Good news for those waiting on their immigration applications! Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has been making progress in reducing its backlog of applications. As of January 31, 2025, the backlog has dropped below one million for the second month in a row, showing a 5.33% improvement compared to December 2024.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What is an Immigration Backlog? A backlog happens when applications take longer to process than the expected time set by IRCC. Different types of applications have different processing timelines:
- Express Entry applications: 6 months
- Family Sponsorship applications: 12 months
If an application takes longer than this, it is considered part of the backlog.
How Much Has the Backlog Reduced? Here’s a look at how the backlog has improved over the last six months:
| Month | Immigration Backlog |
|---|---|
| August 2024 | 1,078,300 |
| September 2024 | 1,097,000 |
| October 2024 | 1,056,100 |
| November 2024 | 1,006,500 |
| December 2024 | 942,300 |
| January 2025 | 892,100 |
IRCC is also processing more applications overall. The total number of applications in its system decreased from 2,119,900 (December) to 2,076,600 (January).
How Are Different Application Types Affected?
✅ Permanent Resident (PR) Applications
- Total applications in process: 839,900
- Processed within standard time: 58% (483,500 applications)
- Backlog: 356,400 applications
- Express Entry backlog: Only 20% (which is good news!)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) backlog increased from 25% in December to 30% in January
- Family Sponsorship backlog remains stable at 15%
✅ Temporary Resident Applications (Work Permits, Study Permits, Visitor Visas)
- Total applications in process: 998,100
- Processed on time: 51% (504,400 applications)
- Backlog: 493,700 applications
- Visitor Visas have the biggest backlog (71%)
- Study Permit backlog rose to 45% (up from 43%)
- Work Permit backlog dropped significantly from 57% to 42% (a good sign!)
✅ Citizenship Applications
- Total applications: 238,600
- Processed within standard time: 82% (196,600 applications)
- Backlog: Only 18% (a very low percentage!)
What is IRCC Doing to Reduce the Backlog? The Canadian government has made some big changes to manage application processing better:
- Lowering Immigration Targets – Canada plans to slow down the number of new permanent residents over the next three years.
- Capping Applications – IRCC introduced limits on certain immigration programs:
- Study Permit Cap – Fewer study permits will be approved in 2025.
- Agri-Food Pilot Cap – This program has already reached its limit for the year.
- Cutting IRCC Staff – Around 3,300 jobs will be cut in the next three years, raising concerns about processing delays.
🔹 Does a smaller backlog mean my application will be processed faster?
Yes! If IRCC is processing applications more quickly, there is a better chance that your application will be completed within the expected timeframe.
🔹 Why is the backlog still high for visitor visas?
Visitor visas are seeing a high number of applications, and processing times have been slower than expected.
🔹 What if my application is in the backlog?
If your application is delayed beyond the normal processing time, it is considered part of the backlog. You can check your status on IRCC’s website.
🔹 Will job cuts at IRCC slow down processing?
Possibly. While IRCC says it is adjusting to lower immigration targets, fewer staff could mean slower processing times in the future.
Final Thoughts IRCC is working to reduce the immigration backlog, and the numbers are improving. While there are still delays in some areas (especially visitor visas and study permits), Express Entry and family sponsorship programs are doing better. If you are waiting for an application, stay updated and check IRCC’s official website for updates!
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.