Questions and Answers
The Visa and Immigration Section of the Canadian Consulate General in São Paulo strives to provide the public/clients with efficient, quality service. In line with that premise, the Consulate General has adopted new technology and visa application procedures to ensure that the high-quality service standards are met in spite of increasing volume in application intake. Below is a list of frequently asked questions regarding the changes to visa application submissions.
How do I submit a visa application without having to go to the Consulate in person?
70% of visa applicants in Brazil apply for a Canadian non-immigrant visa without the need to come in person to the visa section in Sao Paulo. The quickest and easiest way to submit a temporary resident visa application in São Paulo is via the services of a travel agency or third party courier. Applications cannot be received by mail.
How do I find an agent to submit an application on my behalf?
You can ask at the travel agency where you are enquiring about Canada, or you can search on the internet (try using key words in Portuguese like “vistos consulares”, “despachantes consulares”, etc.). Please note that the decision to use the services of a travel agency is at your discretion. No particular agent can or will receive any preferential treatment, therefore any third party can be used.
What if I want to come in person?
Using an agent to submit a visa application is voluntary. You are welcome to submit an application in person if you wish. If you choose to apply in person, the following procedures apply effective May 16, 2005:
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You must first call (+55 11) 5509-4343 to set up an appointment, Monday to Thursday, from 08:00 am to 12:30 pm, and from 01:30 pm to 05:00 pm local time, and on Friday from 08:00 am to 01:30 pm, except on holidays. Please note that the appointment queue may be long. |
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You come to the office from 09:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Monday to Thursday, on the day of your appointment, bringing along a fully documented application. For information on what’s required to make a temporary resident visa application, click here. |
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People who have not called to set up an appointment to make an application will not be able to submit their application. |
How long does it take for a walk-in and agent-submitted application to be completed?
It takes 2 business days for both walk-in and agent-submitted applications. For example, if your application is received on Monday, from 09:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., the passport would be available to be picked up on Wednesday, from 03:00 p.m. to 04:00 p.m, in most cases. Additional time may be required if the immigration officer requires additional information/documentation, further checks, medical examinations, etc.
Will I need an interview?
Interviews for temporary visit, studies, or work in Canada can, at the discretion of this office, be conducted when you apply or over the telephone. Please be advised that submitting your application in person will not give you the right to an interview, or any other advantage over applications submitted through travel agents or third party couriers. Decision to interview a person is based on a case by case basis. You will be advised should an interview be required.
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