How to Know if IRCC Has Received Your Immigration Application

Confirming whether Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has received your immigration application is a critical step in the process. Knowing the status of your submission can provide peace of mind and help you plan accordingly. However, understanding how IRCC confirms receipt and tracks applications can be confusing, especially for first-time applicants.

1. How IRCC Confirms Receipt of Your Application

Once IRCC begins processing your application, they will issue an official Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter or email. This notification is your first concrete proof that IRCC has received and opened your application. The AOR includes your unique application number, which you will need for future correspondence and tracking.

It’s important to note that IRCC does not send the AOR immediately after receiving your application. The acknowledgement is only issued once your application has been reviewed for completeness. This means there can be a delay between the delivery of your application and the issuance of the AOR.

In some cases, applications may be returned without an AOR if they are incomplete, missing required fees, or submitted after a program has been paused, closed, or reached capacity. This underscores the importance of ensuring your application is complete and eligible before submission.

2. Tracking and Proof of Delivery

The method you use to apply will determine how you can track your application and confirm delivery to IRCC. Below are the key steps for different application methods:

If You Mailed Your Application:

Using a postal or courier service with a tracking number is the best way to confirm that your application has been delivered to IRCC. While this provides proof of delivery, it does not guarantee that your application has been opened or is being processed. IRCC will only begin processing once they have reviewed your application for completeness.

If You Applied Via a Visa Application Centre (VAC):

Visa Application Centres (VACs) typically offer their own tracking services that allow you to monitor the status of your application. These services can tell you when your application has reached IRCC offices. However, like mailed applications, this does not confirm that processing has begun.

3. Checking Application Status Online

IRCC provides two main online tools to track the progress of your application:

a. IRCC Secure Online Account

You can create an online account and link it to your application. This account provides regular status updates and secure messages from IRCC, replacing traditional postal mail notifications. If you applied online, note that you will need to create a new account for tracking, as it is separate from the one used to submit your application.

b. Client Application Status Tool

The Client Application Status Tool is another way to monitor your application’s progress. Updated daily, this tool allows you to view:

• The current stage of your application (e.g., “in progress” or “received”)
• Detailed steps in the process, such as eligibility reviews, medical checks, and background verifications
• The status of submitted documents
• Any upcoming steps or additional requirements

To use this tool, you will need your application number, surname, and date of birth. Make sure to gather all relevant documents before checking the status to ensure you have the necessary information readily available.

4. Additional Tips and Important Notes

While tracking your application, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:

First, ensure that your contact information is up-to-date in IRCC’s system. This is crucial for receiving timely notifications and updates regarding your application. IRCC uses the contact details provided in your application to communicate with you, so any changes should be reported promptly.

If you encounter technical difficulties while using the online tools or if your application involves complex issues, it may be necessary to contact IRCC directly for clarification. The department provides support for such cases, but be prepared for potential delays in response times.

5. Processing Times

Understanding IRCC’s processing times is another key aspect of tracking your application. If you are unable to access the online status tool, you can refer to IRCC’s published processing times for different types of applications. These times are updated regularly and provide a general estimate of how long it may take for your application to be reviewed.

It’s important to note that processing times begin only when your application is officially opened and deemed complete by IRCC. This means that the delivery time of your application to IRCC’s office does not count toward the processing timeline. Delays can occur, especially for complex applications or when there is a backlog of cases.

6. Common Issues and Limitations

Despite the availability of tracking tools, some issues may arise that prevent you from confirming receipt or tracking your application:

If you mailed your application and it does not appear in the online status tool, it could mean that IRCC has not yet opened it or that there was an error in entering your identification numbers. In such cases, it’s best to wait a few more days before contacting IRCC.

In some instances, applications may be returned to you without being processed. This typically happens if your application is incomplete, missing required fees, or submitted after a program has been paused, closed, or reached capacity. In these cases, no status will be available online, and you will need to address the issue before resubmitting.

Additionally, IRCC’s online tools may occasionally experience outages or technical difficulties. If you are unable to access the Client Application Status Tool or your secure online account, try again later or contact IRCC support for assistance.

7. Summary Table: Ways to Know if IRCC Has Received Your Application

8. Conclusion

In summary, the primary indicators that IRCC has received and started processing your application are the issuance of the Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) and updates available through IRCC’s online status checker tools. For applications submitted by mail or through a Visa Application Centre, delivery confirmation only proves that your package reached IRCC’s office, not that processing has begun. By utilizing the online tools and keeping your contact information up-to-date, you can stay informed about the progress of your application and receive timely notifications from IRCC.

Conclusion

In summary, confirming whether IRCC has received your immigration application involves understanding the issuance of an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) and utilizing IRCC’s online tools. For applications submitted by mail or through a Visa Application Centre, delivery confirmation only proves that your package reached IRCC’s office, not that processing has begun. By leveraging the online tools and keeping your contact information up-to-date, you can stay informed about your application’s progress and receive timely notifications from IRCC.

FAQ

What is an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR)?

The AOR is an official notification from IRCC confirming that your application has been received and is being processed. It includes your unique application number, which is essential for tracking your application.

How can I track my immigration application?

You can track your application using IRCC’s online tools: the Client Application Status Tool or your secure online account. These tools provide updates on the status of your application and any additional steps required.

Does delivery confirmation mean IRCC has started processing my application?

No, delivery confirmation only proves that your application has reached IRCC’s office. Processing begins only after your application has been reviewed for completeness, and you will receive an AOR once processing starts.

How long does it take for IRCC to process my application?

Processing times vary depending on the type of application. IRCC publishes regular updates on processing times, which can be used as a general guideline. Keep in mind that processing times begin only when your application is officially opened and deemed complete.

What if I can’t find my application status online?

If you can’t find your application status online, it may mean that IRCC has not yet opened your application or there was an error in entering your identification numbers. Wait a few days and try again. If the issue persists, contact IRCC support for assistance.