Check Canada visa status: Track your application

Planning a trip to Canada is an exciting prospect, filled with anticipation for all the country has to offer. An important part of this preparation is monitoring the status of your visa application.

This blog provides a straightforward guide to checking the status of your Canada visa application online. We know how essential this information is to your travel preparations. Our goal is to keep you updated, removing any guesswork and letting you concentrate on the excitement of your upcoming Canadian journey. Let's get started!

Requirements for your Canada Visa check

When you're gearing up to check the status of your Canadian visa, there are certain essential items you must have at your disposal. Let's go through what you'll need:

1. Unique client identifier (UCI) or Client ID: This is a unique number assigned to you by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) when you submit an application. It's crucial to identify your records within the immigration system.

2. Application number: This number is provided when you submit your visa application. It's a specific identifier for your application and is essential for tracking its progress.

3. Personal Information: This includes your first and last name, birth date, and birthplace. These details must match the information you provided in your visa application.

Official Canadian Government channels

The primary online method to check the status of your Canadian visa is through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. To use this service, you'll need to create an account (if it's your first time or if you've previously used the Client Application Status tool) with your unique client identifier (UCI) or client ID, application number, and personal details like your name, date of birth, and place of birth.

For in-person assistance, you can visit a nearby Canadian embassy or consulate. They can provide information about your visa status and assist with other visa-related queries.

If you're in Canada, contacting IRCC through their call center is another option. They can provide updates on your application status. The number is 1-888-242-2100.

Online platforms for visa status checks

When tracking the status of your Canadian visa application, you have several reliable online options.

• iVisa: If you applied through our website or iVisa app, our platform is your go-to resource for tracking your Canadian visa application. The site is user-friendly, allowing easy login to view your application status. We also email updates at each step of your application, keeping you informed about any changes or necessary actions.

• IRCC mobile app: For those who prefer mobile access, the IRCC mobile app can be a convenient way to check your application status, though its availability and features might vary.

• VFS Global: Many applicants use VFS Global, a visa application center, to submit their Canada Visa applications. VFS Global has an online platform dedicated to Canadian visa applications. You can get real-time updates on your visa processing status by entering your receipt number and other required details on the website.

Step-by-step guide: Checking your Canada Visa status

Checking the status of your Canada visa is straightforward and can be done through the IRCC website or a visa application center like VFS Global.

Using the IRCC platform

1. Go to the IRCC website and navigate to the application status tracker section.

2. If this is your first time checking your application status or if you've been using the Client Application Status (CAS) tool, you'll need to create a new account. Note that you cannot reuse your CAS username and password.

3. To register, you'll need your unique client identifier (UCI) or client ID, application number, and personal details such as your first and last name, date of birth, and place of birth.

4. After creating an account, sign in to check your application status. If you applied for your visa online, click “Check status and messages” under the 'View my submitted applications or profiles' section.

5. If you applied for your visa on paper, you can still link your application to an online account. In your account, you can view the status of your application and receive messages about it.

Using VFS Global

1. Go to the VFS Global website.

2. Click on the “Track your application” section.

3. Scroll down to the section listing how you can track your application. Go to “Website” and click on “Click here.”

4. Input the required details.

5. Fill in the captcha text to prove you're not a robot.

6. After entering these details, submit them to view the current status of your visa application.

Types of Canada Visa statuses

When checking the status of your Canada Visa application on the IRCC application status tracker, you'll encounter different status updates:

• Received: Indicates that IRCC has received your application and is verifying its completeness.

• In Progress: Shows that your application is under review. Progress for each section of your application is also displayed.

• Closed: This status can mean your application is approved, refused, or you withdrew or abandoned it. IRCC will contact you before closing your application.

Each section of your application (Eligibility, Medical Exam, Background Verification, Biometrics) will have its status: Not Started, Waiting on You, In Progress, Completed, or Exempted.

Common visa status issues

Navigating the process of checking your Canada visa status online can sometimes lead to encountering specific challenges. Here are some strategies to help you navigate these challenges:

1. Incorrect information: Mistakes in entering your application details can lead to errors. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your application.

2. Technical glitches on the website: Sometimes, the website may have technical issues. Trying different browsers or devices or contacting the site's support can help resolve this.

3. Extended processing times: Visa applications may take longer due to high volumes or other factors. Patience is key; you can contact the relevant authorities for necessary updates.

4. Visa application rejections: In case of a visa rejection, contacting the embassy or consulate is crucial for understanding the reasons and exploring reapplication options.

Diverse Canada Visa Categories

Canada's diverse and welcoming nature extends to its visa policies, offering various options to accommodate travelers' unique needs worldwide.

• Visitor Visa: The Canada Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa, is ideal for temporarily exploring Canada. Whether for tourism, business meetings, or family visits, this visa caters to your travel needs for a limited period.

• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): The Canada eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It's electronically linked to the traveler's passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

• Study Permit: Aspiring students worldwide can pursue their educational goals in Canada with a study permit. This document is crucial for those enrolled in Canadian educational institutions and is typically accompanied by a visitor visa or an eTA.

• Work Permit: This permit allows foreign nationals to work in Canada. There are two types: an open work permit and an employer-specific work permit. The specific requirements depend on the type of work and the applicant's circumstances.

• Super Visa: This is a long-term visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for up to two years without the need to renew their status.

• Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Canada en route to other destinations, the transit visa is a practical necessity for stays under 48 hours. It ensures a smooth transition through Canadian airports.

Legal insights: Understanding the rights and responsibilities of visa holders in Canada

As a holder of a Canadian visa, you have certain rights and responsibilities that are essential to understand for a harmonious life in Canada.

Rights of visa holders in Canada

• Equality and freedom: Canada prides itself on gender equality and freedom of thought, belief, opinion, and expression. Regardless of gender, you have the right to be treated fairly and equally in all aspects of life, including employment and education. You're also entitled to hold and express your thoughts and beliefs without fear of censorship and persecution and the freedom to practice your religion.

• Mobility rights: As a visa holder, you can move freely within Canada, live and work in any province or territory, and enter and leave the country freely.

• Freedom of association: You can join social, cultural, or professional groups, helping you build social networks and contribute to Canada's community fabric.

• Labor rights: The Employment Equity Act and Canada Labor Code protect various workers' rights, including fair treatment in employment, workplace safety, and compliance with employment standards.

Responsibilities of visa holders in Canada

• Obeying Canada's laws: You must adhere to all Canadian laws, regulations, and rules, including traffic and property laws.

• Participating in the democratic process: While only Canadian citizens can vote, understanding and respecting the country's democratic processes is vital.

• Contributing to the community: Volunteering and local initiatives are encouraged to strengthen community bonds.

• Appreciating Canada's heritage and environment: Engaging with Canada's rich heritage and environment enriches your experience and contributes to preserving the country's unique identity.

Importance of regular visa status checks

Here's why keeping tabs on your visa status matters:

1. Staying on the right side of the law: Regularly checking your visa status ensures that you always comply with Canadian immigration laws. This helps avoid situations where you might inadvertently overstay your visa, which can lead to legal complications.

2. Keeping up with changes: Immigration policies can sometimes change rapidly. Regular visa status checks can inform you about any new rules or requirements that might affect your stay in Canada.

3. Planning ahead: Knowing the exact dates of your visa's validity helps you plan your stay, travel, or any necessary visa extensions. This foresight can be crucial, especially if you need to make timely decisions about work, study, or family matters.

4. Avoiding disruptions: Regarding issues with your visa, regular checks allow you to identify and address them promptly. This can prevent disruptions to your plans, such as travel or work in Canada.

5. Peace of mind: Regularly checking your visa status provides peace of mind. Knowing that everything is in order with your visa lets you focus on enjoying your time in Canada, whether you're there for work, study, or leisure.

Dealing with visa expiry, renewals, and overstays

Dealing with Canada visa expiry, renewals, and overstays involves understanding the various procedures.

• Visa expiry: If your visa is about to expire and you wish to extend your stay, you should apply for a visitor record online at least 30 days before your status expires. This process requires creating an online account, uploading necessary documents, and paying the applicable fees.

• Visa renewal: If your visa has expired and you must leave and return to Canada, apply for a new one.

• Overstaying: If you overstay your visa, you may become inadmissible, leading to denial of future visa applications or removal from Canada. If you have overstayed and your status has expired, you might be eligible to apply to restore it within 90 days.

Check your Canada visa status: Need more information?

If you have any questions about checking your Canada Visa status, please contact our customer service team, who are ready to assist you, or email us at [email protected].