Canada opened a new visa application centre (VAC) in Lisbon, Portugal, on February 26, 2024, to improve processing efficiency and client service for visa applications. The VAC network is managed by private companies that have contracts with the Government of Canada. Their primary role is to accept documents required in the visa application process, securely transmit them to IRCC offices, and provide biometric collection services.
VAC service agents are available by phone, email, or in-person to answer questions in local languages and to help make sure that applications are complete. With the opening of the Lisbon VAC, applicants in Portugal will no longer need to travel outside of the country, which helps reduce costs as well as distance and travel time and improve client service. Non-Portuguese citizens living in Portugal who need a visa to come to Canada can also access services at the Lisbon VAC. Applicants can make an appointment as of February 12, 2024.
Canada Visa Application Process and Services
Canada’s visa application process and services are critical to the country’s long-term success. Newcomers and visitors fuel the economy and add vibrancy to communities. As Canada continues to receive high volumes of visa applications from around the world, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is committed to improving processing efficiency and client service. This includes expanding the international presence when needed.
Visa Application Centres (VACs)
Visa application centres (VACs) are private companies that have formal contracts with the Government of Canada. They securely send the passport to the visa office, accept documents required in the visa application process, and provide biometric collection services. VAC service agents are available by phone, email, or in-person to answer questions in local languages and to help make sure that applications are complete. VACs are not involved in making decisions on files nor are they authorized to provide applicants with advice about their visas or permits.
IRCC began opening VACs in the mid-2000s. The first one opened in India, followed by one in China. With the opening of the Lisbon VAC, IRCC’s VAC network will consist of 163 locations in 110 countries around the world.
Canada Visa for Portuguese Citizens
Portuguese passport holders are required to obtain a Canada Electronic Travel Authority (Canada eTA) even for a short duration of 1 day up to 90 days. By pre-screening travelers before they arrive in the country, Canadian authorities can identify potential risks and ensure the safety of their borders. The Canada Visa for Portuguese citizens comprises an online application form that can be completed in as little as five (5) minutes. Applicants must enter information on their passport page, personal details, their contact details, email and address, and employment details. Applicant must be in good health and should not have a criminal history.
Canada Visa for Portuguese citizens can be applied for online on this website and can receive the Canada Visa Online by email. The process is extremely simplified for the Portuguese citizens. The only requirement is to have an Email ID and a Credit or Debit card. After paying the fees, printing or presenting documents at the airport is unnecessary since the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport and remains valid for a specific period, allowing them to enter Canada multiple times.
Canada-Portugal Relations
Canada and Portugal enjoy strong bilateral relations and celebrated 70 years of formal diplomatic relations in 2022. According to the 2021 Census, roughly 448,000 people of Portuguese origin live in Canada. The people-to-people ties between Canada and Portugal have grown stronger over time, and today these ties are underpinned by a vibrant Canadian community of Portuguese origin.
IRCC remains committed to making it easier than ever for Portuguese citizens to travel to Canada. The opening of a new visa application center in Lisbon will offer them greater flexibility and accessibility to visit, study, or work in Canada, and open the door to new opportunities for social, economic, and cultural exchange that will benefit both countries.
Conclusion
Canada’s visa application process and services are critical to the country’s long-term success. The opening of a new visa application center in Lisbon, Portugal, will improve processing efficiency and client service for visa applications. Visa application centres (VACs) are private companies that have formal contracts with the Government of Canada.
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