Changes to IRCC services offered in Havana, Cuba

Ottawa, May 8, 2019 – Effective immediately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has reduced its programs and services in Havana, Cuba, in accordance with staffing reductions announced in January 2019.

Services affected

The following services will no longer be offered at the embassy in Havana:

• visitor visas (temporary resident visas)
• study and work permits
• permanent residence interviews

You can find the most up-to-date information on how to apply for various immigration, visa and citizenship programs online.

Services still available

The Embassy of Canada to Cuba will continue to accept all Canadian passport, proof of citizenship (citizenship certificate) and permanent resident travel document applications.

You can continue to apply for permanent residence under economic and family class programs by following existing application instructions.

Other ways to apply

If you’re applying for a visitor visa, work permit or study permit, we recommend you apply through your online account. You can also submit a paper application at any visa application centre outside of Cuba.

Biometrics

If you need to give your biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of your application, you will need to travel to a visa application centre outside Cuba.

Active applications

All open/active applications have been transferred to IRCC’s visa office in Mexico City, Mexico. You will be hearing directly from the Mexico City office in the near future on the next steps required for your application.

Any case-specific questions about your existing application can be directed to IRCC’s visa office in Mexico City.

For all other questions, please contact IRCC through our existing service channels.