The processing time for a Canadian visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for. A regular visitor visa typically takes 3-4 weeks, while study and work permits require at least 8-12 weeks, and permanent resident travel documents take a minimum of 4 weeks. We recommend applying for your visa 3 months in advance.
Below is the processing time table for Canadian visas:
- Visitor visa (tourism/family visit/transit/business): First response within three to four weeks from the date of application.
- Study permit visa: First response within eight weeks from the date of application.
- Temporary worker: First response within eight weeks from the date of application.
- Live-in caregiver: First response within four months from the date of application.
- Permanent resident travel document: First response within four weeks from the date of application; some applicants may require eight to twelve weeks.
We recommend applying for your visa 3 months in advance, as the complexity of each application varies, and therefore the processing times for Canadian visas differ. Certain factors may lead to longer processing times for your application, such as:
- Incomplete application.
- Medical examination required.
- Background or security checks required.
- Criminal record.
- Interview required.
- Documents need to be verified.
- Submitted by mail but did not include a clear two-dimensional barcode page.
- Or other factors that complicate the application.