Visa Application Centres to Assist Travelers Heading to Canada
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release
As of February 23, 2018, the Government of Canada is optimizing its services for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) applicants worldwide through Visa Application Centres (VACs). These centers offer cost-effective solutions for applicants seeking to travel to Canada.
New Contract Awarded to Enhance VAC Services
The Canadian government is thrilled to announce VF Worldwide Holdings Ltd. as the newly selected supplier for the VAC contract. This decision, made via a transparent process by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) on behalf of IRCC, involves a contract initially valued at $26 million.
VACs are pivotal in assisting applicants with visa processes, including biometrics, thus facilitating smoother application reviews. The network of VACs will expand significantly over the next two years, aiming for 149 locations across 99 countries by November 2019.
Operated by third-party service providers, VACs ensure comprehensive service in regions lacking Canadian visa offices. They help reduce incomplete applications, ensuring applicants submit all necessary documentation.
Statements from Government Officials
“We are very pleased to announce the winning supplier of the Visa Application Centre contract. More than ever, people around the world are interested in applying to come to visit, work, or study in Canada. Canada competes with other countries for students, workers and visitors, who inject billions of dollars into Canada’s economy. VAC services, with competitive fees, help facilitate people’s travel, and ensure Canada remains an attractive destination.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Visa Application Centres are critical to the hundreds of thousands of people from around the world who choose to visit, work or study in Canada each year. This contract for the provision of visa application services in visa application centres was issued through a fair and transparent process. It will ensure visa applicants can easily access the services they need to come to Canada and contribute to our society.”
– The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Public Services and Procurement
Key Facts
- As of November 17, 2017, there were 137 VACs across 95 countries.
- VACs provide extended operation hours and more service points, making it easier for applicants to submit applications and biometrics. They are the primary channel for biometrics collection abroad.
- By ensuring completeness, VACs help avoid delays or refusals due to incomplete applications.
- The expanded VAC network in Asia is set to open on November 2, 2018.
- The extended network in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East will commence operations on November 2, 2019.
Associated Links
Media Contacts
Contacts for media only:
Hursh Jaswal
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs About Visa Application Centres
What is a Visa Application Centre?
VACs are third-party service providers authorized to assist applicants in processing their Canadian visa applications. They offer support for biometrics and ensure applications are complete before submission.
How does the VAC network benefit applicants?
VACs provide accessibility and convenience by offering more service points and extended hours, especially in areas without Canadian visa offices, reducing the number of incomplete applications.
When will the expanded VAC network be operational?
The expanded network in Asia is expected to open by November 2, 2018, followed by Europe, Africa, and the Middle East on November 2, 2019.
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