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Canada has recently announced its latest initiative to streamline the immigration process in Portugal. The opening of a new visa center in Lisbon on February 26, 2024, marks the first one in the country. The new visa center is a convenient hub for individuals relocating to Canada.
The center aims to simplify the visa application process by providing comprehensive assistance and guidance, making it more accessible and efficient. This development underscores Canada's commitment to fostering international partnerships and facilitating global mobility.
Let’s look at how Canada's latest initiative of opening a visa center in Portugal aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency for visa applicants while fostering closer relations between the two countries!
New Canadian Visa Centre Opened in Portugal
The new Canadian Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Portugal, which officially opens on February 26, 2024, in Lisbon, aims to streamline the visa application process for Portuguese citizens and residents seeking to visit, study, or work in Canada.
VACs are administered by private companies with contractual agreements with the Canadian government. VACs accept documents required in the visa application process, send them to Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offices, and provide biometric collection services. You can get in touch with VAC service agents by phone, email, or in-person to receive answers in your local languages and ensure your applications are complete.
Services Provided by New Canadian Visa Centre in Portugal
The VAC's services include accepting and processing applications for all temporary resident visas, including visitor visas, student visas, work permits, and travel documents for Canadian permanent residents.
VACs also collect biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs required for visa applications, provide general information about Canadian visas and immigration programs, assist applicants with completing application forms, and ensure all required documentation is submitted. Other significant VAC services you can look forward to receiving at Canada’s new VAC center include:
- Provide text message updates on your visa application,
- Receive visa application fee payments,
- Provide return passports and decision envelopes using courier services, and
- Receive permanent resident travel document applications.
How Can I Use The New VAC in Portugal?
The following are the steps you should follow if you want to use the new VAC in Portugal.
Step 1: Create an Account
Head to the VAC website: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/prt/en/can. Click "Register Now" and fill out the form with your details. Activate your account using the confirmation email sent to your registered address.
Step 2: Choose the Type of Visa
Once logged in, navigate to "Apply for a Visa" and select "Canada." Choose the visa type that best aligns with your purpose of travel (e.g., Visitor visa, Student visa, Work permit). Each visa type has specific requirements and eligibility criteria, so ensure you choose the right one.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
Click "Book an Appointment" and select your preferred date and time slot to submit your application and biometrics. Appointments are subject to availability, so plan to secure your desired date and time. You can reschedule or cancel your appointment through the website if needed.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee
After scheduling your appointment, you'll be prompted to pay the visa application fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee varies depending on the visa type and your age. Fee payment confirmation is crucial for proceeding with your application.
Learn more about Canadian immigration Processing Fees.
Gather the Required Documents
Each visa type has a specific list of required documents. You can find the complete list on the VAC website or IRCC website. Common documents include a passport, travel documents, proof of financial support, and photographs. Ensure all documents are in the required format and translated into English or French.
Learn more about how to prepare your documents.
Benefits of Using The New Canadian Visa Centre in Portugal
Here are some advantages of utilizing the newly inaugurated Canadian Visa Centre in Portugal for seamless immigration services to Canada.
For Portuguese Citizens And Residents
For Portuguese citizens and residents, the benefits of using the new Canadian Visa Centre include:
Increased Convenience And Accessibility
Before the VAC, submitting visa applications necessitated venturing outside Portugal, incurring additional expenses and time constraints. The Lisbon Center eliminates this hurdle, offering a local, accessible option for submitting applications and biometrics. This removes the geographical barrier, allowing individuals to pursue their Canadian aspirations effortlessly and conveniently.
Potential For Faster Processing Times
The dedicated center in Portugal aims to streamline visa processing workflows, potentially leading to faster turnaround times for applicants. This is particularly beneficial for those seeking visas for time-sensitive purposes, such as attending conferences or enrolling in academic programs. The reduced processing time translates to quicker access to Canadian opportunities, allowing individuals to capitalize on them without delay.
Learn more about the IRCC’s processing times.
Opportunity for Longer Stays and Deeper Connections
While Portuguese citizens enjoy visa-exempt travel to Canada for up to six months, the VAC facilitates applications for longer stays, opening doors to deeper connections and experiences. This could involve pursuing studies, gaining valuable work experience, or even establishing a long-term residency in Canada. The VAC acts as a bridge, enabling individuals to forge lasting bonds with Canada and contribute to its dynamic society.
For Non-Citizens Living in Portugal
Non-citizens living in Portugal can benefit from the new Canadian Visa Centre via:
Simplified Visa Application Process
The VAC simplifies the visa application process for non-citizens residing in Portugal. The center provides a user-friendly platform for accessing information, completing forms, and scheduling appointments. This eliminates the confusion and uncertainty often associated with navigating complex visa procedures, making the journey to Canada more manageable.
Learn more about the Visa Application Process to Move to Canada.
Streamlined Documentation and Biometrics Collection
The VAC streamlines the documentation and biometrics collection process. On-site staff assist in ensuring all necessary documents are present and complete, and biometrics can be conveniently collected at the center itself. This eliminates the need for multiple visits to different locations, simplifying the process and saving valuable time.
Potential for Increased Opportunities
Obtaining a Canadian visa unlocks many possibilities for non-citizens in Portugal. This could involve securing employment opportunities, pursuing higher education, or even establishing businesses in Canada. The VAC is a gateway to these diverse opportunities, empowering individuals to explore new horizons and fulfill their professional and personal aspirations.
Additional Benefits for Portuguese Citizens and Non-Citizens Living in Portugal
Both types of applicants can receive the following benefits should they use the new VAC center in Lisbon. This includes:
Improved Customer Service
The VAC boasts a dedicated team of professionals trained to provide exceptional customer service. They offer guidance, answer questions, and ensure a smooth application experience. This personalized support enhances the overall experience and fosters a sense of trust and transparency throughout the process.
Enhanced Security
The VAC prioritizes security, employing rigorous protocols to protect all submitted documents and personal information. This ensures peace of mind for applicants, knowing their data is handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.
Find out more about security questions in Canada.
Strengthened Bilateral Ties
The opening of the VAC reinforces the strong relationship between Canada and Portugal. This centralized facility facilitates cross-cultural exchange, fostering deeper collaboration and understanding between the two nations. It serves as a testament to their commitment to fostering connections on individual and societal levels.
How Can You Immigrate to Canada From Portugal?
While the new VAC in Portugal streamlines the visa application process, it's important to understand that it doesn't directly facilitate immigration to Canada. Instead, it serves as a convenient way to submit your application and biometrics; the actual decision on your immigration eligibility and application rests with IRCC.
Here's a comprehensive guide on how you can immigrate to Canada from Portugal.
FAQs
Can I Get Help With My Application From The VAC Staff?
Visa Application Center staff can provide general information and guidance. Still, they cannot offer legal advice or complete your application.
What Are The Processing Times For Visa Applications at The New Visa Centre?
Processing times for visa applications at the new Visa Centre vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. Still, applicants can expect efficient and timely processing under the streamlined procedures.
Can I Track The Status of My Visa Application Processed at The New Visa Centre in Portugal?
Yes, applicants can easily track the status of their visa application processed at the new Visa Centre in Portugal through the online tracking system provided on the center's website, ensuring transparency and peace of mind throughout the process.
