Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced new guidelines for processing family class permanent residence interviews.

The updated procedures address situations where applicants living in Canada cannot attend overseas visa office interviews.

Officers now have the authority to evaluate whether concerns can be addressed remotely from Canada or require an in-person meeting at the visa office abroad.

The changes, effective January 16, 2026, apply to both family class and spouse or common-law partner in Canada applications, giving officers flexibility in determining the most appropriate interview format based on individual circumstances.

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