Canada has officially launched the Canada digital visa pilot program, introducing a major shift in how visitor visas may be issued in the future. Starting November 27, 2025, certain Moroccan nationals approved for visitor visas can receive both a digital visa and a traditional counterfoil. This marks a significant movement toward faster, more secure, and more convenient immigration processes.

Why Canada Is Testing Digital Visas

Travelers often face delays due to passport submission, mailing requirements, and long processing steps. Digital visas aim to reduce these hassles by giving applicants an electronic visa they can access without surrendering their passport.

This limited pilot test allows IRCC to gather real feedback from participants. The information collected will help refine digital visas so the program can expand safely and efficiently in the future.

Key goals of the pilot include:

• Improving security and verification
• Reducing the need for passport submission
• Strengthening compatibility with airlines and international partners
• Increasing efficiency and lowering delivery costs

What the Canada Digital Visa Pilot Program Offers

Simple, Faster, and More Secure Travel

Digital visas reduce the steps required to finalize travel documents. Instead of mailing a passport, eligible applicants will receive their digital visa electronically, along with the physical visa in their passport.

Digital visas are expected to:

• Speed up travel preparations
• Reduce risks linked to mailing documents
• Improve information security
• Allow travelers to share only the data needed for verification

These improvements support IRCC’s broader initiative to modernize immigration services for smoother travel experiences.

How the Canada Digital Visa Pilot Program Works

Who is Eligible?

For now, only a small group of Moroccan citizens approved for visitor visas may receive the option of a dual-format visa. Eligibility is by invitation only.

What Will IRCC Be Testing?

To improve future rollouts, IRCC will examine:

• User experience and accessibility
• Reliability of verification tools
• Airline compatibility and scanning systems
• Privacy and data protection standards
• Security measures aligned with international norms

A clear focus of the Canada digital visa pilot program is ensuring digital documents follow Canadian and global privacy rules. The pilot meets all federal security requirements to keep users safe.

Digital Visas and Canada’s Long-Term Plans

IRCC’s modernization strategy aims to reduce administrative pressure, improve client services, and strengthen Canada’s travel system. Digital visas could eventually become a standard option if the pilot demonstrates strong performance.

This move aligns with global trends where digital travel documents are becoming more common. Countries worldwide are looking to shift from paper-based systems to secure digital formats that support efficient travel.

What Applicants Should Know

Before the pilot expands, here are a few important points:

• The test is limited to specific Moroccan nationals.
• Both digital and physical visas will be issued during this trial.
• The digital version is optional for selected participants.
• Some Moroccan citizens may qualify for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead of a visa.

If successful, this pilot could change how millions of future travelers receive Canadian visas.

The Canada digital visa pilot program marks a significant step toward a modern, technology-driven immigration system. As IRCC tests this new approach with a small group of applicants, the results will help shape future travel document delivery and create a more secure, efficient experience for newcomers and visitors. If you plan to apply for a Canadian visa and want expert support on your options, reach out to ImmigCanada today for trusted guidance.