Are you planning to move to Canada and wondering about the visa stamping process? The process and timeline for visa stamping at an IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) office can be crucial for your plans. Understanding how long does it take for visa stamping in IRCC office? IRCC processing times can help you prepare better and avoid any last-minute hassles. With key IRCC policy updates in 2026, including revised biometrics protocols and updated processing benchmarks, let’s dive into the details to ensure you are well-informed and ready for your journey.

Temporary Resident Visas

Canada offers several temporary resident visas that cater to different needs, such as visiting, studying, or working. Each visa type has its own processing time and requirements.

Visitor Visa: A visitor visa allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months. If you wish to extend your stay, you must apply for a visitor record at least 30 days before your visa expires.

Processing Time: Approximately 20 days. This may vary depending on your country of application.

TRV Passport Stamping Processing Time in Canada

Once your Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is approved, the passport stamping process typically takes an additional 5–10 business days. In 2026, IRCC streamlined the TRV stamping process at several VAC (Visa Application Centre) locations, reducing wait times for applicants in select countries. Always check the IRCC website for the most current timelines specific to your country of application.

Temporary Work Visa

Temporary work visas let you work in Canada for a specific period. Various work permits fall under this category, including LMIA-based, LMIA-exempt, and open work permits.

Processing Time: Around 60 days. As of 2026, IRCC has introduced updated LMIA-exempt categories under the International Mobility Program. Processing times can change without prior notice.

Study Permit

A study permit is essential for international students wanting to study at Canadian institutions. It also allows students to work part-time to support their living expenses.

Processing Time: Typically, 50 days. This can vary by country.

Permanent Resident Visas

If you’re looking to settle in Canada permanently, several immigration pathways can lead you to permanent resident status. Each program has its own set of requirements and processing times.

Express Entry System

The Express Entry System manages applications for three economic immigration programs: FSWP (Foreign Skilled Worker Program), FSTP (Foreign Skilled Trade Program), and CEC (Canadian Experience Class).

Processing Time: Approximately 10 to 12 months. In 2026, IRCC resumed category-based selection draws targeting healthcare workers, STEM professionals, French-language speakers, and trades workers. Candidates with lower CRS scores may still qualify through these targeted draws.

Struggling With a Low CRS Score? Here’s What You Can Do

A low CRS score doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your Express Entry journey. In 2026, category-based draws have opened meaningful pathways for candidates who may not rank highly in general draws. Working with an experienced Express Entry consultant for low CRS score situations can help you identify the right draw category, maximize your profile points, and explore Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) options that could add 600 points to your score instantly. If you need Canada Express Entry application help, consulting a regulated professional early can make all the difference.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The PNP allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on their specific needs.

Processing Time: 12 to 14 months via the enhanced stream, and 18 to 24 months via the base stream.

Quebec Immigration

Quebec has its own immigration selection process. Applicants must obtain a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) before applying to the federal government.

Processing Time: Around 15 to 20 months.

Family Sponsorship

This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their eligible family members for PR.

Processing Time: Approximately 12 months.

Canadian Citizenship

Permanent residents who have lived in Canada for three out of the last five years can apply for Canadian citizenship.

Processing Time: About 22 months after application submission. In 2026, IRCC has been gradually reducing citizenship processing backlogs; check the IRCC portal for updated estimates.

Understanding the Visa Stamping Process

Once you receive a passport submission request for visa stamping, the actual visa stamping process at an IRCC office typically takes 2 to 3 weeks. However, this timeframe can vary based on the office’s workload and your specific circumstances.

Canada Passport Stamping Processing Time After Biometrics

A common question we receive at ImmigCanada is: How long does IRCC take to return a passport after stamping? Once biometrics are submitted and your visa is approved, you can generally expect your passport back within 2–4 weeks, though this varies by IRCC office location and application volumes. In 2026, some applicants in high-volume cities have reported slightly longer waits of up to 5 weeks during peak seasons. Tracking your passport via the IRCC secure portal or the VAC courier portal is the most reliable way to monitor status.

FAQs – How Long Does It Take for Visa Stamping in the IRCC Office?

Whether you’re applying for a temporary resident visa or aiming for permanent residency, understanding the processing times and requirements will help you navigate the process smoothly. As Canada continues to update its immigration policies in 2026, staying informed with the help of professional Canada immigration consultancy services is more important than ever. If you need further assistance, ImmigCanada is here to guide you every step of the way.