Canada Plans to Process 20,000 Indian Visas By the End Of 2023

Get in Touch

I agree to terms & conditions

Canada Plans to Process 20,000 Indian Visas By the End Of 2023

During a recent session of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (CIMM), Immigration Minister Marc Miller disclosed that the ambitious goal of processing 38,000 visas for Indians by December, set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), faces a setback. The department anticipates being able to process only 20,000 visas due to operational challenges.

Miller highlighted that only five IRCC members are currently available to carry out essential on-the-ground work in India, impacting the processing of applications. Consequently, there will be delays in overall processing times, responses to inquiries, and the return of visas or passports.

As a result, IRCC projects a backlog of approximately 17,500 Indian applications at the beginning of 2024. The department’s objective is to process 80% of all applications within service standards, which vary depending on the type of application. Instances include a 60-day processing target for international student visas, a 12-month goal for family-class sponsorship applications, and a six-month target for Express Entry applications.

In response to staffing challenges, in-person services at consulates in India have been temporarily halted, but IRCC will continue to accept and process applications. Certain requirements will be completed locally or on-site in a secure environment.

The pause in in-person services is a consequence of the reduction in staff following the expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats. The remaining five IRCC staff in India will focus on urgent processing, visa printing, risk assessment, and overseeing key partners such as visa application centers, panel physicians, and clinics conducting immigration medical exams.

Senior IRCC officials express optimism that Indian visa application processing will normalize by early 2024. The 22 immigration staff pulled from India are expected to resume work in Canada and the Philippines.

The reduction in staff is tied to diplomatic tensions between Canada and India stemming from the assassination of a prominent Sikh leader in Surrey, British Columbia, last June. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited credible intelligence suggesting the involvement of Indian government agents, a claim vehemently denied by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This diplomatic strain has led to the temporary closure of Indian visa processing centers in Canada and the expulsion of Canadian diplomats from India. The governments continue to navigate through this complex issue.

How can we help you?

Navigating the intricacies of the Canada PR application process can be a daunting task, but with Universal Adviser by your side, the journey becomes a seamless and well-guided experience. Our team of experts is dedicated to supporting PR candidates at every step, from assessing eligibility to preparing a compelling application.

We understand the evolving landscape of immigration policies and draw upon our knowledge to optimize your chances of success. Whether it’s deciphering the latest Express Entry draws, providing tailored advice based on your profile, or offering valuable insights into documentation, Universal Adviser is committed to ensuring that your path to Canadian permanent residency is not just efficient but also tailored to your unique circumstances. Trust us to be your ally in realizing your Canadian dream, making the process smoother, more informed, and ultimately, more satisfying.

List of Provincial Nominee Program

Recent News

Get in Touch

I agree to terms & conditions

Existing Applicant

New Applicant