How IRCC Processing Times Have Changed in the Past Year: A Simple Guide

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regularly updates how long it takes to process immigration and visa applications. These updates help applicants understand what to expect after submitting their applications.

Some processing times are updated weekly, while others are updated monthly. These estimates can change based on several factors, such as the number of applications received, available staff, or changes in policies.

This blog breaks down how processing times have changed over the past year for different types of applications.

Permanent Residence Applications

Express Entry

The Express Entry system includes three main programs:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

Here is a comparison of current processing times and those from June 25, 2024:

Processing times under Express Entry have stayed mostly the same.

IRCC service standard: 6 months (180 days)

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

You can apply for permanent residence through PNP either via:

• Express Entry-aligned (enhanced)
• Non-Express Entry (base)

Here’s how the times have changed:

The biggest increase is in the base PNP stream, where processing times have nearly doubled.

IRCC service standards:

• 11 months for base stream
• 180 days for Express Entry stream
  
  

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

This program helps applicants settle in the Atlantic provinces with a job offer from a designated employer.

Applicants can also get a temporary work permit valid for two years while their PR application is processed.

Note: No specific service standard is published for AIP.

Spousal Sponsorship

Processing times vary based on:

• Whether you apply under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (SCLPC) or Family Class
• Whether you plan to live in Quebec or another province
  
  

The largest increase is for in-Canada class applicants planning to reside outside Quebec.

IRCC service standard: 12 months (for Family Class overseas)

Temporary Residence Applications

Visitor Visas

Processing times vary depending on where you apply from.

Inside Canada

Outside Canada

Processing times have dropped for all countries except the Philippines.

IRCC service standard: 14 days (for applications outside Canada)

Visitor Records

This is used to extend or change your status while inside Canada.

Work Permits

Inside Canada

Outside Canada

Processing times have improved in all countries listed.

IRCC service standards:

• 60 days for applications from outside Canada
• 120 days for in-Canada applications (initial or extension)
  
  

Study Permits

Inside Canada

Processing time has been significantly reduced.

Outside Canada

Study Permit Extensions

IRCC service standards:

• 120 days for extensions and in-Canada permits
• 60 days for permits from outside Canada

Citizenship Applications

Citizenship Grants

IRCC service standard: 12 months

Citizenship Certificates (Proof of Citizenship)

Add 3–4 months if you live outside Canada or the US. If you're a minor abroad or applied via mail, add 6–8 months.

Understanding IRCC Processing Times vs Service Standards

Processing Times are estimates based on current data and trends. They reflect how long most applications have taken recently.

Service Standards are IRCC’s internal goals for processing 80% of applications within a set timeframe. They are not guarantees.

Need Help with Your Application?

Understanding how processing times have changed can help you plan better. For expert guidance on preparing your immigration application and minimizing delays, it’s best to consult with a qualified immigration professional.