The latest processing time updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reveal significant delays across nearly all immigration programs. As of June 2025, applicants face longer waits for everything from citizenship approvals to temporary visas. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the current situation and what it means for your Canadian immigration plans.
Citizenship and PR Card Delays Reach New Highs
Canadian citizenship applications now take up to 10 months to process, while requests for citizenship records searches have ballooned to 15 months. Permanent resident cards show similar strain – while renewals remain relatively quick at 14 days, first-time PR card issuance now takes 49 days, reflecting increased demand and processing bottlenecks.
Family Sponsorship Backlogs Continue Growing
Family reunification applicants face some of the longest waits. Spousal sponsorships for applicants already in Canada now take between 11 to 38 months depending on case complexity. The Parents and Grandparents Program shows even more dramatic delays, with Quebec-bound applications taking a staggering 48 months compared to 24 months for other provinces. These extended timelines stem largely from additional verification requirements in Quebec’s immigration system.
Economic Immigration Pathways Show Mixed Results
Express Entry remains Canada’s fastest permanent residence option, with most skilled worker applications processed within 5 to 6 months. However, other economic programs face severe backlogs. Self-employed and startup visa applicants now wait 43 to 53 months – nearly four and a half years for a decision. Provincial Nominee Program processing times range from 6 to 12 months depending on the specific province.
Temporary Visa Processing Times Vary Widely
Visitor visa processing shows significant country-to-country differences. Applications from India currently take about 21 days, while Nigerian applicants wait 83 days. Study permits for Pakistani students require 11 weeks of processing time, and work permit applicants from the UAE face a 9-week wait. Most concerning are in-Canada work permit applications, now taking 225 days (about 7.5 months) to process.
How to Navigate the Delays
With processing times at record highs, applicants need strategic approaches:
- Submit absolutely complete applications to avoid requests for additional information
- Check IRCC’s processing times page weekly for updates
- Consider alternative pathways if your application involves Quebec processing
- Rely only on official IRCC communications for updates
- Consult with a licensed immigration professional for complex cases
These extended processing times reflect both increased application volumes and IRCC’s ongoing efforts to maintain rigorous screening standards. While delays are frustrating, understanding current timelines helps set realistic expectations for your Canadian immigration journey.
For those already in the queue, patience remains essential. New applicants should build extra time into their plans and explore all available options to minimize disruption to their immigration goals. As always, staying informed through our official channels provides the most accurate picture of this evolving situation.
Let Worldbridge Immigration Services be your guide to a successful future in Canada
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Website: www.theworldbridge.ca
Email: info@theworldbridge.ca
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