Canada uses a network of Visa Application Centres around the world, where each year, hundreds of thousands of people submit their applications and, if required, provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) to come to Canada.
Since 2000, VACs have helped provide administrative support to visa applicants before, during and after their application is assessed at a Canadian visa office.
Canada is expanding the network of Visa Application Centres over the next two years. By November 2019, there will be at least 149 VAC locations in 99 countries.
VACs are managed by third-party service providers. These companies are authorized to provide specific services to visa applicants under the terms of a formal contract with the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
VACs allow for a higher level of points of service in countries where there are few or no visa offices. VACs also ensure that visa applications are completed properly, reducing the number of incomplete applications that must be returned to the applicant.
Canada has one of the most extensive VAC networks in the world—more than 96% of applicants will be able to access a Visa Application Center in their country of residence by November 2019.
Quick facts
- As of November 17, 2017, there were 137 VACs in 95 countries.
- VACs offer extended hours of operation and more points of service that make it convenient and accessible for applicants to submit their application and provide their biometrics. VACs are the main service channel for biometrics collection abroad.
- By ensuring that applications are complete, VACs help avoid unnecessary delays or refusal due to incomplete applications.
- Under the terms of the new contract, the extended VAC network in Asia will open on November 2, 2018.
- Similarly, on November 2, 2019, the extended VAC network in Europe, Africa and the Middle East will begin opening.
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