IRCC Unveils Analytics & Automation to Fast-Track Processing for Spousal Sponsorship

IRCC is set to implement advanced analytics and automated technology to streamline the processing of spousal and partner applications under family class immigration. Two new tools have been developed to enhance efficiency in different parts of the sponsorship application process.

According to the IRCC, these processing changes will apply to all spousal and partner applications under the family class. Sponsorship applications for spouses, common-law partners, and conjugal partners within family class immigration will be processed using these new tools.

Also Read: A Guide to Canada Family Visa Requirements, Process & Fees

What are the Plans for IRCC's Implementation of These New Processing Tools?

IRCC will introduce automation in 2 stages for spousal and partner sponsorship applications.

• The first stage, the sponsorship part, will use an automation tool to identify and automatically approve straightforward cases, reducing processing times. Complex cases will be sent to an IRCC officer for manual review.
• In the second stage, the principal applicant part, another tool will conduct a preliminary analysis of applicant eligibility. For routine applications, the tool can determine eligibility and forward the file to an IRCC officer to check admissibility. If eligibility cannot be automatically approved, the application will be manually reviewed by an officer.

It's important to note that these tools cannot give final approval or refuse applications—final decisions remain with IRCC officers.

How Will These Tools Impact Spousal and Partner Sponsorship Processing?

IRCC, although has announced new tools to improve spousal and partner sponsorship processing. They promise to use "data-driven technologies" while respecting privacy and human rights. An algorithmic impact assessment (AIA) was done, categorizing the impact as "moderate," with additional risk management measures.

They also indicate that It's too early to see the full impact, but previous use of technology shows promise. For example, AI helped process 98% of spousal temporary resident visa (TRV) applications in 2023, reducing wait times to just 30 days.

Read this news where in 2023 spousal visas were approved in a record-breaking 30 days and that too with a 90% approval rate, IRCC Processes Spousal TRVs in Just 30 Days with a 90% Approval Rate

A New Era in Immigration Processing

In conclusion, the introduction of advanced analytics and automation by IRCC for spousal and partner sponsorship applications marks a significant step towards more efficient and timely processing. While it's early to assess the full impact, past successes with similar technologies indicate a positive trend.