If you’re planning to move to Canada or are already in the process, you’ve probably wondered: “How long will my application take?”
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regularly updates its processing times so you can get an idea of how long you might have to wait. But over the past year, some of these timelines have changed—some for the better, others not so much.
This guide breaks it all down for you in simple terms.
What Are IRCC Processing Times?
Processing time = How long IRCC usually takes to make a decision on your application.
- Online applications start counting from the day you submit.
- Paper applications start counting from the day IRCC receives them in their office.
- Processing times can go up or down based on:
- How many people are applying
- Staff availability
- Policy or rule changes
Permanent Residence Applications
Express Entry (CEC, FSWP, FSTP)
Programs:
- CEC – Canadian work experience
- FSWP – Skilled workers from outside Canada
- FSTP – Skilled tradespeople
Processing Time Changes:
| Program | Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| CEC | 5 months | 5 months |
| FSWP | 5 months | 5 months |
| FSTP | Not available | 6 months |
✅ No major changes in Express Entry processing times.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
You can apply either:
- With Express Entry
- Without Express Entry (base stream)
| Application Type | Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| With Express Entry | 5 months | 6 months |
| Without Express Entry | 20 months | 11 months |
⚠️ Big delays for non-Express Entry PNP applications.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Move to Atlantic Canada with a job offer.
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 11 months | 7 months |
📉 Processing time got longer over the year.
Spousal Sponsorship
Applies to:
- Spouse/Common-law partner in Canada (SCLPC)
- Family Class (from outside Canada)
| Type | Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| SCLPC – Outside Quebec | 29 months | 10 months |
| Family Class – Outside Quebec | 10 months | 10 months |
| SCLPC – In Quebec | 26 months | 28 months |
| Family Class – In Quebec | 36 months | 34 months |
⚠️ Huge delay in processing for SCLPC outside Quebec.
Temporary Residence Applications
Visitor Visas
Apply to visit Canada short-term.
From inside Canada:
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 23 days | 20 days |
From outside Canada (examples):
| Country | Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| India | 19 days | 44 days |
| Nigeria | 100 days | 177 days |
| USA | 19 days | 27 days |
| Pakistan | 27 days | 110 days |
| Philippines | 29 days | 21 days |
✅ Most countries saw faster processing now—except the Philippines.
Visitor Records (Extend stay inside Canada)
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 161 days | 88 days |
⏳ Takes much longer now to get a visitor record.
Work Permits
Inside Canada:
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 238 days | 101 days |
🛑 More than double the time needed now.
Outside Canada (examples):
| Country | Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| India | 15 weeks | 19 weeks |
| Nigeria | 12 weeks | 21 weeks |
| USA | 9 weeks | 15 weeks |
| Pakistan | 6 weeks | 31 weeks |
| Philippines | 6 weeks | 28 weeks |
✅ Faster processing now for all countries listed.
Study Permits
Inside Canada:
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 5 weeks | 14 weeks |
🎉 Much faster now!
Outside Canada (examples):
| Country | Time Now |
|---|---|
| India | 10 weeks |
| Nigeria | 5 weeks |
| USA | 5 weeks |
| Pakistan | 17 weeks |
| Philippines | 17 weeks |
Study Permit Extensions (Inside Canada):
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 55 days | 236 days |
📉 Major improvement in extension times.
Citizenship Applications
Citizenship Grants
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 10 months | 8 months |
🕐 Processing time has gone up slightly.
Citizenship Certificates (Proof of Citizenship)
| Time Now | June 2024 |
|---|---|
| 4 months | 3 months |
✅ Slightly longer, but still fairly quick.
❓ What’s the difference between “processing time” and “service standard”?
- Processing time is how long it usually takes for most people.
- Service standard is IRCC’s goal—to process 80% of applications within a certain time.
❓ Is there a way to speed up my application?
Not really. But submitting a complete application with all documents helps avoid delays.
❓ Why did my friend get their application processed faster?
Each application is different. Some are more complex, and IRCC handles them case-by-case.
❓ Can I check the status of my application online?
Yes! Use the IRCC online tool to track your application.
❓ What should I do if my processing time is way longer than average?
You can:
- Check your application status online
- Contact IRCC through web form
- Speak to a licensed immigration consultant
Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today!
📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services.
📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment”
📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services:
- (+𝟭) 𝟰𝟯𝟳-𝟳𝟳𝟳-𝟯𝟳𝟳𝟳 (Canada)
- +971 45 26 4646 (Dubai)
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.
CREDIT: CIC NEWS