Ottawa, May 31, 2024—Enhanced Convenience for Mexican Travelers to Canada
Canada is making it easier for Mexican nationals to travel by opening three new visa application centres (VACs) in Mexico. These centres, located in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara, will start operating at the end of May, initially providing biometric collection services. This expansion aims to better serve applicants who wish to visit Canada, fostering stronger travel and cultural ties between the two countries.
New VACs to Provide Essential Biometric Services
The new VACs in Mexico will begin by offering biometric collection services. Biometric data, which includes fingerprints and a photo, is a critical part of the visa application process. Collecting biometrics helps verify the identity of applicants and maintains the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
Over time, the range of services at these new centres will expand to include transmitting and tracking passports and other documents. For now, applicants can continue to access the full suite of services at the existing VAC in Mexico City. This phased approach ensures that applicants receive the best possible service during the transition period.
Increased Accessibility Across Major Metropolitan Areas
With the addition of these three new centres, Mexico will have a total of four VACs, strategically located in the country’s largest metropolitan areas. This increased accessibility will make it significantly easier for Mexican nationals to provide their biometrics, a requirement for many visa applications. The existing and new centres are designed to support the growing demand for travel to Canada and streamline the application process for residents across Mexico.
How to Use the New VACs
Applicants can make appointments to submit their biometrics at any of the four VAC locations once they receive their biometric instruction letter. This letter is an essential step in the application process, guiding applicants on when and where to provide their biometric information. For more detailed information on the process, applicants are encouraged to visit the official biometrics page of the Government of Canada.
VAC Operations and Services
VACs in Mexico are managed by private companies under contracts with the Government of Canada. While these centres provide critical services, it’s important to note that they do not represent the Canadian government and do not have the authority to make decisions on visa applications. Additionally, they cannot offer visa-related advice. Their primary function is to facilitate the collection and transmission of biometric data and documents, ensuring that applicants can complete this necessary step in their visa application process efficiently.
Strengthening Canada-Mexico Relations
The opening of these new VACs underscores Canada’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Mexico. By making the visa application process more accessible, Canada is encouraging more travel and exchanges between the two nations. This initiative not only supports tourism and business travel but also enhances cultural and people-to-people connections, fostering greater mutual understanding and collaboration.
For Mexican nationals planning to visit Canada, these new centres will provide a more convenient and efficient means of fulfilling visa application requirements. As Canada continues to enhance its immigration services, applicants can look forward to a smoother, more streamlined process.
For more information on biometric requirements and to book an appointment, please visit the official biometrics page.