AlQa'dah 11, 1432, Oct 9, 2011, SPA - The Canadian Embassy in the Kingdom has apologized for the recent delay in issuance of visas and the consequent negative impact on Saudi visa applicants. In a statement in this regard, the Embassy confirmed it is working hard to shorten the time required to complete the visas, noting that the time for completion of visas actually has shrunk as of last September and the embassy is seeking further reduction. The statement said that the Canadian government continues to take other steps to facilitate travel between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Canada, pointing out that in October 2011 the requirement of medical examinations for Saudi students on scholarships was abolished. The statement said, "While each request for a visa is treated according to its merits, the Canadian Embassy in Riyadh usually issues multiple entry visas valid for up to five years for Saudi citizens."