Good news for those waiting on their Canadian immigration applications! Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has significantly reduced the backlog of pending applications.
Fewer Applications in the Backlog
As of December 31, 2024, the backlog dropped to 942,300 applications. This is a big improvement from the 1,006,500 applications at the end of November—a 6.38% decrease in just one month!
This is the first time since June 2024 that the backlog has gone below one million applications.
What is a Backlog?
A backlog happens when IRCC takes longer than their promised processing time for applications. The standard processing times vary based on the type of application:
- Express Entry: 6 months
- Family Sponsorship: 12 months
If an application is delayed beyond these timelines, it becomes part of the backlog.
Current Immigration Backlog Situation
Permanent Residence Applications
- IRCC has 836,900 permanent residence applications in total.
- 59% are being processed on time, while 344,700 applications are delayed.
- Express Entry applications: Only 18% are delayed, which is a good sign since IRCC aims to process 80% within six months.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): 25% of applications are in the backlog, slightly higher than last month.
- Family Sponsorship Applications: 15% backlog, matching IRCC’s expected level.
Temporary Resident Applications (Work, Study, and Visitor Visas)
- There are 1,050,800 applications for temporary residency.
- Only 47% are processed on time, leaving 557,000 applications in backlog.
- Visitor Visas (TRVs): 75% of applications are delayed (expected was 61%).
- Study Permits: Backlog increased to 43%, much higher than the expected 26%.
- Work Permits: Backlog rose to 57%, exceeding the expected 40%.
Citizenship Applications
- The backlog for citizenship applications remains low.
- Out of 232,300 applications, 83% are being processed on time.
- Only 17% are in backlog, making it one of the best-performing categories.
How is IRCC Reducing the Backlog?
IRCC is making several changes to speed up processing and reduce delays:
- Lower Immigration Targets: The new Immigration Levels Plan 2025-27 has reduced the number of people allowed to move to Canada, which helps IRCC catch up on pending applications.
- Job Cuts: IRCC is planning to reduce 3,300 jobs over the next three years, which could impact processing times. However, the department says this is necessary due to the lower immigration targets.
- Suspension of Parent & Grandparent Sponsorship: IRCC has paused new applications for sponsoring parents and grandparents in 2025 to focus on clearing the backlog.
- Faster Processing for Some Applications: Priority is given to:
- Workers in essential jobs
- Spousal sponsorship applications (using advanced analytics and automated technology)
What This Means for You
If you’re waiting for your application, these changes could mean faster processing times, especially for Express Entry and family sponsorship applications. However, study and work permits may still face delays.
Stay updated with Ask Kubeir for the latest immigration news and expert guidance on your Canadian journey!
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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.