IRCC Backlog Sees Progress Amid Reduced Immigration Targets

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is making strides in reducing its application backlog. By November 30, 2024, the backlog had decreased to 1,006,500 applications, a 4.7% drop from the 1,056,100 recorded on October 31, 2024. This progress reflects IRCC's ongoing efforts to improve efficiency amidst significant policy changes.

Total Application Numbers Show Decline

In addition to the backlog reduction, IRCC’s total inventory of applications dropped from 2,406,000 at the end of October to 2,267,700 by the end of November. However, the number of applications processed within service standards also decreased, from 1,261,200 to a lower count.

Understanding the Backlog

An application is considered part of the backlog if it exceeds IRCC’s established processing timelines, which vary by application type. IRCC aims to process 80% of applications within these service standards, leaving a manageable 20% in the backlog for more complex cases. However, surges in application volume or complexities can disrupt these benchmarks.

Permanent Residence Backlog Trends

As of November 30:

• Permanent Residence Applications:
• Total inventory: 828,600
• Backlog: 318,000 (up from 311,100 in October).
  
  

Key Programs:

• Express Entry: Backlog slightly reduced to 18% from 19% in October, but fell short of the 20% target for processing within six months.
• Express Entry-aligned Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Backlog dropped to 24%, down from 25%.
• Family Sponsorship (Spouses, Partners, and Children): Backlog decreased to 14%, below the 15% target.

Temporary Residence Applications

Temporary residence applications showed significant delays:

• Total Applications: 1,212,000
• Backlog: 649,400 (54%)
• Visitor Visas: 75% in backlog, the highest recorded since IRCC began tracking in this format in January 2022.
• Study Permits: 36% in backlog.
• Work Permits: 51% in backlog.

The number of temporary residence applications processed within service standards dropped from 644,900 in October to 562,600 in November.

Citizenship Applications Maintain Low Backlog

Citizenship applications remain a bright spot in IRCC’s inventory:

• Total Citizenship Applications: 227,100
• Backlog: 39,100 (17%), consistent with October.

IRCC’s Strategies to Reduce Backlogs

The progress in reducing backlogs comes amidst new measures to align immigration levels with capacity. Key steps include:

1. Lower Immigration Targets:
   The Immigration Levels Plan 2025-2027 announced lower targets for permanent residents and new guidelines for temporary residents, easing the pressure on IRCC’s processing system.
2. Pause on Family Sponsorship for Parents and Grandparents:
   The government will not accept new applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025, prioritizing clearing applications from 2024.
3. Technology and Analytics:
   IRCC has implemented advanced analytics and automated tools to fast-track spousal and partner sponsorship applications.
4. Focus on Essential Workers:
   Priority is given to applications from workers in critical occupations.

Looking Ahead

These measures highlight IRCC’s commitment to balancing operational efficiency with fair processing. While the backlog has shrunk, ongoing adjustments to immigration policies and targets will play a crucial role in maintaining progress and improving the experience for applicants.