Planning a trip to Canada involves more than just booking flights and hotels. One of the most common concerns is how long it takes for a Canadian visitor visa to be processed. This guide outlines the average processing time, factors that influence delays, and steps you can take to avoid them. It also explains how to track your application, how biometrics affect processing, and what to do in urgent situations.

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Processing Time for Canada Visa

The processing time for a Canadian tourist visa ranges between 18 to 400 calendar days! The actual timeline depends on several variables, including the volume of applications, seasonal demand, the accuracy of your documents, whether your case requires further review, and most importantly, your home country.

Below is a country-wise breakdown of the current visitor visa processing times, visa types, and chances of delay, based on the latest data from IRCC and global visa trends as of mid-2025.

India

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: ~24 days

• Chances of delay: Low to moderate; high volume but efficient system

United States

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: ~20 days

• Chances of delay: Low; well-integrated processing

United Kingdom

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: ~31 days

• Chances of delay: Low to moderate; stable but may face minor backlogs

Nigeria

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: ~85 days

• Chances of delay: High; high scrutiny and backlog history

Australia

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa or eTA

• Processing time: Minutes (eTA); Visitor Visa not officially listed

• Chances of delay: Very low for eTA; visa delay unknown

Pakistan

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: ~25 to 30 days

• Chances of delay: Moderate; depends on document clarity

New Zealand

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa or eTA

• Processing time: Minutes (eTA); visa not listed

• Chances of delay: Very low if using eTA

United Arab Emirates

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: ~80 to 320 days

• Chances of delay: Very high; major backlog reported

Brazil

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: Not officially listed; estimated ~60 to 120 days

• Chances of delay: Moderate; depends on visa office load

Germany

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: ~383 days (via Vienna office)

• Chances of delay: Very high; severe backlog in processing centre

South Africa

• Type of visa: Visitor Visa

• Processing time: Estimated ~60 to 150 days

• Chances of delay: High; regional visa office delays are common

Applicants from India, the U.S., and Pakistan generally experience faster visitor visa approvals due to well-equipped local visa offices, streamlined processing systems, and established biometric infrastructure. These countries handle a high volume of applications efficiently, allowing IRCC to maintain relatively short processing times. On the other hand, applicants from Nigeria, the UAE, and Germany often face delays. In Nigeria, high refusal rates and stricter scrutiny of documents contribute to longer timelines. The UAE sees heavy visa traffic, not only from its residents but also from third-country nationals applying from within the region, leading to processing overload. Germany’s applications are typically routed through the Vienna visa office, which is known for its severe backlog and limited capacity. These country-specific operational challenges significantly impact how quickly a visitor visa is processed.

How We Calculated This Processing Time

Canada visitor visa processing times vary based on where you apply from, your biometric status, and the seasonal workload at visa offices. The timelines provided are based on IRCC’s latest estimates as of mid-2025 and real-world data from recent applicants across various countries. On average, countries like India, the U.S., and Pakistan see faster processing (20–30 days), while Nigeria, the UAE, and Germany experience extended timelines due to regional backlogs and operational constraints.

When to Apply?

To reduce the risk of delays, applicants should submit their visa application at least two to three months before their intended travel date. Early submission ensures there is enough time for biometric appointments, background checks, and possible requests for additional documents. Submitting your application well in advance also allows you to adjust your travel plans if processing takes longer than expected.

Role of Biometrics in the Process

Biometrics play a significant role in the overall timeline. Once you submit your application, you will receive a biometric instruction letter. Your application will only be forwarded for processing after you complete your biometrics at a designated collection center. Delays in scheduling or attending the biometric appointment can hold up your entire application. If you have already given biometrics in the past ten years, you may be exempt, but this needs to be confirmed during the application process.

You can track your application through the Atlys platform, which provides real-time updates, biometric reminders, and decision alerts. Once a decision is made, you’ll get a passport tracking number from your regional visa office, which you can use to monitor delivery status.

How To Avoid Visa Delays

Delays in visa processing are common, but mostly avoidable with a well-prepared and early application.

1. When to Apply

To stay on the safe side, apply at least 2–3 months before your travel date. This gives you enough time for:

• Scheduling biometrics

• Completing background verification

• Responding to document requests

• Adjusting travel plans if delays occur

2. Role of Biometrics in Processing

Your application is processed only after biometrics are completed. Once IRCC issues the biometric instruction letter:

• Schedule your appointment immediately at a visa office

• If you’ve submitted biometrics in the last 10 years, check for exemptions

• Delayed or missed appointments will push your entire timeline

3. How to Track Your Application

You can track your Canada visa application through:

• IRCC portal for application updates

• Atlys app for real-time notifications, document status, and reminders

• Tracking ID provided once your passport is dispatched after the decision

4. How to Apply for Urgent Processing

There’s no fast-track option for Canadian tourist visas. However, in genuine emergencies, you can request urgent processing.

Valid Reasons for Urgent Requests include:

• Medical emergencies

• Death or critical illness of a close family member

• Urgent business or diplomatic travel

Note: Approval is not guaranteed. Requests are reviewed case by case.

Common Reasons for Visa Delays

1. Incomplete or Poor-Quality Documents

• Missing information

• Blurry scans

• No certified translations

• Wrong formats

2. Delayed Biometrics

Applications don’t move forward without completed biometrics.

3. Seasonal Backlogs

Travel peaks during summer, holidays, and school vacations. Apply early to avoid getting caught in volume-related delays.

4. Weak Proof of Funds or Return Ties

To improve chances of approval:

• Include bank statements, salary slips, ITRs

• Add property papers, employer letters, or dependent details

5. Background Checks and Verifications

Applications may be flagged for:

• Complex travel history

• Matching names with watchlists

• Additional document verification

This may involve other departments and take several weeks.

Checklist for a Smooth Application

• Apply 2–3 months early

• Upload clear and complete documents

• Add a detailed cover letter

• Include travel itinerary, bookings, and accommodation proof

• Show adequate funds with income and tax documents

• Demonstrate strong ties to home country

• Schedule biometrics immediately

• Monitor your IRCC account regularly

Once your application is submitted and biometrics are completed, there is little you can do to speed up the process. However, you should keep checking your account for any updates or additional document requests. If you are contacted for an interview or further clarification, respond promptly to avoid further delays. Make sure to avoid booking any non-refundable travel until you receive your visa. While some applicants get decisions within two to three weeks, others may have to wait significantly longer. In case of genuine emergencies, there are channels to request urgent processing, though approval is not guaranteed. The best approach is to prepare well, apply early, and follow all guidelines carefully. A strong and complete application significantly increases your chances of timely approval, helping you make the most of your visit to Canada.