Information contained in this publication is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or opinion, nor is it a substitute for the professional judgment of an attorney.
As of July 14, 2009, Czech and Mexican nationals must possess a Temporary Resident Visa to visit Canada.
Over the past four years Canada has seen a large increase in refugee claims filed by nationals of both countries. Since 2005, Mexican nationals have accounted for 25% of all claims filed in Canada. The second largest group is Czech nationals who have filed over 3,000 claims since October 2007, a sharp increase compared to less than 5 in 2006.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada has experienced significant cost increases, processing delays, and has instituted the visa restrictions for Mexican and Czech nationals because it believes the volume of claims submitted undermines its ability to help individuals fleeing real persecution.
Now, in order to visit Canada, Mexican and Czech nationals must demonstrate to immigration officials that:
• Their visit to Canada is temporary
• They will not overstay their visa
• They have enough money to cover their stay
• They are in good health
• They do not have a criminal record, and
• They are not a security risk