also need a letter of invitation from a Canadian citizen or permanent resident .

Applying with family members

Visitor visa applicants wishing to bring their family with them on their trip to Canada must complete an application form for each family member. All applications may be submitted together online or at the VAC where you will send your application on paper. A single receipt may also be given for all included applications.

Lastly all family members and dependents must meet all requirements for temporary residence in Canada.

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Canada Visitor Visa: Comprehensive Step-Wise Guide to Apply 

• 15 March 2024, 9:30 AM EDT 15 March 2024, 9:30 AM EDT

Last Updated On 15 March 2024, 9:30 AM EDT (Toronto Time)

A Canada Visitor Visa , officially documented in your passport, signifies that you meet the necessary requirements to enter Canada temporarily.

This visa will be added to your passport and will allow you to explore Canada.

However, getting this visa involves some steps. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.

Our easy guide will help you through the process of applying for your passport, making sure you know exactly what to do.

Follow along, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying everything Canada has to offer. 

Who Can Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa ?

The Canada Visitor Visa , also known as a temporary resident visa , is designed for individuals who wish to enter Canada for a temporary period. To be eligible, applicants must: 

• Have a valid travel document, such as a passport. 
• Be in good health. 
• Have a letter of invitation if you are visiting a family member or friend
• Have no criminal or immigration-related convictions. 
• Convince an immigration officer that they have ties to their home country, like a job, home, financial assets, or family, which will ensure their return. 
• Prove that they will leave Canada at the end of their visit. 
• Have sufficient funds for their stay. 

Read More: Visitors inside Canada can apply for Work Permit until 2025

Who’s not allowed for a Canada Visitor Visa :  

Some individuals may be inadmissible to Canada for criminal activity, human rights violations, or financial reasons.

Understanding these criteria is crucial before applying for a Canada Visitor Visa . 

Click here to learn more about inadmissibility.

How to Apply for Canada Visitors Visa in 2024 ? 

The application process for a Canada Visitor Visa varies depending on the purpose of your visit.

Whether you’re travelling for tourism, business, or to visit family, it’s essential to select the appropriate category and provide the required documents to support your application.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a Canada Visitor Visa . 

You’ll need to create a GCKey account . Following the creation of your GCKey , you will receive an invite code via email.

Using this invite code, sign up on the new IRCC portal and follow the steps outlined below to apply.

First, you must specify whether you are applying for yourself, someone else, or both.

To begin the procedure, select the relevant choice from the “ Before You Start Your Application ” page.

When you select one of the three alternatives, you will be asked the following question: “Do you already have an application in process?” Choose “yes” or “no,” depending on your situation.

If you select “Yes,” indicating that your application is in progress, you can apply again and withdraw your current application. However, you may not receive a refund. 

However, if you still want to proceed, click “I understand and wish to apply.” The page that appears when you click yes for your application in progress is shown below. 

The next step describes what happens if you pick “no,” which means there is no application in process. 

If you do not have an application in progress, you must create an online account and register with an email address.

Therefore, click “Get an IRCC Portal account.” 

When you register with your email, you will receive a code to create an account. Then, you can fill out the online form and upload your documents.

You may be asked to answer some of the questions that will generate the list of required papers. 

However, you can utilize this site to answer the question, “Why are you visiting Canada?” Then, based on your response, you can receive a list of supporting papers required for a visiting visa application. 

After you’ve uploaded all of your documents, you’ll be required to pay a $100 processing charge. You can pay this fee using a credit or prepaid card from Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, JCB®, or UnionPay®.

Biometrics Collection : Schedule and attend a biometrics collection appointment, if required, to provide your fingerprints and photo. 

Application Processing : Wait for your application to be processed by Canadian immigration authorities . This typically takes a few weeks, but processing times may vary. 

Check Application Status : Use the application status tracker to monitor the progress of your visa application and receive updates. 

Once a decision is made on your application, you will be notified of the outcome. If approved, you will receive your Canada Visitor Visa . 

Check your visa’s status online:  

There is a quick online check that lets you know where your application stands without waiting for a letter or email.

Just follow these simple steps: 

• Go Online : Visit the official website where you applied for your visa. 
• Log In : Use your account details to log in. You’ll need your application number and personal information. 
• Check Status : Once logged in, look for the section that says “Check Application Status.” 
• Find Out : You’ll see if your visa is approved, pending, or needs more information. 

Read More: Top 10 Canada Visitor Visa Refusal Reasons

If your Canada Visitor Visa application is approved, you will receive an official document to be placed in your passport.

However, possession of a visa does not guarantee entry into Canada.

Upon arrival, you’ll undergo an identity check, and a border services officer will determine your eligibility to enter and stay in Canada.

Prepare for Your Arrival into Canada

As you prepare for your journey to Canada, ensure you have the necessary documents for smooth entry into the country.

Here’s what you need to know: 

Documents Required : Depending on your circumstances, you may need additional documents upon arrival in Canada.

This includes authorization for minor children to travel with you and any invitation letters you’ve received. 

Entry Requirements : Upon arrival in Canada, immigration officers will conduct identity checks and verify that you meet all entry requirements.

Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your visit and your intended length of stay. 

Length of Stay : Typically, visitors to Canada are allowed to stay for up to six months.

However, the border services officer has the discretion to limit or extend your stay based on the purpose of your visit. 

Ensure that you provide truthful and complete information to immigration officers.

Any false or incomplete information could result in a denial of entry into Canada.

By following these steps and guidelines, you can navigate the process of applying for a Canada Visitor Visa with confidence. 

What is the Canada Canada Visitor Visa processing time?   

Canada visitor visa processing times vary depending on your country of citizenship. Below are the country-wise latest processing times for our top 5 countries of readers:

India: 23 Days Nigeria: 154 Days United States: 14 Days Pakistan: 110 Days Philippines: 27 Days

How long can I stay in Canada on a visitor visa?

Visitors to Canada can stay for up to six months. However, the border services officer at the time of entrance may allow you to stay for longer or shorter than six months.

What should I do if my Canada Visitor Visa application is denied?   

Understand the reasons for refusal, correct the issues raised, and consider reapplying or seeking legal advice if necessary. 

Can I extend my stay after 6 months on a visitor visa from within Canada?

Yes, you can apply to extend your stay on a visitor visa beyond 6 months from within Canada using the application for visitor record or extension .

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Visitor Visa checklist: Everything you need to apply and visit Canada

Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you’re coming for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending a business conference, obtaining a visitor visa is a

Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you’re coming for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending a business conference, obtaining a visitor visa is a crucial step in the process. Navigating the application process can be daunting, but with the right information and preparation, you can increase your chances of success. This article serves as your comprehensive guide, outlining everything you need to know and do to apply for and visit Canada on a visitor visa.

Determine Your Eligibility:

Before diving into the application process, it’s essential to determine if you are eligible for a visitor visa to Canada. Factors such as your country of citizenship, purpose of visit, and personal circumstances can impact your eligibility. Generally, you will need to demonstrate ties to your home country, such as employment, family, and financial assets, to show that you intend to return after your visit to Canada.

Gather Required Documents:

To apply for a visitor visa, you will need to gather a variety of documents to support your application. These may include:

– Valid passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for the duration of your planned stay in Canada.

– Completed visa application form: Fill out the appropriate form for your type of visit, whether it’s for tourism, family visit, or business.

– Passport-sized photographs: Follow the specific guidelines provided by the Canadian government for acceptable photo specifications.

– Proof of financial support: Provide evidence that you can financially support yourself during your stay in Canada, such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, or proof of employment.

– Travel itinerary: Outline your travel plans, including details of your accommodation, transportation, and activities in Canada.

– Invitation letter (if applicable): If you’re visiting family or friends, a letter of invitation from your host in Canada may strengthen your application.

– Additional supporting documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents such as employment letters, property ownership papers, or proof of ties to your home country.

Pay the Application Fee:

There is a non-refundable fee associated with applying for a visitor visa to Canada. The fee amount varies depending on the type of visa you’re applying for and your country of residence. Ensure that you pay the correct fee and keep the receipt as proof of payment.

Submit Your Application:

Once you have gathered all the required documents and paid the application fee, it’s time to submit your application. You can apply online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or through a visa application center (VAC) in your country. Follow the instructions carefully and double-check that you have included all necessary documents to avoid delays in processing.

Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required):

Depending on your country of residence, you may be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) as part of the visa application process. If biometrics are required, you will need to schedule an appointment at a designated biometrics collection center.

Wait for Processing:

After submitting your application and biometrics (if required), the processing time for a Canadian visitor visa can vary. It’s essential to check the current processing times on the IRCC website for your specific visa office. During this waiting period, avoid making any travel arrangements until you receive a decision on your visa application.

Receive Your Visa and Travel to Canada:

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive a visa stamp in your passport or a visa approval letter. Review the visa details carefully to ensure accuracy and validity dates. With your visa in hand, you’re now ready to travel to Canada and enjoy your visit.

Obtaining a visitor visa to Canada requires careful planning, organization, and attention to detail. By following this checklist and ensuring you have all the necessary documents and information, you can streamline the application process and increase your chances of a successful visit to Canada. Remember to start the process well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for sufficient processing time. With proper preparation, you’ll soon be exploring the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse cultures that Canada has to offer.

With our team of dedicated travel experts Jacinth immigrations, we offer a seamless planning process, taking care of all the details so you can focus on the thrill of your upcoming adventure.

Reach us via email:  [email protected]  or click on the consultation icon above to book a consulting session with us.

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What To Do If Your Visa or Immigration Application is Delayed

January 10, 2022 By Babajide Kupoluyi and Tianyang Min

In the event of an undue processing delay, applicants can follow-up with the IRCC in several ways before requesting an Order of Mandamus from Federal Court.

People who want to study, work or immigrate to Canada must submit a complete and accurate application package to Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Sometimes though, even when the applicant has done this, the processing period can drag on for months or even years.

In the event of an undue processing delay, and as a last resort, one can request an Order of Mandamus from Federal Court to compel the IRCC to decide the case. Before doing so though, the applicant must exhaust all other options of following up with IRCC after the expected processing time has passed.

Follow-up Options

Applicants have a few options for following up on their application:

• For applications submitted after 2010, file an ATIP (Access to Information and Privacy) application requesting their GCMS (Global Case Management System) notes. If the application was submitted before 2010, the applicant can request their CAIPS (Computer Assisted Immigration Processing System) or FOSS (Field Operations Support System) notes, along with GCMS records. (GCMS replaced both CAIPS and FOSS around 2010.) Due to COVID-19, if the ATIP application was submitted by paper outside Canada, it can take six to twelve months to process it in some countries. The GCMS notes may give you an idea if anything is wrong. If the IRCC officer has noted concerns or doubts, take this opportunity to submit additional evidence addressing those doubts, especially if the immigration application is in its early stages of processing.
• File one or more webform inquiries or call the IRCC customer center to see if the IRCC can provide a substantive response.
• If inquiries to the IRCC do not work, try asking the local Member of Parliament to file a status update request. This is normally an unpaid service.
• If the applicant submitted their application by themselves and completed the above actions, ask a lawyer to submit a formal request letter via the IRCC webform.

Applicants and their lawyers are not required by law to complete all the above actions. But if they have exhausted all attempts to get information from the IRCC, they have a better case for a mandamus application.

In practice, many applicants regularly ask the IRCC for updates about the status of their application. But unfortunately, some applicants may be asking for information outside of what the IRCC can provide. For example, some applicants have used the IRCC inquiry form to ask whether they can leave Canada while waiting for their Open Work Permit. This question is asking for legal advice instead of following up on their application status. A better inquiry would be: “I am writing to you to follow up whether my application is complete and whether I need to provide additional documents.” The applicant can submit any number of inquiries, but they should focus only on asking for information the IRCC can provide.

If an applicant still cannot get any substantive update regarding their application status, they can consider other options. For example, asking a local Member of Parliament to file a status update request or hiring a lawyer to send a formal request. Regardless of what method the applicant adopts, they must remember to write politely instead of blaming the IRCC for the delay.

Applying for an Order of Mandamus

If the average processing time the IRCC posted has passed and the efforts described above were unsuccessful, then the last resort is to apply for an Order of Mandamus. The Federal Court hears requests for these orders, which compel the IRCC to make a decision about the application. The applicant might think about hiring a lawyer to help them.

Before applying to court though, the applicant and their lawyer should consider three basic questions:

• Is the application complete?
• Have they exhausted all other options to follow up with the IRCC?
• Has there been an unreasonable delay in the processing time?

If the application is not complete, this will cause delays. Hence the suggestion for confirming with the IRCC in an inquiry whether the application is complete. If the IRCC asks the applicant to submit additional documents during the processing, this will extend the processing time. If the IRCC replies that the client’s application is complete and still in processing, the applicant can move to the next step in following up.

Regarding the second question, a formal lawyer request letter is often a good choice before applying for an Order of Mandamus. Unlike a demand letter, a formal lawyer request letter not only emphasizes how much the processing time has exceeded the average processing time, but also the applicant’s efforts to follow up with the IRCC. More importantly, this letter focuses more on how the delay has negatively impacted the applicant.

In Canada, the threshold for an Order of Mandamus is high. There are eight conditions that should be satisfied to warrant an Order of Mandamus, as per the 1994 Federal Court of Appeal case of Apotex v. Canada . And one of the conditions is “balance of convenience”.

One example of balance of convenience that may be in favour of an applicant who is already in Canada is the applicant not being able to renew their driver’s license unless they provide the registry office with a valid work permit rather than a document showing the client has “ maintained status ” . Another example is that the applicant’s health card will likely not be renewed until the applicant presents an unexpired study permit or work permit. If the applicant has good evidence to show the balance of convenience favours them, the lawyer’s letter will be more convincing.

Regarding the third question, in 2021 the Federal Court held in Ghufran Almuhtadi v Canada that a delay may be unreasonable if the following three criteria are met:

• the delay in question is prima facie (at first glance) longer than the nature of the process required
• the applicants are not responsible for the delay, and
• the authority responsible for the delay has not provided satisfactory justification.

Patience is Key

In conclusion, no matter how confident an applicant and their lawyer are, going to court is a stressful process that takes time and money. If the applicant is waiting double or triple the average processing time – which starts the day the IRCC receives your complete application and ends when the IRCC decides on it – it may be worth going to court. But usually, I encourage applicants to be patient and try all efforts to work with the IRCC to process their application and come to a decision quickly.

Looking for more information?

• The Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Migrant Farm Workers by John Cooper March 7, 2022
• Inadmissibility and Deportation of Permanent Residents in Canada by Myrna El Fakhry Tuttle January 17, 2022
• What To Do If Your Visa or Immigration Application is Delayed by Babajide Kupoluyi January 10, 2022

The information in this article was correct at time of publishing. The law may have changed since then. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of LawNow or the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta.

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Babajide Kupoluyi is the principal lawyer at JK Law . Their key practice areas are immigration law, real estate, and corporate/commercial law as well as some civil litigation.

Tianyang Min is an immigration consultant and student-at-law at JK Law . Their key practice areas are immigration law, real estate, and corporate/commercial law as well as some civil litigation.

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How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa

Are you planning a trip to Canada ? Whether it’s for tourism, visiting friends and family, or a business visit, you may need a Canada Visitor Visa.

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Furthermore, the IRCC provides a specific online application platform for individuals applying for Canada Visitor Visas. However, it’s important to note that the processing times may differ depending on the applicant’s country of origin.

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through the process of applying for a Canada Visitor Visa using the new IRCC portal.

Who Can Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa?

Before we dive into the application process, let’s understand who can apply for a Canada Visitor Visa. To be eligible, you must:

• Have a valid travel document, like a passport.
• Be in good health.
• Demonstrate strong ties to your home country, such as a job, home, family, or financial assets.
• Convince the visa officer that you’ll leave Canada at the end of your visit.
• Show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay.

Additional Requirements:

• You may need a medical exam.
• If you’re visiting family or friends or for business purposes, a letter of invitation from a Canadian resident may be required.

Read More: IRCC Published New Policy to Speed up Visitor Visa and Super Visa Processing

How Long Can You Stay in Canada on a Visitor Visa?

As a visitor in Canada, you can stay for up to six months. However, the border services officer may allow you to stay longer or shorter, depending on your situation. 

They will record the departure date in your passport or provide you with a visiting record.

• If your passport isn’t stamped, you can stay for up to six months from the day you entered or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
• You can request a border services officer to stamp your passport if needed.

Applying for a Canada Visitor Visa: Step by Step

Now, let’s walk through the application process step by step using the new IRCC portal:

You will need to create a GCKey account. An invite code will be sent to your email address after creating your GCKey. 

Using this invite code, you will need to sign up on the new IRCC portal and follow below below-listed steps to apply.

Read More: IRCC’s New Mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication takes Effect

Step 1: Determine Your Application Type

To start your application, you need to specify if are applying only for yourself, for someone else, or both yourself and someone else.

Select the suitable option from the “Before you start your application” page to start the application process, as shown below.

Step 2: Application Status

Begin by choosing one of the three available options.

After your selection, you will encounter the following question: “Do you currently have an application in progress?” Depending on your situation, select either “Yes” or “No.”

• If you select “Yes,” indicating that you have an ongoing application, you have the option to initiate a new application and withdraw your current application. Please note that in this case, a refund may not be available.
• If you wish to proceed with your current application, select “I understand and want to apply.” 

The following page will appear once you confirm your ongoing application.

Step 3: Create an Online Account

If you don’t have an application in process, create an online account and register using your email.

Select “Get an IRCC Portal account” to create an online account.

Step 4: Receive a Code

After registration, you’ll receive a code to sign up for an account. Then you can complete the online form and upload your required documents.

Step 5: Document Submission

You may need to answer some of the prompted questions that will generate a list of necessary documents.

Use this link and answer: “Why are you visiting Canada?”  

Depending on your answer, you’ll get a list of the documents you need for your visa application.

Step 6: Pay Processing Fee

Once you’ve uploaded all your documents, pay the processing fee of $100.

Accepted payment methods include credit cards and prepaid cards from Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, JCB®, and UnionPay®.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for a Canada Visitor Visa and prepare for your upcoming visit. Remember to stay updated with any changes in the application process, and best of luck with your journey to Canada!

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How do I help a family member or friend apply to visit Canada?

Anyone who plans to visit Canada must apply from outside of Canada before they travel.

What your friend or family member needs depends on:

• the type of travel document they will travel with;
• the country that issued their travel document;
• their nationality; and
• how they will travel to Canada.

Before applying , find out what document(s) they need .

If they need a visitor visa, you may provide your family member or friend with a letter of invitation in support of their visa application. A letter of invitation can help, but it does not guarantee the person will get a visa.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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