The Canadian government has announced changes to its visa policy, including the termination of the 10-year multiple-entry tourist visa. This move will impact frequent travelers who previously benefited from long-term travel flexibility. Instead, Canada is expected to adopt a new approach focusing on eVisas and shorter-term visitor permits.
This policy shift aligns with Canada’s efforts to modernize its immigration processes, emphasizing digitalization and faster application reviews. For travelers, this means the need to stay updated with the latest visa requirements and potentially apply more frequently for travel authorization.
What Was the Previous Policy?
Previously, Canada offered a 10-year multiple-entry tourist visa, allowing travelers to visit Canada repeatedly without needing to reapply. This visa was particularly popular among frequent visitors, as it offered convenience and reduced administrative burdens for both applicants and immigration officials. Valid for up to 10 years or until the passport expired (whichever came first), this visa allowed a stay of up to six months per visit, making it ideal for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family.
What Has Changed?
Under the new policy, the 10-year multiple-entry visa has been discontinued, marking a significant shift in Canada’s approach to visitor entry. Instead, Canada plans to adopt a system emphasizing digital eVisas and shorter-term permits. While specific details of the replacement system are being finalized, the change reflects a global trend toward digital immigration solutions aimed at streamlining processes and improving security.
Visa Costs: Same Fee, New Terms
Although the structure of the visa has changed, the cost associated with applying for Canadian visitor visas remains largely unchanged. Applicants will pay the same processing fee; however, they may now need to reapply more frequently, depending on the duration of validity offered under the new system. This could result in higher cumulative costs for frequent travelers who previously benefited from long-term validity.
In addition to the visa updates, Canada has introduced several new immigration measures, including:
- Lowering Permanent Resident Targets: Canada’s immigration levels plan has been revised, reducing the target for new permanent residents from 500,000 in 2024 to 395,000 in 2025. The target will gradually decrease over the following years, to 380,000 in 2026 and 365,000 in 2027.
- Cap on International Students: To control the growing number of international students, Canada has introduced a cap on student permits. This is expected to reduce international student numbers by about 300,000 over the next three years.
- Restrictions on Temporary Foreign Workers: The government has imposed restrictions on the hiring of temporary foreign workers, particularly in low-wage sectors. This policy aims to reduce the proportion of low-wage foreign workers by 10% to 20%.
- Reinstating Visa Requirements for Mexican Nationals: In response to rising asylum claims and unauthorized border crossings, Canada has reinstated visa requirements for Mexican citizens as of February 29, 2024.
For Nigerians and other frequent travelers, this policy change may require careful adjustments to travel planning. Afari Travels & Tours is well-equipped to provide expert guidance, ensuring clients can navigate the revised visa application process with ease. Our team remains committed to delivering a seamless and stress-free experience, helping travelers adapt to the evolving requirements while maintaining their travel plans uninterrupted.
For persons who need improved liaison and special assistance with Canada visa, there are limited slots for entry for June 2025 but entry is limited to available slots.
Contact us for limited entry slots.
