Canada Improves Tool to Estimate Work Permit and Study Permit Processing Times

Waiting for a work visa or study permit decision in Canada can be stressful. To help ease those anxieties, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has enhanced its online processing times tool, providing more accurate estimates for new applicants.

Understanding Processing Times

Once you’ve submitted your application for a work visa or study permit in Canada, it’s natural to wonder how long it will take for the process to be completed.

Processing times are crucial indicators of the timeframe within which Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processes an application under typical conditions.

The clock starts ticking from the day IRCC receives your application, whether it’s through mail, online, or in person. This duration extends until a final decision is made on your application. To simplify this process and provide clarity to applicants, IRCC is enhancing its online processing times tool.

What’s New?

Previously, the tool relied on historical data (backwards-looking processing times). Now, IRCC utilizes a forward-looking approach, allowing applicants to understand how long it might take for their application to be processed from the date of submission. This empowers immigrants to make informed decisions regarding travel and living arrangements.

Must Read: Canada Reduces Wait Times for Proof of Citizenship Applications

Which Applications Are Included?

The forward-looking processing times currently cover various immigration programs, including:

• Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (Express Entry and non-Express Entry)
• Federal Skilled Workers (Express Entry)
• Quebec Skilled Workers
• Citizenship applications
• Spousal and common-law partner sponsorships (both inside and outside Canada)
• Parent’s and grandparent’s sponsorships

What About Other Applications?

For programs not yet included in the forward-looking system, IRCC will continue to rely on backwards-looking processing times based on historical data.

Current Processing Times

As of May 9, 2024, the processing time for temporary residence applications, such as visiting, studying, or working for a study permit (from outside Canada), stands at 14 weeks (Last updated: April 30, 2024, Updated weekly).

Similarly, for a work permit (from outside Canada), the processing time is 21 weeks.

However, it’s essential to note that if you’re not applying to work in an essential occupation, the processing time may exceed the displayed duration.

Important Notes

• Processing times represent the average and might vary depending on individual circumstances.
• The timeframe doesn’t include biometrics collection or application delivery time.
• If you’ve already applied, your processing time might be shorter than the current estimates as you’re closer to the queue’s front.
• Avoid re-applying, as it delays your application.

Also Read: 8 Ways to Study in Canada Without a Study Permit

Conclusion

Navigating the immigration process can be complex, but understanding processing times is essential for effective planning. With IRCC’s enhanced online tool and clear timeframe estimates, prospective immigrants can confidently make informed decisions and embark on their Canadian journey.