Visiting Canada — Applying for a temporary resident visa outside Canada (IMM 5256)

What happens next?

Your application will be reviewed to ensure it has been completed correctly and contains all of the required documents for processing. After reviewing your application, an officer will decide if an interview is necessary. If so, you will be informed of the time and place.

If your application is refused, your passport and documents will be returned to you with an explanation of why your application was refused.

Note: If fraudulent documents are used, they will not be returned.

If your application is approved, your passport and documents will be returned to you with the requested visa.

When you arrive in Canada, the officer at the port of entry will determine whether you may enter Canada and how long you may stay. You must leave Canada on or before the date set by the officer or have your status extended by an officer in Canada. The stamp placed in your passport by a Canadian official is valid for six months unless otherwise amended by an officer.

If you move or change your address, telephone or fax number before your application has been processed, you must advise us of this new information by contacting the visa office where you submitted your application.

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