To check immigration, Canada ends default 10-year multiple entry visa

In an attempt to check immigration, Canada has restructured its tourist visa policy, moving away from the previous norm of issuing 10-year multiple-entry visas.Under the new guidelines, immigration officers have greater discretion in deciding the type and duration of visas, which means frequent travellers may no longer be assured of long-term entry.

The policy change means that immigration officers will now decide case by case whether to issue a single or multiple-entry visa and determine its validity period. Previously, visitors holding a multiple-entry visa could enter Canada as often as needed during the visa's term, which could last up to a decade or until the expiration of their passport or biometrics.

“Guidance has been updated to indicate that multiple-entry visas issued to maximum validity are no longer considered to be the standard document. Officers may exercise their judgment in deciding whether to issue a single or multiple-entry visa and in determining the validity period,” noted a statement by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

To curtail migration

The move comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government, grappling with low approval ratings and growing frustration over issues like the housing shortage and high cost of living, has announced a reduction in both permanent and temporary immigration.

The revised visa policy could mean a shorter duration of stay, and selective entry into the country. Visitors, whose visas are nearing expiration, now need to re-think their plans for further stay.

Canada is expecting more than ten lakh temporary residents to depart as their visas expire in the coming years. The Trudeau government is also set to enforce deportations for those who overstay.

Consequently, a traveller's extended stay in Canada would mean renewing the visa, which could add to costs and visa processing times.

Canada has made significant visa changes under the Trudeau regime. In January 2024, the government announced a two-year cap on new international student visas in response to the growing housing crisis. 

According to data shared by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, 3,64,000 new permits will be approved in 2024, which could significantly impact Indians planning to study in Canada. Currently, nearly 3,20,000 Indians are residing in the country on student visas.

Difference between single-entry and multiple-entry visas

According to the IRCC website, "The main difference between these two visa types is that a single entry visa allows entry to Canada for one time only and a multiple entry visa allows entry many times. A multiple-entry visa is what all visa applicants are automatically considered for. We will review your application and issue you a visa depending on your situation.

"While valid, a multiple entry visa will let you travel to Canada for six months at a time as many times as you want. It will be valid for up to 10 years or one month before your passport expires, whichever is shorter." 

(By arrangement with livemint.com)