Introduction:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plays a crucial role in processing immigration and citizenship applications in Canada. The latest data reveals a slight increase in application backlog since April, and this article provides insights into these developments. If you need guidance or assistance with your immigration journey, Unitia Immigration Consulting Inc is here to support you. Visit our website at [Insert Website URL] for expert advice.
IRCC Application Backlog in May:
As of May 31, 2023, there were 2,248,000 applications across all lines of business in IRCC’s inventory, marking an increase from the 2,006,000 recorded on April 30, 2023. Additionally, the backlog of applications, which refers to those not meeting service standards, has risen slightly from just over 800,000 to 820,000.
Applications in inventory represent submissions to IRCC that are awaiting finalization. In 2022, IRCC managed to finalize over 5.2 million applications.
Potential Reasons for Backlog:
Several factors may explain the increase in application backlog. Firstly, a labor disruption caused by the Public Service Alliance of Canada strike occurred between April 19 and May 1. During this period, approximately 100,000 applications that IRCC couldn’t process under normal circumstances contributed to the backlog.
Furthermore, the summer months typically witness a surge in applications for visitor visas, study permits, and work permits.
IRCC’s Service Standards:
IRCC aims to process 80% of all applications within service standards, which vary depending on the application type and complexity. For instance, Express Entry applications for permanent residence should ideally be processed within six months, while family class sponsorship applications have a 12-month standard. Temporary residence permits come with service standards ranging from 60 to 120 days, depending on the purpose (work or study).
IRCC’s Backlog Projections:
Here’s a breakdown of the application backlog in various categories:
Permanent Residence:
Total permanent residence applications in May: 640,000
52% (332,000) processed within service standards
48% (308,000) in backlog
PR application backlog lower than projected, with only 15% of Express Entry PR applications in backlog
Citizenship:
Total citizenship grant applications in May: 308,000
73% (225,000) processed within service standards
27% not meeting service standards
Slightly lower processed citizenship applications than projected (23% instead of 24%)
Temporary Residence:
Total temporary resident applications in May: 1.3 million
871,000 processed within service standards
429,000 in backlog
IRCC exceeded projections for study permits processing (17% within service standards)
Temporary resident permits processing improved (45% backlog)
Work permits processing rate was lower (27% backlog) compared to the projected rate (24%)
Notably, 72% of work permits in the May inventory are related to the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. This program allows displaced Ukrainians to arrive in Canada as visitors while simultaneously applying for work permits without a fee.
Conclusion:
The increase in application backlog at IRCC is attributed to various factors, including a labor disruption and seasonal application influx. It’s essential to stay informed and updated on the status of your immigration application. If you require guidance or support in your immigration journey, don’t hesitate to contact Unitia Immigration Consulting Inc at info@unitiaimmigation.com or visit our website at https://unitiaimmigration.com/. We are dedicated to assisting you throughout your immigration process. Your path to Canadian immigration success starts with us!
