International Desk: In November 2024, Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) is going to make major changes in visitor visa issuance policy. Unlike before, multiple-entry visas will not be automatically approved this time. Instead, visas will be issued based on the applicant's needs and personal circumstances. The purpose of this change is to create more specific and customized policies, which will be tailored to the traveler's objectives and financial situation. Let's find out the details of this new policy.

canada visa

Basic concept of multiple-entry visa:
Canada's multiple-entry visa is usually valid for a specific period of time and allows a traveler to enter Canada more than once during that period. It is usually valid for up to 10 years, or until the passport or biometric information expires. However, under the new policy, visa officers will determine whether multiple-entry visas are granted at all.

Change in Multiple-Entry Visa:
As per earlier rules, if a traveler's visa was approved, it was automatically approved as multiple-entry. From now on multiple-entry visas will be subject to verification of applicant's needs, purpose of travel and financial ability.

Dependence on purpose of travel:
The purpose of travel will play a major role in the visa issuance process under the new policy. Visa officers will decide whether a single-entry or multiple-entry visa is required based on the purpose of travel. If the trip is for a specific event, such as a conference, training, or other one-time activity, a single-entry visa may be issued. It mainly applies to short-term travelers who will be leaving Canada within a certain period of time.

People who regularly travel to Canada, such as to visit family or on business, may be considered for a multiple-entry visa. However, this is no longer automatic as it used to be, and proof of regular travel is required.

According to the new rules, financial stability will play an important role in visa approval. Certain requirements must be met to ensure the applicant's financial standing.

Applicants must have proof of self-financing to demonstrate the financial ability required for repeated travel. If a family member resides in Canada and is willing to cover travel expenses, proof of relationship and financial ability of the individual must be provided.

In the case of business travelers, a letter from the employer as proof of the purpose and financing of the trip is required. Also, there are additional considerations for travelers to Canada, which help in visa approval.

If the applicant has a permanent job or family in the home country, this may be helpful in getting a multiple-entry visa approved. This proves that the applicant is more willing to stay in their home country than to stay in Canada. Earlier travelers will be checked for compliance with visa conditions and history of any visa refusals. If there is political or economic unrest in the applicant's home country, the duration of the visa may be shortened.

Why Saudi army chief Fayad al-Rawali suddenly visited Iran

These changes for 2024 point to a more stringent and regulated system of Canada's visa policy. Applicants now have to provide more evidence and information for visa approval than before. According to the new policy, the applicant must clearly state his purpose of travel, financial status and relationship with the country.