COVID-19: How it is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services– IRCC offices and visa application centres

From Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Last updated: April 14, 2020

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Please check our website frequently to see if there have been changes in our services either for in-person service at offices in Canada or at VACs.

IRCC in-person offices in Canada

IRCC’s offices have cancelled all

IRCC temporary offices in Canada

Our temporary offices are closed until further notice.

Biometric collection service points

Service Canada locations and U.S. Application Support Centres (ASCs) have stopped collecting biometrics until further notice.

Visa Application Centres (VACs)

Most VACs have temporarily closed or are operating with limited hours and services. Check your VAC website before you go.

If your VAC is closed and you need to contact us urgently, use the Web form. Do not go to a visa office.

Until further notice

  • Book your appointment online or by contacting the VAC. You can’t book your appointment in-person at a VAC.
  • VACs will no longer provide in-person information services. Contact the VAC by phone, email or webchat with any questions.
  • Only applicants with biometrics appointments will be allowed to enter VACs.
    • Friends and family members will only be allowed to enter the VAC to assist an elderly applicant or an applicant with mobility challenges
  • You’ll have to submit or retrieve your passport by mail or courier
  • All staff and clients will maintain a safe 1m distance between each other

Apply online

VACs won’t accept or process paper applications for a visitor visa, study permit or work permit between April 9 and 29, 2020.

You must apply online.

Updates and related links

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