Visitor Visa Canada: Single or Multiple-Entry and Officers’ Discretion in 2024

In November 2024, Immigration Canada, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced updated rules for Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs). These changes grant immigration officers greater discretion in determining the validity period and entry limits for visitor visas. The IRCC announcement may be found here.

Key Updates to Visitor Visa Canada Rules

1. Multiple-Entry Visa Validity

Previously, multiple-entry visas had a maximum validity period of up to 10 years or the validity of the applicant’s travel document. While multiple-entry visas can still be issued, their duration may now vary.

2. Increased Discretion of Immigration Canada Officers

Under the updated policy, immigration officers have the authority to:

• Issue either single-entry or multiple-entry visas.
• Determine the visa’s validity period based on the applicant’s circumstances.

This discretion means that officers can issue multiple-entry visas with shorter durations than the previously common 10-year maximum.

3. Factors Influencing Visa Decisions

The choice between a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, as well as its validity period, now depends heavily on factors assessed by immigration officers. Common reasons for visa refusals and further details are available on our website. Learn more about Temporary Resident Application refusals here.

What Do These Changes Mean for You?

The updated policy emphasizes case-by-case decision-making. A multiple-entry visa is no longer the default option. Instead, the immigration officer will evaluate your application based on:

• The purpose of your travel.
• The frequency of your intended visits.

Tips for Success

With increased officer discretion, submitting a well-prepared application is more important than ever. Ensure your application is:

• Complete and accurate.
• Supported by strong documentary evidence.

If your application is refused, you may pursue a Judicial Review (JR), a legal process to challenge IRCC’s decision to ensure it’s lawful and fair.

Can You Submit the Application Yourself?

After watching the video, reading the blogs, and exploring the material on both our
and the government website, you may feel confident in submitting your application
independently. To assist you, we offer a free sample invitation letter, which can be
downloaded from our website.

How We Can Help

If, after conducting research, you find the process too challenging or
overwhelming—especially with the recent changes to the visitor visa policy with the
enhanced power to the officer — we are here to help:

• Evaluating your specific situation and addressing past refusals.
• Advising whether a single-entry or multiple-entry visa is more suitable.
• Assisting with the preparation and submission of your application.
• Guiding you in gathering the necessary documents to maximize approval chances.

Having in mind the discretionary power given to immigration officers by the updated
policy, and having expert support can ensure your application is diligently prepared
and you are properly represented. In the event of a refusal, your application would
be JR-ready. With these changes, it’s crucial to have expert guidance to ensure a
smooth application process.