IRCC Processing Times Update: Canada Visa Insights 2024
If you’re planning to move to Canada, understanding the current immigration processing times is crucial. This article will give you a comprehensive overview of what’s happening with applications under various streams—including Permanent Residency (PR) and work permits—as of now, and how these changes may affect you as an international job seeker.
Understanding Processing Times
Processing times can fluctuate based on numerous factors such as application volumes, existing backlogs, and changes in immigration policies. Recently, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated its estimates, providing insights into how long different applications may take.
Permanent Residence Applications
Express Entry remains one of the most popular pathways for skilled workers aiming for PR in Canada. Generally, it hasn’t seen as much fluctuation as other application types. The current processing time for Express Entry applications is around 180 days.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
If you’re thinking about applying through the Provincial Nominee Program, bear in mind the processing times have increased. Currently, applications through Express Entry take about 8 months, while those not going through Express Entry can take around 19 months. Fast processing is still available for Enhanced PNP applicants, aligned with Express Entry.
Spousal Sponsorship
If you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident looking to sponsor a spouse for PR, be prepared for longer waiting times. Depending on where you’re applying from (inside or outside Quebec), the processing times can range from approximately 11 months to 38 months. The most significant delays are for applicants outside Quebec, with a jump from about 11 months to 34 months.
Work Permits in Canada
When it comes to work permits, processing times can vary widely depending on whether you are applying from within Canada or from abroad.
Outside Canada
For applicants from various countries, changes in processing times have been quite notable. For instance, if you’re applying from India, processing has improved from 19 weeks to just 7 weeks; while applicants from Pakistan saw a drop from 24 weeks to 5 weeks.
Inside Canada
Applicants already in Canada can also seek work permits. Unfortunately, processing times for in-Canada applications have increased from about 109 days to 182 days recently. It’s vital to plan ahead if you find yourself in this situation.
Temporary Residence Applications
If you are contemplating a temporary move, like studying or visiting, keep in mind that Visitor Visa processing times also vary. For instance, processing from India has dropped from 51 days to 28 days, while from Nigeria, it has unfortunately gone up from 56 days to 182 days.
Visitor Records
When extending or altering your status in Canada, you’ll need a visitor record. The processing time has increased to about 193 days, so make sure to submit your application early!
Citizenship Applications
For those who might be eyeing Canadian citizenship, the application process has shifted slightly. Processing times have risen from about 7 months to a current average of 10 months. However, the IRCC aims for a service standard of 12 months for citizenship grants, so keep this in mind as you plan your next steps.
What This Means for You
If you’re exploring job opportunities from overseas, remember that every listing on VisaJobsCanada.com includes visa support, ensuring that companies are ready to help you navigate the immigration landscape. It’s essential that you stay informed about these processing times, as they will directly impact your transition to living and working in Canada.
What do you think?
Have a question about this topic or your own plans to move to Canada? Scroll down and leave a comment. We’d love to hear from you.
