Average Processing Times
In order to benefit from extended business hours and on-site client service, and to minimize delays caused by incomplete documentation, we recommend that applicants for temporary residence (visitors, passengers in transit, students and workers) submit applications at the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Temporary Residence Applications:
Temporary resident applications submitted directly to the visa office at the Embassy of Canada must be presented at the reception window during reception hour. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their visa applications at least 4 - 6 weeks in advance of their planned travel date.
Reception hour: Wednesdays ONLY
9:00 to 11:00
Service limited to 30 clients
Visa Application Center: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
EACH applicant for a Temporary Resident Visa must complete the required forms. This applies to all applicants, including minor children.
- Temporary Resident Visa (includes tourists, business visitors, family visits and transit passengers):
Visa applications will require a minimum of 15 working days to process.
- Study Permit, Temporary Work Permit and Permanent Resident Travel Document (for permanent resident returning to Canada):
These applications will require a minimum of 15 working days to process.
* Note: These are average processing times only. Some applications take longer to process for various reasons. For example, the following factors could delay the processing of your application:
- a medical exam is required (additional 2-4 weeks from the date of the medical exam if no complications arise, such as the need for further testing);
- background or security checks required;
- criminal record;
- interview required;
- verification of documents needed; or
- other factors that complicate your case.
Applications are dealt with in the order in which they are received.
In all cases, when your application is accepted for processing you will be advised when to come back to the Embassy to pick-up the decision.
Pick up after finalization
In order for you to pick up the decision, and your passport and other documents, you must present:
- One piece of government-issued ID containing your photograph (e.g., your RUT card)
In order for a third party (family member, travel agent, co-worker, etc.) to pick up the decision, and your passport and other documents, the third party must present:
- A simple authorization (poder simple) specifically naming the third party and providing their RUT, with your original signature and the date;
- A photocopy of your RUT Card ; AND
- A photocopy of the third party's RUT card.
Permanent Residence Applications:
For more detailed information on processing times for all other categories of applications at Canadian visa sections, including the Santiago, Chile visa section, please see the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website.
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