Canada has announced that it will be able to process only 50% of the visa applications from India before the end of this year.

Canada's Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, has conveyed that by the conclusion of 2023, the department will only manage to process roughly 50% of the visa applications submitted by Indian applicants. Originally, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) had aimed to process 38,000 visas by December. However, owing to resource constraints on the ground in India, the revised estimate now stands at approximately 20,000 visas.

Canada has issued a temporary suspension of visa services and in-person consular assistance in Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Mumbai, with these services being exclusively provided at the Canadian High Commission in Delhi. It is important to note that India had previously halted visa processing in Canada a month ago but has now resumed certain visa processes.

Canada's immigration policies and updates

Express Entry Changes:

Canada continued to make adjustments to its Express Entry system, which is the primary pathway for skilled workers to become permanent residents. These changes often included updates to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) and the invitation rounds for various immigration programs.

Family Sponsorship:

Canada has been actively processing family sponsorship applications, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their eligible family members for immigration.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):

Many provinces and territories in Canada have their own immigration programs to nominate candidates for permanent residence. These programs have seen regular adjustments and updates, making it easier for candidates to apply.

COVID-19 Impact:

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on immigration processes. Canada introduced travel restrictions, quarantine requirements, and other measures to manage the pandemic's effects on immigration and border control.

Language Proficiency:

Proficiency in English and French continued to be an important factor in immigration eligibility, with language tests like IELTS and CELPIP remaining a crucial part of the application process.

Study in Canada:

Canada has been actively promoting itself as a destination for international students. The government has made it easier for students to obtain study permits and has introduced post-graduation work permit programs.

Refugee and Humanitarian Programs:

Canada maintained its commitment to welcoming refugees and offered pathways for individuals in need of humanitarian protection.

Express Entry Draws:

Express Entry draws took place regularly, with candidates receiving invitations to apply for permanent residency. The CRS scores varied, and the frequency of draws fluctuated.

Global Talent Stream:

Canada has been keen on attracting skilled workers and talents from around the world. The Global Talent Stream program has been introduced to facilitate the entry of high-skilled workers and professionals.

Biometrics:

Biometric requirements were extended to include more applicants, and this process has been a mandatory part of the application for many visa categories.