Canada Halts Visa Processing for DRC, South Sudan, Uganda

Canada has implemented a suspension of visa and immigration permit processing for nationals of three African countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Sudan, and Uganda, effective from September 28, 2026. This directive was issued by the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration under the Minimizing the Risk of Exposure to Ebola Disease in Canada Order (Immigration Applications and Documents), utilizing authority from the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

The order took effect at 22:00 Eastern Daylight Time and will last for 60 days. It halts the finalization of several immigration documents, including permanent resident visas, temporary resident visas, electronic travel authorizations (eTAs), work permits, study permits, and temporary resident permits.

The order also suspends previously issued visas and permits for nationals of the affected countries. However, the minister has the discretion to exempt individuals on humanitarian or protection grounds and can amend the order before the 60-day period concludes.