Understanding IRCC’s Criteria for Issuing Single vs. Multiple-Entry Visas to Canada

Canada’s immigration policies have evolved, and multiple-entry visas are no longer the standard for visitors. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued updated guidance, introducing stricter criteria for granting multiple-entry visas. Ultimately, IRCC officers decide which visa type—single or multiple-entry—suits each applicant. This article explores the factors they consider during the decision-making process.

Visa Requirements for Canada

Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Canada as visitors, workers, or students, which is typically stamped on their passport. Nationals from certain countries may instead apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which is easier to obtain than a visa. Some travelers, like U.S. citizens and U.S. green card holders, don’t need a visa or an eTA to enter Canada.

Single-Entry vs. Multiple-Entry Visa

A multiple-entry visa allows holders to enter and exit Canada as needed within the visa’s validity, which may last up to 10 years or until the expiration of the applicant’s passport, travel document, or biometrics.

In contrast, a single-entry visa permits just one entry into Canada and is generally valid only for the specified visit purpose. Re-entry on a single-entry visa requires a new visa application.

Factors Influencing Visa Decisions

IRCC officers consider several aspects when deciding between single and multiple-entry visas, including the applicant’s purpose of visit, financial resources, health needs, and additional factors. Here’s a breakdown of the considerations:

Determining Visa Validity Period

For multiple-entry visas, the period of validity may be shorter than the maximum allowed. Officers consider the following additional factors when setting a visa’s validity:

• Purpose of Visit: For example, a short-term business visit may warrant a shorter validity period.
• Applicant’s Status in Home Country: Officers assess whether the applicant’s ties to their home country may change.
• Political or Economic Conditions in the Applicant’s Country: Changes in home country conditions could impact the applicant’s return ability.

What to Do If Your Visa Application Is Refused

A Canadian visa application may be denied if the officer is not convinced that the applicant will leave after their authorized stay, or if the applicant is inadmissible (e.g., due to health or criminal history). IRCC advises applicants against re-applying unless their circumstances have significantly changed, as a similar application will likely lead to another refusal.

Examples of meaningful changes include:

• Approval for criminal rehabilitation.
• Eligibility for deemed rehabilitation.
• A new temporary resident permit application despite prior inadmissibility.
• Changes in medical conditions affecting admissibility.

IRCC notes the reasons for refusals in the Global Case Management System (GCMS), which tracks decisions and documentation for each application.

By understanding the factors IRCC officers weigh, applicants can better navigate the visa process and potentially strengthen their applications for Canada.