The Waiting Game: Understanding Canada Tourist Visa Processing Times

The Waiting Game: Understanding Canada Tourist Visa Processing Times

Canada Visa Guide 2026

I Submitted My Canada Tourist Visa Application... Now What?

A complete timeline of the process, from "Submit" to "Passport Request."

Hitting the "Submit" button on your Canada Visitor Visa application feels like a huge relief. But immediately after, the waiting game begins. You probably have questions: How long will it take? How do I track it? What is a Biometric Letter?

At Smile Foreign Education, we believe in keeping you informed. Here is the step-by-step journey your application takes inside the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) system.

Step 1: The Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)

Within 24 to 48 hours of submitting your application, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) in your account.

Action Required: You must use this letter to book an appointment at VFS Global to give your fingerprints and photo. Your visa processing time does not start until you complete this step.

*If you have given biometrics for Canada in the last 10 years, you may be exempt.

Step 2: Eligibility & Background Check

Once VFS sends your fingerprints to the embassy, the "real" work begins. An immigration officer reviews your file. They are looking for three main things:

  • Strong Ties: Do you have a job, family, or assets in India that ensure you will return?
  • Finances: Can you afford the trip?
  • Purpose: Is your travel plan logical and genuine?

⏳ Current Processing Time (2026)

For applicants from India, the current estimated time is:

35 to 55 Days

Note: This is an average. Simple cases may take 20 days, while complex cases can take up to 90+ days. Timelines update weekly on the official IRCC website.

Step 3: The Final Decision

You will receive an email notification saying "Your application has an update." This is the moment of truth. You will see one of two letters:

✅ Original Passport Request (PPR)

Congratulations! This letter means your visa is Approved. You must now submit your physical passport to VFS Global for stamping.

❌ Refusal Letter

This means the visa was denied. The letter will list standard reasons (e.g., "I am not satisfied you will leave Canada...").

Step 4: Submission & Stamping

If approved, we will help you submit your passport to VFS.

Timeline for Stamping: Once submitted, it typically takes 7 to 10 working days for the passport to travel from the VFS Centre -> Canada High Commission -> Back to VFS -> Your Home.

⚠️ Why is my application delayed?

  • Background Checks: If your name matches a security watch list (even by mistake), security screening takes extra time.
  • Additional Documents: Occasionally, IRCC may ask for more proof of funds or a medical exam (for older applicants).
  • Peak Season: Applying right before summer or Christmas always results in slower processing.

Worried About Your Status?

At Smile Foreign Education, we track our clients' applications daily. If you need help with a new application or understanding a refusal, contact us.

Smile Foreign Education

Ahmedabad, Gujarat