These program delivery instructions are aligned with the ministerial instructions (MIs) that are in effect from February 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021. Under the current MIs, all applications for a temporary resident visa (including a transit visa), a work permit or a study permit submitted by foreign nationals who are outside Canada at the time of the application must be submitted using electronic means (in other words, applicants must apply online).

However, applicants who, because of a disability, are unable to submit an application using electronic means will continue to be exempt from the requirement to submit their application online. In addition, the following 2 groups of temporary residence applicants who are applying from outside Canada are exempt from the requirement to submit an application online.

Applications will continue to be prioritized for those who are eligible to travel based on the current travel restrictions; this includes both new applications and applications that are currently in progress. TRV application fees still apply.