How Have IRCC’s Processing Times Changed Since Mid-July?

Since mid-July 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has experienced notable changes in processing times across various immigration categories. While some streams have seen minimal fluctuations, others have faced significant delays, particularly for permanent and temporary residence applications, as well as citizenship processes.

Express Entry (Economic Immigration)

Under the Express Entry system, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) has maintained stable processing times at 5 months since July 17, 2025. However, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) has seen an increase from 6 to 7 months. The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) currently does not have published processing times due to insufficient data. IRCC’s service standard for these streams remains at 180 days (approximately 6 months).

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Enhanced PNP through Express Entry continues to be processed in 8 months, unchanged since mid-July. In contrast, the Base PNP (not via Express Entry) has seen a noticeable increase from 19 to 20 months. Service standards for these streams are 11 months for online base PNPs and 180 days for enhanced PNPs.

Quebec and Special Streams

Family Class applicants intending to settle in Quebec have been the most affected, with processing times rising by four months since July 2025. Quebec Skilled Workers are now facing processing times of 9 months.

Family Class Sponsorship

IRCC’s overseas Family Class service standard is 12 months for priority cases. However, actual processing times have increased by two months in most regions, with Quebec applicants experiencing an additional four-month delay.

Other Permanent Residence Programs

The Start-Up Visa has seen a sharp increase of 8 months, now requiring around 51 months. The Self-Employed Program has also increased by 3 months, with a processing time of 58 months. Parent and Grandparent Sponsorships remain backlogged, with average waits of 18–24 months in many cases.

Citizenship

Citizenship processing times remain relatively stable, with the Grant of Citizenship averaging 10 months, Proof of Citizenship at 5 months, and Renunciation of Citizenship at 7 months. These timelines have not seen major changes recently.

Permanent Resident Card (PR Card)

New PR Cards are being processed in an average of 50 days, while renewals are taking 18 days, up by two days recently.

Temporary Resident Applications and Other Notes

Visitor, study, and work permit processing times are updated weekly and can fluctuate. Some extensions have seen a slight decrease, down 11 days to 193 days. IRCC now uses advanced analytics to process 80% of applications within estimated timelines. However, the backlog has grown to over 900,000 applications as of July 31, 2025, contributing to longer waits in several categories.

Factors Affecting Processing Times

Quebec applicants generally face longer waits due to additional provincial processing layers. Online applications are processed faster than paper-based ones across all categories. Healthcare workers and in-Canada family sponsorships are prioritized for faster processing.

Summary of Current Trends

Most application timelines are now two months longer than in mid-July 2025, with specific categories like those involving Quebec and business immigration experiencing even greater delays. Only a few streams, such as the Canadian Experience Class under Express Entry, have maintained stable processing times. IRCC’s published timelines are estimates and not guarantees, as individual experiences may vary due to errors, incomplete documents, verification requirements, or volume fluctuations.

In summary, IRCC processing times have generally increased since mid-July 2025—by about two months in most cases—with sharper rises for certain streams and for applicants destined for Quebec. Applicants are encouraged to apply online where possible, ensure complete documentation, and monitor IRCC updates for the latest changes.

Understanding the Delays: Factors and Implications

The Impact of the Growing Backlog

As of July 31, 2025, IRCC’s backlog has surpassed 900,000 applications, marking the third consecutive month of increases. This surge in pending cases has significantly contributed to longer processing times across various immigration categories. The backlog’s growth is particularly evident in streams such as the Start-Up Visa and Self-Employed Program, where processing times have increased sharply, now requiring 51 and 58 months, respectively. This backlog underscores the challenges IRCC faces in managing the volume of applications, emphasizing the importance of efficient processing systems and the need for applicants to plan well in advance.

Technology’s Role in Processing

IRCC has implemented advanced analytics to enhance processing efficiency, with 80% of applications now being processed within estimated timelines. This technological advancement aims to streamline decision-making and reduce delays. However, the remaining 20% of cases may still experience extended processing times due to complexities such as additional documentation requirements or case-specific issues. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their submissions are complete and accurate to avoid unnecessary delays.

Prioritization of Applications

IRCC continues to prioritize certain applications to address urgent needs. Healthcare workers and in-Canada family sponsorships are given precedence, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing labor shortages and family reunification. This prioritization, while beneficial for specific groups, may result in longer waits for other applicants, highlighting the balancing act IRCC must perform to meet diverse immigration goals.

Strategies for Applicants

In light of these changes, applicants should consider several strategies to navigate the current environment. Submitting applications online is strongly recommended, as digital processing is generally faster than paper-based submissions. Ensuring all documentation is complete and meeting deadlines can also help avoid delays. Additionally, applicants should regularly monitor IRCC updates and consider seeking professional advice to optimize their chances of timely processing.

Conclusion

The increase in IRCC processing times since mid-July 2025 presents both challenges and opportunities for applicants. While the growing backlog and extended delays may cause frustration, understanding the factors at play and leveraging available tools and strategies can help applicants better manage their expectations and navigate the immigration process more effectively. Staying informed and adapting to changes remain crucial for success in the current immigration landscape.

Conclusion

Since mid-July 2025, IRCC processing times have seen a general increase of about two months across most immigration categories. While some streams, such as the Canadian Experience Class, have maintained stable processing times, others, particularly those involving Quebec and business immigration, have experienced more significant delays. The growing backlog, which now exceeds 900,000 applications, has been a major contributor to these extended processing times. Applicants are encouraged to apply online, ensure complete documentation, and stay informed about IRCC updates to navigate the current immigration landscape effectively.

FAQ

What factors are causing the delays in IRCC processing times?

The primary factors contributing to delays include the growing backlog of over 900,000 applications, additional provincial processing requirements for Quebec applicants, and the prioritization of certain application types such as healthcare workers and in-Canada family sponsorships.

How can I check the current processing times for my application?

You can check the current processing times on the official IRCC website. Processing times are updated regularly and may vary depending on the specific immigration category and destination province.

Will the processing times decrease in the near future?

While IRCC has implemented advanced analytics to improve processing efficiency, the current backlog and volume of applications suggest that processing times may remain elevated in the short term. Applicants are advised to plan accordingly and monitor IRCC updates for any changes.

Is it better to apply online or through a paper-based application?

Online applications are generally processed faster than paper-based applications. IRCC encourages applicants to submit their applications digitally to reduce processing times and avoid delays.

What can I do to avoid delays in my application?

To avoid delays, ensure your application is complete, all required documents are included, and you meet the eligibility criteria. Submitting applications online and avoiding errors in your submission can also help reduce processing times.