Latest IRCC Processing Time Update

Tiffany Chia
Jun 3
3 min read

⏳ Waiting on Your Canadian Immigration Application?

Here’s What the Latest IRCC Update Means for You!

Are you anxiously checking your inbox for an update on your Canadian immigration application?

Or maybe you’re about to hit “submit” and want to know what to expect? You’re not alone!

The latest IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) update is out, and we’re breaking down what it really means for you—whether you’re waiting, preparing, or just dreaming of your new life in Canada. 🧳

Get the facts, the figures, and the real talk you need to stay informed, stay sane, and stay ahead.

📈 The Big Picture: IRCC Processing Time

As of April 30, 2025, IRCC is handling a massive 2,041,800 applications—a clear sign that Canada remains a top destination for newcomers.

This is up by 65,100 from March, showing just how many people are eager to make Canada their new home, study, or work here.

But here’s the good news: IRCC is making progress on the backlog, with 760,200 applications now exceeding service standards—a drop of nearly 20,000 from last month. 🙏

Table 1: IRCC Inventory & Backlog Snapshot

Date	Total Inventory	Backlog (Over Service Standard)
Feb 28, 2025	2,029,400	821,200
Mar 30, 2025	1,976,700	779,900
Apr 30, 2025	2,041,800	760,200

🗂️ Where Do You Fit In? Category Breakdown

Table 2: April 2025 IRCC Inventory & Backlog by Category

Category	Total Apps	Backlog	% Backlog
Citizenship	242,500	44,900	19%
Permanent Residency	880,800	391,000	44%
Temporary Residency	918,500	324,300	35%
Total	2,041,800	760,200	37%

📝 What’s a Backlog?

A backlog is any application that’s been waiting longer than IRCC’s target processing time (service standard). For example

Table 3: Service Standards by Application Type

Application Type	Service Standard
Express Entry PR	6 months
Spousal Sponsorship	12 months
Study Permit	8 weeks
Citizenship	12 months

If your application is over these timelines, it’s in the backlog. But don’t panic—IRCC is working hard to clear these, and complex cases or missing info can cause delays. 🕵️‍♂️

📊 Progress in 2025 So Far

From January 1 to April 30, 2025, IRCC has:

Table 4: Finalized Application

Application Type	Decisions Made	Newcomers/Permits Finalized
Permanent Residency	156,450	132,100 new PRs
Citizenship	—	20,000 new citizens (April)
Study Permits	—	194,000 finalized
Work Permits	—	491,400 finalized

💡 What Does This Mean for You?

If You’re Waiting:

You’re not alone. IRCC is processing thousands of applications every month.
Temporary residency applicants (students, workers) are seeing faster progress.
Permanent residency applicants may face longer waits, but decisions are being made.

If You’re Applying Soon:

Get organized: Double-check your documents and submit early.
Know the numbers: Understanding where the backlogs are can help you set realistic expectations.
Stay proactive: Respond quickly to any IRCC requests.

🛠️ Actionable Tips

Check Your Status: Use the IRCC application status tool regularly. ➡️
Stay Connected: Join online forums or groups—sharing your experience can help you feel less alone. 🫂
Prepare for Next Steps: A strong, complete application can help you avoid delays! 📝