How to Submit a Passport for Canada Visa in the Philippines

In a rush to get your visa application approved? Here's a spoiler: you must submit your passport to a Visa Application Center (VAC) after you've received the official request. But don't stop here. The real story lies in the details — how you handle this step can impact the timing of your visa approval and overall experience.

Passport Submission: Key Steps

You've completed your online visa application for Canada, you've checked your emails obsessively, and finally, that golden request for your passport has arrived. What now? Here's what you need to do:

• 1. Receive a Passport Request Letter: After you've submitted your visa application and gone through the biometrics process, you'll receive a "Passport Request Letter" from the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This is your signal that your visa processing has reached its final stage.

  Pro Tip: Make sure to check your junk or spam folder in your email because, sometimes, these important letters end up there.

• 2. Print Your Passport Request Letter: The letter will provide essential information on where to submit your passport, the timeline for submission, and any additional documents you might need. It's a good idea to print out at least two copies — one for the Visa Application Center (VAC) and one for your personal records.

• 3. Choose Your Submission Method: In the Philippines, you have two main options for submitting your passport:

  • Option A: In-Person Submission at the Visa Application Center (VAC): There are several VACs in the Philippines where you can submit your passport. The most popular ones are in Manila and Cebu.
  • Option B: Courier Submission: If you're far from a VAC, you can also send your passport via a trusted courier service. Be sure to use the instructions provided by IRCC for courier submission.

In-Person Tip: Arrive early if you plan to submit your passport in person. VACs can have long lines, especially during peak visa application seasons.

• 4. Pay the Passport Transmission Fee: There’s a fee involved for transmitting your passport to the Canadian embassy. You can pay this fee online or at the VAC. Make sure to keep the receipt as you’ll need it during the submission process.

  Fee Type	Amount (PHP)
  Passport Transmission Fee (VAC)	595
  Courier Fee (optional)	Varies by location

• 5. Submit the Required Documents: When you go to the VAC or use the courier service, make sure to bring (or include) the following:

  • Your passport
  • A printed copy of the Passport Request Letter
  • A completed VFS consent form (downloadable from the VFS Global website)
  • Your payment receipt for the passport transmission fee.

  Pro Tip: Double-check all the documents before submission to avoid any unnecessary delays. The VAC won't process incomplete applications.

• 6. Wait for the Process to Complete: After you’ve submitted your passport, it's time to wait for the visa to be processed and returned. You can track your passport’s status through the VFS tracking system. You'll receive notifications via email or SMS when your passport is ready for pickup or delivery.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Many applicants face delays or complications simply because they overlook small but essential details. Here are a few things to be mindful of:

• Missing Documents: Always ensure you’ve included all the necessary forms and letters in your submission packet. Forgetting one piece of documentation can result in delays.

• Late Submissions: The Passport Request Letter will indicate a deadline for submission. Missing this deadline can seriously affect your visa processing time and even result in the refusal of your visa application.

• Incorrect Fees: If the transmission fee is not paid, or if it’s paid incorrectly, your application won't be processed. Always check that the amount and payment method align with the VAC's guidelines.

• Courier Mishaps: If you choose to submit via courier, make sure to use a reliable service. A lost passport can severely delay your visa approval.

Tracking and Collecting Your Passport

After submission, you can monitor the status of your passport through the VFS Global website. You’ll need to enter your tracking number, which will be given to you when you submit your passport. Once the visa is issued, you can collect your passport from the VAC or receive it via courier (if you chose that option).

Tip: If you’re traveling soon after receiving your visa, make sure to notify the VAC in advance for faster processing. While this isn’t always guaranteed, it may help expedite the process.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, you can visit:

• VFS Global Website: VFS Global
• IRCC Official Website: Canada Immigration

Conclusion: Submitting your passport for a Canadian visa in the Philippines is straightforward as long as you follow the proper steps and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re submitting in person or via courier, ensure that your documents are complete, your fees are paid, and you meet the submission deadlines. If you manage these small but crucial details, you’ll be on your way to getting your Canadian visa in no time.