New Canada visa application centre for UAE residents opens in Dubai

VFS Global, as part of a contract awarded by the Government of Canada, introduced Canada Visa Application Centre (CVAC) services in Dubai for applicants wishing to travel to Canada. As per the contract, VFS Global will establish a robust worldwide network of up to 125 CVACs. This centre is the second such centre in the UAE. Canada Visa Application Services have also been introduced in Oman earlier in March.

The CVAC commenced operation at Wafi Mall in Dubai last March 19.

This global network of CVACs will provide increased access and enhanced administrative services to applicants through a consistent service delivery approach, which will also support biometrics implementation.

“This new Visa Application Centre in Dubai will offer another service option to travellers in the UAE, in addition to our VAC in Abu Dhabi” stated Emmanuel Kamarianakis, Canada’s Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates. “Canada’s partnership with VFS Global complements the excellent visa services already offered nationally online through e-applications.”

Mr Ajit Alexander, Chief Operating Officer, VFS Global added, “It is our privilege to extend our network of services to the Government of Canada in UAE. With the Canada Visa Application Centre in Dubai we work towards making the process convenient and accessible. VFS Global is committed to delivering a world class service and customer experience”.

The CVAC will provide exclusive service for the Government of Canada, and is authorised to accept applications in all temporary resident categories (visitor visas, study and work permits) and travel document applications from Canadian permanent residents in UAE.

The CVAC is authorised to provide administrative support services, such as the collection of visa applications, and return of passports in sealed decision envelopes to applicants. The CVAC can also assist in scheduling interviews on behalf of the Canadian visa office.

The decision to issue or refuse a visa is made solely by immigration officers of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), in accordance with Canada’s immigration visa rules and guidelines. The CVAC has no role or influence over the outcome of an application and will not offer any evaluative advice.

The use of CVACs is voluntary. Such service may also be obtained directly from CIC, by using CIC’s Online Application (E-Apps) system.

With the new facility offered by the CVAC, applicants can benefit from a host of facilities and additional services such as:

 

-Conveniently located and easily accessible visa application centres

-Longer operating hours allowing applicants to visit at a time of their convenience

-Convenient and spacious waiting areas with modern facilities

-Professional and responsive staff dedicated to handle visa queries and applications

-Dedicated website for easy access to information including visa types, requirements and check-list, applicable fees and application status

-Dedicated call centres and email support to answer queries and status of application

Tracking of application status

-Secure handling of passports, documents and personal information