Understanding the Canadian Visa Processing Time and What to Do If You Have Not Heard Back
Application for a Canadian visa can sometimes be a long and confusing process. If you applied three months ago and have not heard back yet, you might be wondering what to do. While the answer is often to ‘wait your turn,’ there are some steps you can take to ensure your application is moving along smoothly and to understand the reasons for delays.
Understanding Government Processing Times
It is not uncommon for government processing times to vary for different individuals and applications. As a fellow applicant, your sister-in-law has experienced extended processing times, receiving her visa after a 9-month wait for her second application and after a 11-month wait for her husband. Even for those with similar applications, processing times can differ significantly.
The delay in processing times is often due to the sheer volume of applications, especially from countries with high rates of fraudulent applications. According to IRCC data, some countries have a rejection rate as high as 95%, leading to a backlogs where valid applications may take up to a year to be processed. This backlog affects everyone, as fraudulent applications are processed much more slowly than genuine ones.
What to Do if You Have Not Heard Back
First, it is important to check the average processing time for your country and visa type on the IRCC website. If your wait time is longer than the average, you should consider reaching out to the Canadian Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) via their web form or by phone.
If you have exhausted all wait times and processing options, it may be tempting to ask for help from total strangers on the internet. However, the most effective way to get assistance is to directly contact the local Canadian consulate. Even though reaching out might seem too easy or obvious, it is the best course of action to ensure your application is being handled appropriately and to get detailed information about your specific case.
What If Your Application is Rejected?
Unfortunately, some applicants might face rejection based on suspicion of fraudulent activity or overstaying their visa. It is crucial to conduct thorough research on your intentions and behavior, including travel history and financial stability. If you are found to be overstepping the legal guidelines, your application will likely be denied.
In such cases, you might be advised to revise your plans and consider how to better represent yourself during the application process to avoid future rejections.
Conclusion
While the process of applying for a Canadian visa can be frustrating, especially when you have not heard back within the expected timeframe, it is important to stay informed and take the necessary steps to ensure your application is being handled properly. By checking processing times, staying in touch with the consular office, and being prepared for potential rejections, you can navigate the process more effectively and increase your chances of success.
Key Points to Remember:
Check the average processing time on the IRCC website. Use the IRCC webform or contact the local consulate if you have not heard back. Be prepared for potential rejections and be transparent in your application.