5 Steps to Take If Your Canada Visa Application is Delayed

Canada's immigration system is facing a significant backlog issue, causing delays in processing applications. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to know what steps you can take to stay informed and address the delay.

• Manish Khandelwal
• 26/06/2023
• 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Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing shortages, high demand, and outdated technology contribute to the problem, leaving applicants frustrated.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.