Understanding Your IRCC Application Status: A Simple Guide

Navigating the process of checking your application status with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can be crucial for those looking to move to Canada. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to stay updated about your IRCC application.

Options for Checking Your Application Status

When you apply for immigration to Canada, you can track the progress of your application in several ways:

1. IRCC Application Portals: This is the most direct method. By logging into your secure IRCC account, you can view a summary update of your application status.
2. Application Status Tracker (AST) Tool: For more detailed updates, IRCC has created the AST tool. This service is available for various applications including Express Entry, study permits, work permits, visitor visas, and family sponsorship. The tool provides comprehensive information on the status of your application.
3. Global Case Management System (GCMS) Notes: If you’re interested in a deeper insight into the processing of your application, you can request GCMS notes. These notes offer a behind-the-scenes look at your application processing stages, actions taken by the government, and comments from the officer handling your case.
4. Client Application Status Site: Separate from the AST tool, this site provides status updates for applications not covered by the AST, like citizenship or permanent residence applications.
   
   

What Does the AST Tool Show?

The Application Status Tracker tool helps you monitor various aspects of your application:

• Overall Status: Shows if your application is received, in progress, or closed.
• Application Details: Tracks the status of eligibility checks, medical exams, background verifications, and biometrics.
• Document Status: Updates on critical documents like Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and visas.
• Contact Details and Next Steps: Essential for knowing what actions might be required from you next.
  
  

When Can You Start Checking Your Application Status?

To start using the AST tool, a few steps need to occur first:

• Submission of the application.
• IRCC acknowledges receipt and queues it for processing.
• The application must pass a completeness check.
• You’ll receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) which includes your application number.

Once you have the AOR, you can begin to regularly check the status of your application.

Understanding Status Messages in the AST Tool

Here’s what the various status messages mean:

• Received: Your application is under initial review.
• In Progress: Your application is actively being processed.
• Closed: Your application has been either approved, refused, or withdrawn.
  
  

Application Details Status Messages:

• Not Started
• Waiting on You: Indicates that IRCC requires more information from you.
• In Progress
• Completed
• Exempted: You’re not required to complete this section.

This guide aims to simplify the process of tracking your IRCC application. Knowing where your application stands can help manage expectations and prepare for the next steps in your journey to becoming a resident or citizen of Canada.