IRCC recently launched a new way to estimate application processing time. Candidates should have more information and certainty. A recent announcement stated that this plan includes employing forward-looking processing timeframes, which are currently available online for several popular immigration programs.
This update includes the following programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
- Provincial Nominees Program (Express Entry and non-Express Entry)
- Federal Skilled Workers (Express Entry)
- Quebec Skilled Workers
- Citizenship grants
- Citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship)
- A spouse or common-law partner living in Canada
- Spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner living outside Canada
- Parents or grandparents
In its October report, the Office of the Auditor General recommended forward-looking processing timelines. The analysis showed that processing speeds and client communication require improvement. Since then, IRCC has promised to implement these proposals. IRCC has since committed to addressing these recommendations, with updated service standards anticipated to be in place by the end of the year.
The service criteria represent IRCC’s desired application decision time. These requirements vary by application. Spousal sponsorship applications require 12 months, but Express Entry applications for permanent residency should be approved within six months.
How do forward-looking processing periods work? This procedure depends on the department’s estimated ability to handle all applications, according to the IRCC. Consider the number of admission seats in the annual Immigration Levels Plan, as well as seasonal changes in application types. In the past, IRCC estimated application processing time using prior application times.
Utilizing forward-looking processing times directs individuals’ attention towards future processing. While this new method applies to certain immigration programs, applications for temporary residence, such as study permits, work permits, and visitor visas, will still use backward processing times.
For individuals who have already submitted applications under the new processing time method, IRCC advises against reapplying. The department assures applicants that they will process their applications in the order they receive, and most will likely receive a decision within the new forward-looking processing time.
According to the most recent update, IRCC has disclosed figures regarding application backlogs and those within service standards. The data, current as of March 31, reveals a total of 2,121,200 applications in inventory, with 1,320,000 meeting service standards and 892,000 classified as backlog. This breakdown extends to various application types, encompassing both permanent and temporary residence categories.
To conclude, IRCC’s move to indicate future working times will make immigration applications more transparent and efficient. The agency intends to better serve clients and reduce application backlogs.
