At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian government closed Canada's Visa Application Centres (VACs) around the world. As some countries regain control over the spread of the virus, some VACs are reopening with limited service.

In the case of India, after months of closures and uncertainty, the VAC centres have officially announced that they will begin gradually reopening services, starting November 20.

Limited biometric appointments will start in Delhi, Chandigarh, Jalandhar, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bengaluru. In the first stage of the reopening, applicants who fit within Family Class, or Study Permit principal applicants will be able to make appointments. Applicants who have received a unique Biometric Instructions Letter (BIL) issued by IRCC will receive additional instructions via email on how to schedule their biometric appointment.

It is important to note that VACs will not be permitting any walk-in appointments at this time. All appointments must be confirmed in advance. They aim to make more appointments available each week as they phase in the service.

Travel restrictions are still in place in Canada. Applicants are advised to confirm whether they are exempt from these restrictions prior to making travel plans.

Some VACs in other countries are also open for limited services. To find out if the VAC centre near you is open, and what types of appointments are being made at the moment, you can refer to the official government website with the complete list  here.

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