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• include the payment with your application; and
• double-check your application before submitting it.

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An important update on canadian immigration processing times for 2023.

By Rebecca Major

Posted on August 29, 2022

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This article was updated more than 6 months ago. Some information may be outdated.

Canada is taking big steps to reduce immigration processing times, with a hiring ramp-up and additional tools to get newcomers settled in Canada more quickly.

On August 24, 2022 the Canadian government released an important update on processing times for Canadian immigration applications in 2022 which continues to have an impact in 2023. Canada has accumulated an inventory of 2.2 million immigration applications, resulting in extreme processing delays. However, this number is down from the 2022 backlog of 2.4 million.

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In the August 24, 2022 update, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released updated processing data alongside measures for how the immigration department will reduce processing times and projected processing times for the rest of the year. 

Let’s dive into the latest 2023 numbers.

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How many canadian immigration applications are waiting to be processed.

There are 2.2 million total applications in all IRCC inventories. These numbers are accurate as of November 3rd, 2023.

It is normal for Canada to have a high number of applications in its inventories at any given time. In fact, 1.26 million of the applications in the current inventory are still within IRCC’s service standards. The department strives to process 80 percent of applications within the service standards. Having more than 1 million applications awaiting processing is to be expected.

However, there are presently more than 923,500 million applications in the inventory—42 percent of applications—that have exceeded IRCC’s service standards. Applications that exceed the service standard are considered “backlogged.” This means IRCC is falling far short of its processing goals.

Does IRCC have a plan to speed up immigration application processing?

Yes. IRCC is implementing several measures to work through its backlog of immigration applications including hiring more processing personal, utilizing AI technology and streamlining run of the mill applications. 

IRCC is also implementing changes to keep processing times low over the long term. After receiving additional funding of $85 million from Canada’s Economic and Fiscal Update 2021 , IRCC has digitized applications for more programs and implemented technology-based solutions to support faster processing times over the long term.

IRCC has also committed to publishing monthly data on their website to keep applicants informed of anticipated processing times. In their August 24 announcement , IRCC published data from the month of July, providing detailed figures about current and projected processing times for different types of immigration applicants. Since August 2022, IRCC have maintained reporting on processing delays. 

How long will it take to process my Canadian immigration application?

IRCC aim to offer processing within service standards to 80% of applications. Latest numbers from IRCC state the following service standards per application:

Work permit Work permit applications submitted outside Canada: All programs (excluding International Experience Canada) IRCC service standard: process applications within 60 days IRCC performance according to latest data: processed 71% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for work permits (as of November 14th 2023) : This really depends on the country responsible for processing files. Examples include India at 11 weeks, Nigeria at 12 weeks, Philippines at 19 weeks, UK at 31 weeks and the USA at 11 weeks.

Work permit extensions submitted in Canada IRCC service standard : process applications within 120 days IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 75% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for work permit extensions (as of November 14th 2023): 137 days

Work permit applications under International Experience Canada IRCC service standard : process applications within 56 days or less IRCC performance according to latest data: processed 78% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for IEC work permits (as of November 14th 2023): 4 weeks

New study permit applications submitted outside Canada IRCC service standard: process applications within 60 days IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 64% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for study permits (as of November 14th 2023):  11 weeks

Study permit (new permit and extension) applications submitted in Canada IRCC service standard: process applications within 120 days IRCC performance according to latest data: processed 94% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for study permits in Canada (as of November 14th 2023): 4 weeks for new applications and 139 days for extensions.

Visitor visa and electronic travel authorization (eTA) IRCC service standard: process applications within 14 days IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 36% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for Visitor visas and ETA’s (as of November 14th 2023): For visitor visa’s this really depends on the country responsible for processing files. Examples include India at 29 days, Nigeria at 512 days, Philippines at 32 days, UK at 271 days and the USA at 21 days. ETA’s are currently being processed in 5 minutes.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)  (via Express Entry) IRCC service standard: process electronic applications within 180 days IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 71% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for Canadian Experience Class applications (as of November 14th 2023): 5 months

Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program (via Express Entry) IRCC service standard: process electronic applications within 180 days IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 0% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for Federal Skilled Worker Program applications (as of November 14th 2023): 5 months

Federal Skilled Trades Program (via Express Entry) IRCC service standard: process electronic applications within 180 days (which doesn’t include the province or territory’s processing time) IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 0% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for Federal Skilled Trade (FST) Program applications (as of November 14th 2023): Not enough information. This is because FST applicants do not fair well within the Express Entry pool due to the equivalency of their trade education. For FST applicants to receive an invitation to apply, there needs to be more FST specific Express Entry draws.

Provincial Nominee Program (paper applications) IRCC service standard: process all paper applications within 11 months (which doesn’t include the province or territory’s processing time) IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 19% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for PNP non Express Entry applications (as of November 14th 2023): 15 months

Provincial Nominee Program (via Express Entry) IRCC service standard: process electronic applications within 180 days (which doesn’t include the province or territory’s processing time) IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 20% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for PNP non Express Entry applications (as of November 14th 2023): 8  months

Quebec-selected skilled worker program IRCC service standard: process applications within 11 months (which doesn’t include the province’s processing time) IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 5% of applications within the standard. Current IRCC processing times for Quebec Skilled Worker Program applications (as of November 14th 2023): 13  months

Family sponsorship Family Class Priority (Overseas – spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners and dependent children) IRCC service standard : process applications within 12 months IRCC performance according to latest data : processed 53% of applications within the standard Current IRCC processing times for sponsorship application (as of November 14th 2023): For spousal sponsorship applications, processing times ranges from 10 to  months 13 months. If the province of Quebec is involved in the application, the processing delays are substantially more.

Permanent Residence applications: Processing Times

As of November 3, 2023, Canada had a total of 646,900 permanent residence applications awaiting processing. Of these applications, 362,300 (56 percent) were within IRCC’s service standards for processing times. This shows an improvement of almost 10 percent when looking at 2022 numbers.  

Processing times for Canadian citizenship applications

As of November 3, 2023, Canada had a total of 274,600 citizenship applications awaiting processing. Of those, 216,400 (79 percent) were within IRCC’s service standards for processing. This shows an improvement of 14 percent compared to 2022 numbers. 

Processing times for temporary residence applications

As of November 3, 2023, Canada had a total of 1,273,000 temporary residence applications awaiting processing. This includes applications for visitor visas, work permits, and study permits. Of those applications, 687,000 (54 percent) were within IRCC’s service standards for processing. This shows an improvement of 13 percent compared to 2022 numbers. 

How many immigration applications will Canada process in 2023/2024?

2023 has been a frustrating year for many Canadian immigration applicants who have been waiting far longer than expected for their applications to be processed. One of the reasons processing times are so high is because Canada is processing record-high quantities of applications across many different categories. However data shows that IRCC are now processing applications faster than before. 

In 2024, IRCC aims to admit the highest number of new permanent residents on record — 485,000. That’s up significantly from 2023 when 465,000 new permanent residents were admitted, and nearly double the annual immigration rates we saw earlier in the 21st century.

Canadian immigration processing times have been unpredictably slow over the past few years. With Canada’s upgrades to the immigration department’s processing capacity and commitment to more frequently publish transparent processing data, there are reasons to be optimistic about improvements in the months ahead. However, only time will tell if the government has taken adequate steps to get processing times under control and keep them there.

To be the first to find out about the latest Canadian immigration updates, create a free Moving2Canada account and subscribe to our newsletter.

About the author

Rebecca Major

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Facing delays in your immigration application? Here are some steps you can take

When applying to work, study or immigrate to Canada, a foreign national must submit their application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). IRCC has service standards that provide the usual processing times for applications. However, there can be delays to these processing standards, causing the processing time of the application to be much longer than IRCC’s service standard.

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Canada’s immigration system is experiencing a backlog problem. Backlogs have been due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing shortages, high demand, and aging technology. Personal application delays can be due to missing documentation, or requirements like background checks that take extra time.

What are your options?

There are a few options if you are experiencing delays in your application.

The first thing an applicant should do is check their application status online through IRCCs website. It provides a processing times tool that is meant to accurately show the expected wait times. It is important to ensure that all documentation is complete and up to date, in order to avoid any unnecessary delays.

Once this is done, you may file a webform inquiry or call the IRCC customer center to see if they can provide you with a substantive response as to the reason for the delay in your application. If the inquiries to IRCC go unanswered or are unsatisfactory, you can try asking a local member of Parliament to file a status update request.

For applications submitted after 2010, you can also file an ATIP, or an Access to Information and Privacy Application. An ATIP is a request for an applicant’s Global Case Management System (GCMS) notes. Along with the GCMS notes, they can request their Computer Assisted Immigration Processing System (CAIPS) notes or their Field Operations Support System (FOSS) notes.

These notes will give you an idea about if anything is wrong in your application, or if the IRCC officer has noted concerns or doubts about your application. It also provides an opportunity to submit additional evidence addressing those doubts.

If necessary, you can also hire a lawyer to submit a formal request letter via the IRCC webform. This letter will emphasize that the processing time has exceeded the average processing time for the sort of application you are applying for, the efforts you have made to follow up with IRCC, and how the delay has negatively impacted you.

Applying for an Order of Mandamus

If the average processing time has passed and the other efforts and options described above are unsuccessful, then the last resort is to apply for an Order of Mandamus. The Federal Court will hear requests for these orders, which pressures IRCC to decide about the application.

It is recommended that you hire a lawyer to help you through this process. The threshold for an Order of Mandamus is high. Obtaining an Order will hinge on whether the applicant has exceeded the average processing time and is subject to unreasonable delays.

There are eight conditions that should be satisfied to warrant an Order:

• There must be a public legal duty to act (to process the application)
• The duty must be owed to the applicant
• There is a clear right to the performance of that duty, in particular that the applicant has satisfied all conditions giving rise to the duty and there was unreasonable delay
• No other adequate remedy is available to the applicant
• The order sought will be of some practical value or effect
• The Court finds no equitable bar to the relief sought
• On a balance of convenience, an order of mandamus should be issued

One example of a balance of convenience that is in favour of an applicant is that the applicant is unable to renew their driver’s license or health card unless they have a valid work permit or study permit .

Waiting to hear about your application can be a stressful process that takes time and money. It is important to stay informed about the status of your application, to be proactive in updating your file and correcting any errors and being patient.

• Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
• Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at [email protected]

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Dealing with Visa Application Delays: What to Expect and Do

Immigrating to Canada is a dream for many individuals seeking better opportunities and a high standard of living. However, the process of obtaining a Canadian visa can sometimes be marred by delays, creating frustration and concern among applicants. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind visa delays in Canada , their impact on immigrants, effective ways to address delays, and government initiatives to reduce processing times. Securing a visa to enter Canada is crucial for individuals aspiring to live, work, study, or visit the country. The Canadian government acknowledges the importance of an efficient visa application system, but delays can occur due to various factors. Understanding these reasons and exploring potential solutions is essential for anyone planning to apply for a Canadian visa.

Understanding the Canadian visa process

Before delving into the reasons behind visa delays, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the Canadian visa process. Canada offers various types of visas, such as work visas, study visas, and visitor visas. Each visa category has its own set of requirements and application procedures.

The visa application process generally involves several steps, including completing application forms, providing necessary documents, paying fees, and attending interviews or medical examinations, depending on the type of visa. Also, familiarize yourself with the requirements and guidelines relevant to your visa category. 

Factors contributing to Canada visa delays

Visa delays in Canada can be attributed to several contributing factors, varying depending on the visa category and individual circumstances. Below are some common factors that can lead to delays in obtaining a Canadian visa:

• Increase in visa applications: The growing popularity of Canada as an immigration destination has resulted in a significant increase in the number of visa applications. This surge in demand can lead to delays in the processing of immigration applications.
• Changes in immigration policies: Immigration policies and regulations undergo periodic updates or changes. These policy changes can impact the visa application process and result in delays as applicants and immigration officials adjust to new requirements.
• Insufficient documentation: Incomplete or inaccurate documentation is a common reason for delays in visa applications. Reviewing the visa application guidelines carefully and submitting all necessary documents to avoid delays is crucial.
• Background checks and security clearances: Visa applications often undergo rigorous background checks and security clearances to ensure the eligibility and security of the applicants. These checks may take considerable time, leading to a Canada Visa Delay.
• Administrative backlog: Due to the high volume of visa applications, administrative backlogs can occur, resulting in delays in the processing of applications. The processing times may vary depending on the office handling the application.

Understanding these factors will help applicants manage their expectations and make necessary preparations to prevent or address potential delays in their visa application process.

Impact of visa delays on immigrants

Visa delays can have severe consequences for individuals planning to move to Canada . The following are some of the significant impacts experienced by immigrants due to visa delays:

• Financial implications: Delays in processing of visa applications can lead to additional financial burdens, such as extended accommodation rental costs, rescheduling flights, and the need to secure alternative arrangements while awaiting visa approval.
• Disrupting relocation plans: Visa delays can disrupt an individual’s carefully planned relocation, including job offers, educational opportunities, and family reunification plans. The uncertainty caused by such delays can be emotionally distressing.
• Emotional stress and uncertainty: The emotional toll of waiting for a visa approval can be overwhelming. Immigrants may experience anxiety, stress, and uncertainty about their plans, which strain their mental well-being.
• Delay in accessing healthcare and other benefits: Immigrants may face challenges in accessing healthcare services, social benefits, and other essential services while their visa applications are pending. This delay can have a significant impact on their overall well-being.

The impact of Canada visa delays on immigrants goes beyond mere inconvenience; it can profoundly influence their lives and aspirations. Therefore, it is crucial to address and manage any potential delays effectively.

Dealing with Canada visa delays

While visa delays can be frustrating, there are specific steps applicants can take to alleviate the situation. Here are some practical ways to deal with Canada visa delays:

• Stay informed and check application status: Regularly monitoring the status of your visa application through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) online portal is essential. This will provide updates on the progress of your application and any additional information or documentation required.
• Contacting the IRCC: If there are significant delays in your visa application process or you require any clarifications, contacting the IRCC directly can provide valuable insights. Maintaining documentation of all communication is recommended for future reference.
• Seeking legal assistance: In situations where visa delays are causing significant hardship or appear unreasonable, seeking legal assistance from qualified immigration lawyers or consultants experienced in dealing with visa-related matters can be beneficial. They can provide guidance and advocacy to address delays effectively.
• Consideration of expedited processing: In certain circumstances, applicants may be eligible for expedited processing of their visa applications. This can apply to situations where there are exceptional reasons or urgent requirements. Review the official guidelines and criteria provided by the IRCC to determine if you qualify for expedited processing.

By following these steps and proactively addressing visa delays, applicants can increase their chances of navigating the process more smoothly and expeditiously.

Tips to avoid visa delays

While it is not entirely within an applicant’s control to eliminate visa delays, several proactive measures minimize the risk of facing unnecessary unnecessary delays. Here are some essential tips to avoid visa delays:

• Submit complete and accurate documentation: Ensure that all required documents are included in your visa application and are accurate and up-to-date. Verify the specific document requirements for your visa category and thoroughly review them before submission to minimize delays and negative impacts.
• Follow the visa application guidelines: Carefully read and understand the visa application guidelines provided by the IRCC. Failure to follow these guidelines may lead to delays or application rejection.
• Be aware of any policy changes or updates: Stay informed about any changes or updates that may impact your visa application process. Regularly check the official IRCC website or consult the services of a reputable immigration consultant to stay up-to-date with any changes.
• Start the visa application process early: Initiating the visa application process well before your planned travel or intended start date is crucial. This allows ample time for document collection and preparation and unreasonable delays.
• Engage professional immigration consultants if needed: When navigating the complex visa application process, seeking assistance from qualified immigration consultants can be valuable. These professionals possess the expertise and knowledge to guide you through the eligibility requirements, deadlines, and potential challenges.

Adhering to these tips will help applicants reduce the chance of encountering avoidable visa delays, ensuring a smoother and more efficient Canadian immigration process.

Case studies: Real-life experiences of visa delays

Hearing real-life experiences provides valuable insights into the impact of visa delays and the challenges immigrants face. Here are a couple of case studies highlighting the difficulties faced by individuals due to visa delays:

• John’s Story : a skilled worker, John eagerly accepted a job offer in Canada . However, his visa application was put on hold due to a sudden policy change. This delay meant he had to decline the job offer, leading to financial strain and professional setbacks.
• Maria’s Story : Maria, an international student accepted into a Canadian university, experienced unforeseen delays in her study visa application. This setback resulted in missed enrollment deadlines and the necessity to defer her admission by a year, significantly impacting her academic plans.

These real-life examples showcase the emotional and practical challenges individuals face due to visa delays. Learning from their experiences can help others prepare and address potential delays effectively.

Government initiatives to reduce visa delays

Recognizing the importance of efficient visa processing, the Canadian government has implemented several initiatives to reduce delays and improve the overall application experience. Some of these Government services include:

• Introduction of electronic visa processing systems: The IRCC has introduced electronic systems to process visa applications more efficiently. This helps streamline the process and reduce manual paperwork, resulting in faster processing times.
• Hiring additional staff in visa processing centers: To accommodate the increasing number of visa applications, the Canadian government has invested in hiring additional staff at visa processing centers. This helps address the administrative backlog and expedite processing.
• Improving visa application tracking system: The IRCC has enhanced its online application tracking system, allowing applicants to check the status of their visa applications more conveniently. This transparency helps applicants stay informed about the progress of their application.
• Streamlining the visa application process: The government has tried to simplify and streamline the process, reducing unnecessary steps and paperwork. This streamlining improves efficiency and reduces the potential for delays.

These government initiatives demonstrate a commitment to enhance visa processing and address delays, allowing applicants to experience a smoother and more timely application process.

Obtaining a Canadian visa is a significant milestone for individuals aspiring to live, work, study, or visit Canada . However, visa delays can create significant disruptions and uncertainties, impacting the lives and plans of immigrants. Applicants can navigate the visa process more effectively by understanding the factors contributing to visa delays, adopting proactive strategies to minimize delays, seeking support when needed, and staying informed about government initiatives.

Remember, visa delays are not entirely uncommon. Still, with proper preparation, patience, and perseverance, applicants can increase their chances of obtaining their desired visa and embarking on a new chapter in Canada .

It is advised to file a status update request if your inquiries go unanswered.

• Q: How long does processing a Canadian visa application typically take? A: The processing times for Canadian visas vary depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications. It is advisable to check the official IRCC website or consult an immigration consultant for the latest processing time estimates.
• Q: Can I expedite the processing of my Canadian visa application? A: In exceptional circumstances or with urgent requirements, it may be possible to request expedited processing. Review the IRCC guidelines to determine if you qualify for expedited processing.
• Q: What should I do if my visa application is significantly delayed? A: If you experience significant delays, it is advisable to contact the IRCC directly to inquire about the status of your application and seek clarification.
• Q: How can I ensure my visa application has all the required documents? A: Review the specific document requirements outlined by the IRCC for your visa category. Seeking assistance from professional immigration consultants can also help ensure your application is complete and accurate.

Q: Are government resources available to help applicants with visa delays? A: The IRCC website provides valuable information and resources for visa applicants, including updates on processing times and guidelines. Regularly checking the official website for any updates relevant to your visa application is recommended.

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5 Steps to Take If Your Canada Visa Application is Delayed

• Visas & Passports

Canada’s immigration system is grappling with a significant backlog issue, causing delays in the processing of visa applications. According to recent data from IRCC, the immigration backlog grows to 2.248 Million in May.

The Immigration backlog includes applications for Permanent Residence, Citizenship, Temporary Residence and Work Permits.

Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing shortages, high demand, and outdated technology contribute to the problem, leaving applicants frustrated. However, there are steps you can take to obtain information about the status of your application.

Steps to Take for Canada Visa Delays

Follow these guidelines to navigate the process effectively and stay informed.

1. Check Your Application Status

The first step is to visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and check the status of your application . The website provides a processing times tool that offers an estimate of the expected wait times. To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure that all your documentation is complete and up to date.

2. Contact IRCC for Information

If you require more information about your application and the reasons behind the delay, consider filing a web form enquiry or contacting the IRCC customer care number. Through these channels, you may receive a substantive response regarding the status of your application.

In case you do not receive satisfactory answers or your inquiries go unanswered, reaching out to a local member of Parliament can be helpful. They can file a status update request on your behalf.

3. Request GCMS, CAIPS, or FOSS Notes

For applications submitted after 2010, you have the option to file an Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) application. This allows you to obtain valuable insights by accessing your Global Case Management System (GCMS) notes, Computer Assisted Immigration Processing System (CAIPS) notes, or Field Operations Support System (FOSS) notes.

These records shed light on any concerns or doubts raised by IRCC officers, enabling you to address them with additional evidence.

4. Seek Legal Assistance

Consider hiring an immigration lawyer who specializes in these matters. They can guide you through the process and help you submit a formal request letter via the IRCC web form. The lawyer can emphasize the extended processing time and highlight the negative impact of the delay, strengthening your case for expedited processing.

5. Applying for an Order of Mandamus

If you have exhausted all other options without obtaining a resolution, you may choose to apply for an Order of Mandamus .

A Mandamus is an order from a court to an inferior government official ordering the government official to properly fulfil their official duties or correct an abuse of discretion.

This legal process involves seeking relief from the Federal Court, which places pressure on IRCC to make a decision on your application. It is crucial to have the assistance of an immigration lawyer as the threshold for obtaining an Order of Mandamus is high.

• A public legal duty to process the application exists.
• The duty is owed to the applicant.
• The applicant has fulfilled all conditions that give rise to the duty, and there has been an unreasonable delay.
• No other adequate remedy is available.
• The requested order will have practical value or effect.
• There are no equitable barriers to the relief sought.
• An order of mandamus is warranted based on the balance of convenience.

If you are facing delays with your Canada immigration application, it is important to take action. By following the steps outlined above, you can increase your chances of getting your application processed in a timely manner.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips for dealing with Canada immigration application delays:

Be patient:  Processing times for Canadian immigration applications can be long, so it is important to be patient. However, you should also be proactive and take steps to track the status of your application and address any issues that may be delaying it.

Stay organized:  Keep track of all of your application documents and correspondence with the IRCC. This will help you to stay organized and to provide the IRCC with any information they need in a timely manner.

Be prepared to provide additional information:  The IRCC may request additional information from you during the processing of your application. Be prepared to provide this information promptly.

Don’t give up:  If your application is delayed, don’t give up. Keep taking steps to track the status of your application and to address any issues that may be delaying it. With patience and perseverance, you will eventually get your application processed.

By following these steps and seeking appropriate assistance, you can navigate the challenges posed by delays in the Canada immigration application process effectively.

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Manish Khandelwal

Manish Khandelwal, a travel-tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Travelobiz.com, he's passionate about writing.

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Continuing visa delays putting Canada’s competitiveness at risk

• Continuing processing delays, and a mounting backlog of visa applications, remains an area of growing concern for Canadian educators and foreign students and partners alike
• Canadian immigration officials are moving to add staff and reduce processing times but the considerable backlog has meant that some students are faced with the prospect of deferring their programme starts this year
• In a related development, the Canadian government has extended its COVID-era policy allowing students to complete up to 100% of their studies online and still be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processed 360,000 study permit applications between 1 January and 31 July 2022, and projected recently that it would handle another 104,000 applications during the month of August.

The volume of applications – and study permits granted – continues to surge above pre-pandemic levels this year but even so there remains a considerable backlog of files awaiting processing. IRCC had previously reported that, as of 29 June 2022, the backlog of temporary residence applications (a category that includes study permits and other temporary resident visa classes) had grown to more than 1.5 million files (representing a near doubling of processing volumes as of October 2021).

The situation is such that potentially thousands of foreign students are at risk of having to defer their planned programme starts this year if they cannot receive their study permits in time.

Speaking recently to the Globe & Mail newspaper, Universities Canada president Paul Davidson said that the scale of the current processing delays are putting at risk Canada's competitiveness in international student markets.

“The universities have done an exceptional job of marketing themselves virtually and having students enrol online," he said. "That’s the 90% that they need to do. And then if we can’t get [the students] onto campus, it’s a blow, not only for universities. It’s the third or fourth fall like this, where we have been unable to meet the mark on visa processing.”

Criticism is coming from outside the country as well, with the Indian government pressing Canadian immigration officials to make faster progress on the backlog. "The Indian High Commission in Ottawa has asked the Canadian authorities to look into the problems faced by college students enrolled in Canadian universities, who are unable to join the academic courses due to delays in the processing of their visas and student permits," reported the Economic Times recently.

The Times of India , meanwhile, reported on a case from the Indian city of Gurugram, where one family has been waiting for their son’s study permit for several weeks. “We have applied for the study permit through the student direct stream (SDS) because we were advised that it would be faster than the normal stream and my son would get the visa within 45 days. But it’s now over 55 days and the document is not yet here. There is a long queue and there are cases pending from the beginning of May and I have no idea when my son, who was scheduled to join an undergrad course in business at the University of British Columbia (UBC), will be able to travel,” said the father.

The Canadian government is taking action

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau created a cross-government task force in June 2022 and gave it a mandate to tackle the massive processing backlog for immigration files of all kinds. Speaking at a 29 August update on the task force's progress, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser said that IRCC was taking steps to improve services and reduce processing times.

The Minister cited in particular the hiring up to 1,250 new staff members through summer and fall in order to increase processing capacity, and a further streamlining of operations at IRCC to help reduce processing times over the longer term.

"Families, communities, and businesses deserve an immigration system that works for everyone," said Minister Fraser. "Through targeted investments to address the backlog…we will reduce wait times and work hard to attract and retain skilled workers, as we continue to help communities across the country access the talent they need.”

Canada is a top destination for people around the 🌎 We've been taking concrete steps to strengthen our immigration system and reduce the backlog, to help address our labour shortage and reunite families ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/uVimuO7fWw — Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) August 29, 2022

Extending eligibility for online studies

In another apparent nod to its continuing struggles with the current processing backlog, IRCC announced on 25 August an extension for the COVID-era policy allowing international students to apply for Canada’s popular Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) regardless of how much of their study programme is completed online.

IRCC says that this policy will remain in place until 31 August 2023 . Students studying online, or who have submitted a study permit application by that date, will remain eligible for a PGWP.

For additional background, please see:

• " Canadian immigration officials report surging demand in 2022 "
• " International student numbers in Canada rebounded close to pre-pandemic levels in 2021 "
• " Canada: International students can complete studies online and still be eligible for post-study work permit "
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Calgary misses out on hosting major international conference due to visa processing delays

Organizers moved 2025 event to indonesia where process is easier.

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Organizers with the International Health Economics Association (IHEA) cancelled plans to have Calgary host their next global congress over worries Ottawa couldn't process hundreds of attendees' visas in time for the July 2025 event.

It was to be hosted at the University of Calgary campus.

Instead, they moved their biennial conference to Indonesia because they say the system there is quicker and easier, providing visas upon arrival.

The head of the IHEA says that means Calgary businesses won't get a chance to benefit from the potential economic spinoffs.

"The economic cost to, you know, to Calgary is enormous, right?" said Kara Hanson, IHEA president and professor of health economics at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

"You've got your 1,500 people who were all going to stay in hotels and eat out in restaurants and, I don't know, maybe go to the Stampede, maybe have their holidays attached to this as well," Hanson added.

One of the Calgary organizers, University of Calgary economics professor Aidan Hollis, says he and others have worked on this event for more than a year — in collaboration with the University of Calgary, the Institute of Health Economics and Tourism Calgary — before finding out earlier this month it was being moved.

"It's certainly frustrating. I think the university has lots to offer (and it ) would have been great for our students," said Hollis.

Federal minister aware

The head of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, Deborah Yedlin, says the visa processing issue was raised with federal Immigration Minister Marc Miller during his visit to Calgary earlier this month for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities annual conference.

Yedlin says these delays are affecting international students and tourists as well as conferences.

And she says the problem needs to be sorted out soon because Calgary is set to host up to 20,000 people from all over the world for the 2025 Rotary International Convention. And she says hotels are already filling up.

"This is something we actually need to turn our minds to," said Yedlin.

"Because to have this happen again would be a really bad outcome for Calgary and for Canada," she added.

Need expedited process

Hanson says 500 to 600 of the roughly 1,500 expected delegates from around the world needed a visitor visa to attend the five-day, scientific and policy based conference next year. 

And even though the event is still more than a year away, Hanson says delegates are notified they've been accepted only a few months prior to the event based on the their most recent research.

So she says that wouldn't be enough time according to the estimated visa processing times listed on the Canadian government's website. It lists waits as long as 10 months for some countries in Africa. 

Hollis says he had been working with the special events department at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) but was told they couldn't expedite the process.

Hollis says he understands the need for scrutiny with respect to processing visa applications, but he says the federal government needs to be able to do so in a timely manner for conferences.

"It doesn't actually take a year to do visa processing," said Hollis.

IRCC response

In a statement from IRCC, a spokesperson says it's "committed to supporting organizers who chose Canada as a destination to host their international events by making the visa application process as easy and efficient as possible."

It recommends organizers register their event with the IRCC to "receive information on Canada's visa and entry requirements, along with personalized services to make sure they have the resources and the support they need to plan their event."

It says it's helped register more than 400 events this year — up from 250 last year — through its special events services.

And it says it's continuing its work to reduce wait times by hiring new processing staff in 2022, digitizing applications and implementing technology-based solutions such as digital intake and advanced analytics.

Hanson says international organizations are now considering visa procedures more carefully as they move forward because delays and processing issues are not isolated to Canada. 

"It's just very high risk to hold them in such places because it really threatens the internationalism of the event, you end up only attracting those who know they can get in, and that really undermines the conversations that can take place," said Hanson.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Colleen Underwood has been a reporter/editor with CBC news for more than 15 years filing stories from across southern Alberta for radio, television and online. Please contact her @ [email protected] with your questions or concerns. Follow her on Twitter @cbccolleen.

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Document Checklist: Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa) – Applicants in Canada (IMM 5721)

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• Thread starter Oluwasaanu
• Start date Aug 27, 2022

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I have applied for visitor visa since June 2022 and I did my biometric July 6, 2022 I am still waiting for visa approval. Please why delay as such.  

Oluwasaanu said: I have applied for visitor visa since June 2022 and I did my biometric July 6, 2022 I am still waiting for visa approval. Please why delay as such. Click to expand...

Naturgrl said: You have only been waiting two months. Where do you live as most countries have processing times of 6-7 months? Delay is backlog as some many visas have been submitted. Have you had Canadian or US TRV? Click to expand...

Oluwasaanu said: Am applying from Nigeria, I have a conference to attend with my MD in September ending . I wish I get my approved before then. Any assistance. Click to expand...

Naturgrl said: Processing form Nigeria is around 5-6 months and no way to expedite (everyone wants that). IRCC doesn’t take into account travel dates so your application will still be processed if the conference dates passes. Click to expand...

raman2care said: Wait... No one can do anything. I applied on 3 may , still waiting Click to expand...

Oluwasaanu said: Alright, thanks for your quick response. It's means I will wait for 2 months more. This is very serious. Anyway thanks Click to expand...

canuck78 said: What kind of conference are you attending with your physician? It is fairly unusual to attend a conference with your physician as a patient. Is your physician presenting at the conference? HAve you indicated that you’ll be attending the conference together? Visas in general from Nigeria take longer than average to process. How Much personal savings have you each shown for yourself as personal savings? What type of ties have you shown to your home country? Longterm full-time job with proof of leave, property ownership, previous international travel to places like the UK, US, Australia, NZ, etc., etc. When is the conference? Do yo7 have a flight already? Have you explored your options about up to what point you can cancel your conference attendance and will you get a refund? What about flights? Click to expand...

cansha said: OP probably meant Managing Director (their boss in company) and not Medical Doctor. Click to expand...

Naturgrl said: Agree. Assume OP explained why conference is so important if MD already is attending. Why does OP need to go too? Click to expand...