IRCC Canada Introduces New Method for Visa Processing Time Calculation

Canada has revamped its methodology for determining processing durations for immigration applications, with the goal of strengthening predictability. This adjustment aligns with suggestions outlined in an Auditor General report, with a key emphasis on enhancing applicant communication.

In a recent development, Canada has unveiled a fresh approach to determining processing durations for select applications.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have announced plans to publish projected Canada visa processing times online, employing a forward looking methodology. The initiative aims to assist applicants in forecasting the processing timeline for their submissions.

The revised processing timelines will be accessible for various high demand Canada immigration programs, including:

• Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
• Provincial Nominees Program (Express Entry and nonExpress Entry)
• Federal Skilled Workers (Express Entry)
• Quebec Skilled Workers
• Citizenship grants
• Citizenship certificate (proof of citizenship)
• Spouse/commonlaw partner residing within Canada
• Spouse/commonlaw/conjugal partner residing outside Canada
• Parents or grandparents

A Report by the Office of the Auditor General

The decision to revamp the calculation of processing times was highlighted as crucial in a report by the Office of the Auditor General last October. The report offered various recommendations concerning how IRCC handles application processing times and communicates these to clients.

In particular, the report emphasized the necessity for "online information on processing times [to] be provided for all PR applications, taking into consideration the volume and age of applications already in inventory."

This adjustment in processing time calculation marks one of IRCC's initial actions in addressing several of the report's recommendations. It is expected that the updated service standards come into play by the year's end.

#Service standards represent the duration IRCC considers acceptable for reaching a final decision on an application, varying by application type. For instance, spousal sponsorship applications aim for a 12-month service standard, while Express Entry permanent residence applications target a maximum of 6 months.

How do Forward-Looking Canada Processing Times Function?

IRCC explains that this method predicts the time needed to reach a final decision on an application based on the total queue of applications and the department's projected processing capacity.

This estimation can fluctuate depending on various factors, including available admission spaces within the annual Immigration Levels Plan, processing capabilities, and seasonal variations in application types.

Traditionally, IRCC has gauged processing times by analyzing the duration taken by past applications to finalize. The Canada PR processing time follows a backward processing time approach, that are based on the duration required to process 80% of applications in the last 6 months, while for temporary residence programs, it's around 8 or 16 weeks.

This approach remains relevant for temporary residence applications such as study permits, work permits, and visitor visas.

Current IRCC Backlog (Updated)

IRCC routinely updates the number of applications in its system, distinguishing between those processed within service standards and those not. Below mentioned are the considered backlogs.

As of March 31, the latest data reveals a total of 2,121,200 applications in inventory. Among these, 1,320,000 meet service standards, leaving 892,000 in the backlog.

Breaking it down by application type, there are 746,000 total permanent residence applications in inventory, with 440,000 within service standards and 306,000 in backlog.

For temporary residence (work, study, and visitor visas), there are 1,204,000 applications in inventory, with 538,600 in backlog and 665,400 meeting service standards.

Notably, 46% of study permit applications are in backlog, resulting from recent changes in Canada's international student program, including the requirement for Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs).

Among citizenship applications, 214,000 meet service standards out of 262,000 in inventory, leaving 47,400 in the backlog.

Also Read: Canada's Immigration Backlog: Positive Signs, But Long Road Ahead

Canada PR is Achievable with the Right Assistance (from GetGIS)

To conclude, the recent updates from IRCC regarding the calculation and communication of processing times signify a proactive step towards enhancing transparency and efficiency in Canada's immigration system.

Need personalized and dedicated Canada PR assistance? GetGIS is here for you. Our immigration experts are with you from the query handling to post landing services stage, to ensure a smooth and seamless integration into the Canadian nation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Should I submit a new Canada Visa application?

IRCC advises against it. If you've already applied using the new processing time method, you're closer to the front of the queue. Your application will still be processed in the order it was received, and typically, you will only wait until the new processing time for a decision.

Q2. What is the typical processing time for a Canadian student visa?

Typically, it takes around 6 weeks for a Canada student visa to be processed. If applying through the SDS route, it's usually 20 days post-biometrics.

Q3. What is the processing time for PNP PR applications?

For Express Entry submissions, it's about 6 months on average, while paper-based applications take around 18 months.

Q4. Will I receive an email upon approval of my Canada visa?

Yes, you'll get a confirmation email once your visa is approved.

Q5. Does receiving a PPR mean my visa is approved?

Yes, the PPR (Passport Request) indicates that you've met the criteria for visa approval. It's an invitation to submit final documents for visa issuance.