COVID-19: Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) and Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTAs)

IMPACT – HIGH

The Canadian government has issued instructions regarding the processing of Temporary Resident Visas and Electronic Travel Authorizations.

Key Points:

Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs):

• Applicants may continue to apply online only.
• Applications will only be processed if the applicant is traveling for a non-discretionary/non-optional purpose and meets one of the exemption criteria.
• Applications submitted prior to travel restrictions must be updated to confirm that the conditions are met in order for processing to continue.

Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTAs):

• Applicants may continue to submit eTA applications online.
• Any applications requiring manual officer review will be paused unless the applicants provide proof that they are traveling for a non-discretionary/non-optional purpose and they meet one of the exemption criteria.
• Instructions on how to provide the documentary proof can be found here.

Analysis & Comments: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

This alert was prepared by de Lint LLP, an independent immigration law firm, allied with Deloitte LLP in Canada.