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One of the most commonly asked questions many prospective immigrants to Canada pose to themselves is how long it will take Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to process their application submissions.
The intricate landscape of IRCC processing times is essential for anyone seeking immigration, Canadian visas, or citizenship in Canada. Understanding the intricacies of these processing times can mean the difference between a smooth application journey and prolonged delays.
We explore the ins and outs of IRCC processing times, including factors influencing duration and strategies for minimizing delays.
What Are IRCC Application Processing Times?
IRCC application processing times are the average duration it takes the IRCC to process immigration and permit applications to Canada. Every type of Canadian visa or permit has a different processing time, which can vary depending on the type of application when you submit it and other factors.
The IRCC processing times can range from a few days to several months. Knowing the estimated Canada visa processing time for your application can help you plan your move to Canada and provide peace of mind that your application is being processed. These IRCC processing times are only estimates, and there are no guarantees that IRCC will process your application within that time frame.
Updates in IRCCs Application Processing Times
The following presents the latest developments and changes in IRCCs’ application processing times to ensure a smooth and efficient immigration journey.
Express Entry System
The average Canada visa processing time for an Express Entry application is six months. This is the time it takes for the IRCC to review and assess your application. However, the actual processing time may vary depending on which Express entry program you've chosen, the complexity of your application, and the number of applications received.
The three Express Entry programs have different processing times. They are as follows:
| Express Entry Program | IRCC Application Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Federal Skilled Workers Program (FSWP) | 6 Months |
| Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) | Undetermined (Not Enough Data) |
| Canada Experience Class (CEC) | 5 Months |
Find out which Express Entry program is best for you.
Canadian Citizenship Certificate
The Citizenship application process allows foreign nationals to become Canadian citizens. This allows you many rights as a Canadian, like voting in elections and holding public office. A Canadian citizenship application has multiple processing times, including multiple elements that the IRCC must process separately. The Canadian citizenship application processing times are as follows:
| Citizenship | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Citizenship Grant | 15 Months |
| Proof of Citizenship certificate | 8 Months |
| Resumption of Citizenship | Undetermined (Not Enough Data) |
| Renunciation of Citizenship | 14 Months |
| Search of Citizenship Records | 13 Months |
| Adoption |
|
Learn more about Canada’s citizenship certificate.
Permanent Residency (PR) Cards
For individuals applying for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) cards, understanding the processing times is crucial for planning their immigration journey. IRCC's application processing times for PR cards can vary based on factors such as the completeness of the application and the volume of applications received.
Keeping track of these processing times ensures applicants are prepared for potential delays and can take necessary steps to expedite their applications. PR Cards IRCC application processing times can be outlined as follows:
| Permanent Residency (PR) Cards | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Replacing or Renewing PR Card | 59 Days |
| First-Time PR Card Applicants | 35 Days |
Find out more about the Canadian PR Card.
Family Sponsorship
Canada’s family sponsorship programs that allow Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and registered Indians to sponsor certain relatives to come to Canada and become permanent residents. The Family Sponsorship IRCC application processing times depend on your relationship with your sponsor and proximity to Canada. They are as follows:
| Family Sponsorship | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Spouse or Common Law Partner living in Canada (Outside Quebec) | 9 Months |
| Spouse or Common Law Partner living in Canada (Inside Quebec) | 26 Months |
| Spouse, Common Law, or Conjugal Partner living outside Canada (Outside Quebec) | 12 Months |
| Spouse, Common Law, or Conjugal Partner living outside Canada (Inside Quebec) | 34 Months |
| Dependent Child | Depends on where the child live |
| Parents or Grandparents (Outside Quebec) | 24 Months |
| Parents or Grandparents (Inside Quebec) | 50 Months |
| Adopted Child or Other Relatives | Depends where other relatives live |
Learn how to apply for Canada’s Family Sponsorship.
International Experience Canada (Working Holiday Visa)
An International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday allows young people between 18 and 35 from designated countries to travel and work in Canada for up to two years and change jobs anytime. The IEC Working Holiday Visa application processing times can be outlined as follows:
| International Experience Canada (Working Holiday Visa) | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Last Season | 57 Weeks |
| Current Season | 3 Weeks |
Learn more about the Working Holiday Visa.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Each province and territory has its criteria for selecting applicants. As a result, the processing time for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) application varies depending on the province or territory, but here are the general processing times for a PNP.
| PNP Application Types | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online via Express Entry | 7 months |
| Non-Express Entry PNP | 13 months |
Find out more how the Provincial Nominee Program works.
Canadian Visitor Visas
The Canadian Visitor Visa, also known as the Tourist Visa, allows foreign nationals to travel to Canada for a limited period. The IRCC application processing times for Canada's visitor visa.
| Visitor Visa Application Types | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Outside Canada | Depends on the country you're applying from |
| Inside Canada | 14 Days |
Find out more about Canada’s Visitor Visa.
Canada Super Visas
If you want to bring your parents or grandparents or grandparents to Canada temporarily to visit, the Canadian Super Visa is the best immigration pathway for you. Application processing times for the Super Visa will vary according to the country of origin from which the submission was made.
Learn more about Canada’s Super Visa.
Canadian Work Permits
A Canadian work permit allows foreign nationals to work in Canada for a limited period. IRCC application processing times are as follows:
| Work Permits Application Types | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Outside Canada | Depends on the country you're applying from |
| Inside Canada (including extensions) | 101 Days |
Find out more about Canada's work permits.
Study Permits
The Canadian Study Permit allows international students to study in Canada for a limited period. Canadian Study Permit IRCC application processing times are outlined below.
| Study Permits Application Types | IRCC Canada Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Outside Canada | 9 Weeks |
| Inside Canada | 5 Weeks |
| Study Permit Extension | 75 Days |
Learn how to get a Canada study permit.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program allows foreign nationals to enter Canada for a limited period. The processing time for an eTA application is usually 5 minutes.
Note that certain eTA applications may require more time to be processed. In such cases, you will be informed via email within 72 hours of your next steps.
Learn more about Canada’s eTA.
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)
The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) allows employers to hire temporary foreign workers (TFW) when Canadians and permanent residents are not available. Understanding the processing times associated with SAWP applications is essential for employers and workers. The IRCC application processing time for the SAWP is 20 days.
Find out more about Canada’s SAWP.
Please Note
The SAWP IRCC application processing times don't account for the time it takes to send an application between a visa application center and the IRCCs office and the time you need to submit your biometrics.
What Factors Affect IRCC Processing Times?
The processing times for Canadian immigration applications can be affected by various factor. The specific factors that can affect processing times include:
- The type of application submitted,
- The completeness of the application,
- The method of application submission (online or paper-based),
- The specific circumstances of the applicant, such as changes to the family structure or unforeseen issues, and
- The capacity and challenges faced by the processing office which can vary based on the region or country.
How Can I Speed My IRCC Application Processing Times
You can do a few things to help speed up the processing time for your application.
Submit a Complete and Accurate Application
This will reduce the chances of your application being delayed or rejected due to errors or omissions.
Include all Documents and Forms
This will help reduce delays in processing your application. Third, ensure you know any additional requirements or documents you may need to provide.
Follow up Regularly with IRCC
This will help ensure your application is processed on time.
Consult a Professional
No one knows how to get through the Canadian visa and immigration processes easier or faster than a Certified immigration expert like a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
FAQs
How Long Does it Take to Get My Canadian Visa After Biometrics?
How long it takes to get a visa after biometrics depends on the type of application and other factors. The Canada visa processing time can range from a few days to several months.
Learn more about how long it takes to get a visa after biometrics.
How Can I Check The Status of My Application?
The process for checking the status of your application may vary depending on the type of application and the country. In some cases, you can check the status of your application online through a tracking system.
Why Do Some Application Processing Times Change And Others Do Not?
The processing time for an application may change due to various factors such as the volume of applications received, the complexity of the application, and the availability of resources. Some applications may have a more predictable processing time than others due to their simplicity or priority status.
What Are the Processing Fees for Canadian Immigration Programs?
Each program has different fees and has different application processes. Here's a full breakdown of the Canadian immigration and visa processing fees.
