Canada has announced that it will no longer automatically issue 10-year multiple-entry visas to tourists, reflecting new guidelines from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Previously, eligible visitors were often granted long-term visas, allowing them multiple entries over a decade. Under the updated guidelines, immigration officers now have more discretion in determining the type and duration of visas, allowing for shorter validity periods based on individual assessments. This shift marks the end of the default 10-year multiple-entry visa, as each application will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
“Guidance has been updated to indicate that multiple-entry visas issued to maximum validity are no longer considered to be the standard document,” said the IRCC. “Officers may exercise their judgement in deciding whether to issue a single or multiple-entry visa and in determining the validity period.”
Under the new approach, officers can opt for either single-entry or multiple-entry visas, depending on the traveler’s specific needs and circumstances. Single-entry visas have traditionally been issued for specific occasions, such as official visits or single events, while multiple-entry visas allowed visits for up to 10 years or until one month before the passport’s expiration. With the policy change, maximum-validity multiple-entry visas will no longer be standard.
The IRCC noted that the adjustment is part of a broader strategy to manage temporary immigration levels while addressing current challenges in housing and rising living costs. By implementing this policy shift, the Canadian government aims to align immigration practices with the country’s economic and infrastructure capabilities.
Despite the changes, the application fee for a Canadian visitor visa remains at CAD 100 per person, with no difference in cost between single-entry and multiple-entry visas. However, frequent travelers may face increased expenses due to potentially shorter visa durations requiring more frequent renewals.
In addition to this policy change, Canada announced a reduction in its targets for permanent resident admissions, lowering the 2025 target from 500,000 to 395,000, with further reductions expected in 2026 and 2027. These measures collectively underscore Canada’s commitment to balancing immigration levels with current infrastructure and economic conditions.
