Understanding the Wait Time for Canadian Tourist Visa After Biometrics

Applying for a Canadian tourist visa can be a time-consuming process, and delays are not uncommon. If you have recently provided your biometrics and have not received a decision yet, you are not alone. This article will guide you through the process, explain typical wait times, and offer advice on what to do if you are still waiting.

Your Application After Biometrics

It is unusual, but delays in updating biometrics can indeed occur. Since your application now shows that the biometric process is complete, your case should move forward. Typically, after submitting biometrics, you might receive a decision within a few weeks. However, various factors can cause delays, including the volume of applications, the time of year, or additional background checks.

At present, you have been waiting for 22 days. This is still within the typical waiting period, and it is important not to rush to contact Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unless you do not hear back in the next week or so. You can check the status of your application online through the IRCC website or contact their support for updates.

Processing Time by Nationality

The processing time for a Canadian tourist visa can vary significantly depending on your nationality. If you have not specified your nationality, it becomes challenging to provide an accurate estimate. The IRCC website provides detailed information on processing times by nationality, which you can consult to get a more precise understanding of your expected wait time.

Typical Wait Times Explained

The standard turnaround time for a tourist visa decision is approximately 4–6 weeks. However, processing times can extend beyond this, especially during peak seasons or when the system is overwhelmed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, applicants encountered significant delays, with some waiting up to 8 months for a decision. Despite this, processing times have generally returned to more typical levels.

Given that you have waited for more than the standard turnaround time, it is reasonable to wait a bit longer. However, if your travel plans are imminent, you may want to contact IRCC to expedite the process. Here are some ways you can do this:

Contacting IRCC

IRCC Contact Form: Fill out the contact form online at the IRCC Contact Form. IRCC Phone Numbers: For calls from outside Canada, long-distance charges may apply. Visit IRCC Contact Numbers for more details. Visa Application Centre (VAC): If you are applying through a VAC, you can find contact details specific to the VAC handling your application on the VFS Global website at VFS Global - Canada Visa Information.

Using these resources, you can update your application status and provide any additional information that may be required. Remember, while delays may be frustrating, patience is often the best course of action.

Conclusion

Waiting for a Canadian tourist visa decision after providing biometrics can be a stressful experience. However, by understanding typical processing times and how to contact IRCC for updates, you can better navigate this process. If you have any further questions or need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the relevant departments.

Best of luck with your visa application.