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Canada working to simplify lengthy visa process – says Canadian High Commissioner
High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana and Ambassador to Suriname, Sebastien Sigouin
Kaieteur News – In response to ongoing concerns about the tedious and time-consuming process of acquiring a Canadian visa, High Commissioner of Canada to Guyana, Sebastien Sigouin, announced that efforts are underway to simplify the system.
Speaking during a cocktail reception celebrating the 158th Anniversary of Canada Day on Wednesday evening at his Bel Air Gardens, Georgetown residence, Sigouin acknowledged the issue directly. “We are a welcoming country… people like to visit us…there are over 20 million people visiting Canada every year. And yes, getting a visa takes time. I know, I hear a lot about it every day. I wish I could fix it, but believe me, we are working on it,” he stated during his keynote address.
The announcement follows a recent development for travellers, as Canadian airline Air Transat is set to begin flying directly between Guyana and Toronto twice a week. High Commissioner Sigouin also used the occasion to praise the strong and evolving relationship between Canada and Guyana, highlighting recent developments that signal deeper collaboration. “We recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Guyana’s Ministry of Finance that will create more commercial opportunities to support Guyana’s development. It will also pave the way for more collaboration and more prosperity,” he said.
He also noted that Canada has made significant investments in Guyana, contributing to job creation and providing a loan of $18 billion to support social services. Additionally, Canada has invested $2 billion through partnerships with organisations like UNICEF and the World University Service of Canada to advance key initiatives. These include early childhood development programs and efforts to protect Indigenous communities from sexual exploitation.
Looking ahead to Guyana’s general and regional elections on September 1, Sigouin stressed Canada’s support for democracy. “We’ll work with the Organisation of American States, the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, and the Centre for Local Democracy to make sure the elections are accessible, transparent, and fair, because a strong democracy builds a strong nation,” he said.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who also addressed attendees, echoed the High Commissioner’s sentiments, reaffirming the value of the bilateral relationship. “Our two countries have long enjoyed excellent relations, rooted in mutual respect and shared ideals. Canada’s contribution to Guyana’s development has been generous and enduring. They have partnered with us in improving our healthcare system,” the President stated.
The event saw attendance from several dignitaries, including U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot and Prime Minister Mark Phillips. Guests enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere with food, drinks, and a golf competition, with prizes awarded to participants. Canada Day will be officially observed on July 1.
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