In the past, Canada was seen as a haven for refugees from conflict-torn countries in Eastern Europe. Canada saw the potential of these people and offered them refuge. But now, both Latvia and Bulgaria have been added to a list of “countries of concern” by Canada’s Immigration Minister Ahmed Hussen. This new list would make it more difficult for these citizens to come to Canada, as they would face stricter entrance requirements and a higher degree of scrutiny before being allowed entry into the country.
Why did the Canadian Government make these changes?
The Canadian government made these changes to its visa requirements for Latvian and Bulgarian citizens in an effort to strengthen the security of Canada’s borders and protect the country’s economic interests. The new rules require applicants from these countries to have a valid passport, proof of residence in Canada for the past six months, and a confirmed booking on a flight to Canada. Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be required to obtain a visa prior to travel. CANADA VISA FOR LATVIAN CITIZENS
How was Canada able to do this?
When Canada announced their new visa requirements for Latvian and Bulgarian citizens effective October 1, 2016, they had a number of interesting methods at their disposal. For Latvia, Canada has reinstated the temporary visitor visa which was in place between 2001-2013. This means that Latvians who are visiting Canada for tourism or business purposes will need to obtain a visa at a Canadian embassy or consulate in their home country. For Bulgarians, Canada has implemented a new points-based system which requires applicants to score at least 600 points in order to be eligible for a visa. This includes having a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and a clean criminal record.
Both countries have been struggling with illegal immigration for some time now, and are looking to tighten up their borders as much as possible. From a Canadian perspective, this new policy is designed to screen out potential criminals and terrorists before they enter the country. It’s also hoped that this will improve relations between Canada and both Latvia and Bulgaria, two European countries that are key allies in the fight against ISIS.
What are the Visa requirements now?
Canada has recently announced new visa requirements for Latvian and Bulgarian citizens. Latvian nationals require a valid passport and a visa to enter Canada, while Bulgarian nationals require a valid passport and an invitation letter from a Canadian resident. The new requirements go into effect on September 1, 2017. CANADA VISA FOR BULGARIAN CITIZENS
The invitation letter must be signed by the individual who is inviting the Bulgarian national to come to Canada and must include information about the visitor’s purpose for visiting Canada, such as work or study. The letter must also state that the visitor is not a threat to public safety or security and will not be staying in Canada for an extended period of time.
To apply for a visa, Latvian nationals must complete an online application form and submit it along with their passport and visa fee. Applicants can also contact the Canadian Embassy in Latvia to find out more information about applying for a visa.
Bulgarian nationals can apply for a visa through the Canadian Embassy in Sofia or one of the authorized Canadian Visa Application Centres around the world. Applicants will need to provide their passport, visa application form, two photographs, and payment of the visa fee. The fee varies depending on the country of residence but is typically around $160 USD
The Impact of these visa changes
As of September 1, 2017, Canada has updated their visa requirements for Latvian and Bulgarian citizens. These changes will have a significant impact on those who wish to travel to Canada.
Latvian citizens are required to have a valid passport and visa in order to enter Canada. They must also have a return ticket and be able to demonstrate that they will not become a public charge while in Canada. Bulgarians must have a valid passport and visa as well as proof that they will not become a public charge while in Canada.
These new regulations are likely due to the increase in refugees and immigrants coming into Canada recently. The government is hoping that these changes will help to ensure that only bona fide travellers enter the country and that those who are not eligible do not stay long term.
Conclusion
Latvian and Bulgarian citizens are now required to obtain a visa in order to enter Canada. This change comes as part of the new Cross-Border Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union, which came into effect on July 1st. Latvians and Bulgarians will need to apply for a visa at a Canadian embassy or consulate, and it is estimated that the process will take around two weeks. Please be aware that this requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, who are still exempt from needing a visa to enter Canada.