Canada Faces Slow Visa Processing As 2026 World Cup Approaches

Canada’s visa processing is slowing just months ahead of its 2026 FIFA World Cup matches, sparking worries over possible travel disruptions.

According to the Economic Times on Tuesday, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the body in charge of visas and permits, is struggling to manage a surge in applications amid a reduced workforce.

Reports suggest that the agency has reduced its workforce by roughly 20 per cent, intensifying the pressure on its visa processing capacity.

The slowdowns are occurring as Canada gets ready to host 13 matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June.

The World Cup is anticipated to attract millions of visitors, with total international travel to host cities expected to surpass 20 million people.

Stakeholders have warned that extended delays in visitor visa processing could disrupt plans for tourists, temporary workers, media crews, and business travelers intending to attend the international tournament.

In response to the situation, the Canada Border Services Agency stated that it is collaborating with government partners and host cities to handle the anticipated surge of visitors.

“To address the expected large volume of travelers, the CBSA collaborates in advance with all event authorities regarding the admissibility requirements for travelers and goods entering Canada. The CBSA is working closely with its Government of Canada partners, including the Department of Canadian Heritage (Sport Canada), Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, and Global Affairs Canada, as well as the host cities and FIFA, in the safety and security planning for this international event. We are also collaborating with border security partners in the United States and Mexico to coordinate our respective operational approaches,” the Border Services Agency said.