Canada Immigration Backlog Decreases Below 830,000 as IRCC Increases Processing Speed

The backlog of immigration applications at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is steadily decreasing.

As of March 2025, the backlog has dropped to 821,200, down from 892,100 in January—representing a monthly decline of nearly 8%.

According to IRCC data, this is the third consecutive month the backlog has remained below one million applications. The department is processing more applications within its service standards, which vary by program.

About Backlog

IRCC classifies applications as part of the backlog when processing times exceed its service standards.

For instance, Express Entry applications are expected to be completed within six months, while family sponsorship applications have a 12-month target. Any delays beyond these timelines place the applications in the backlog.

IRCC aims to process 80% of applications within these service standards, with the remaining 20% potentially taking longer due to complexities.

Overview of Backlog Trends Over Six Months

The backlog of immigration applications has been steadily decreasing since September 2024, as detailed below:

What is the Current Status of Permanent Residence Applications and Backlogs?

At the end of February 2025, IRCC had 842,600 PR applications in its inventory.

These applications span several streams, including Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and family sponsorship programs. 

Here's a detailed breakdown:

Stream-Specific Backlogs

• Express Entry: 25% of applications were backlogged, exceeding IRCC's target of 20%.
• PNP (Express Entry-aligned): Backlog increased to 36% in February, up from 30% in January.
• Family Sponsorship: Backlog decreased slightly to 14%, compared to 15% in the previous month.

What is the Current Status of Temporary Resident and Citizenship Applications?

Temporary Resident Applications

As of February 2025, IRCC had 947,200 temporary resident applications in its inventory, of which 414,500 were backlogged.

Only 56% of these applications were processed within service standards.

Current Status of Citizenship Applications

Citizenship applications remain the least affected category:

• Total applications: 239,600
• Processed within service standards: 196,900 (82%)
• Backlog: 18%, below IRCC's target threshold of 20%.

How is IRCC Reducing the Immigration Backlog in 2025?

IRCC has introduced several strategies to tackle the persistent backlog of immigration applications. These measures aim to streamline processing and improve efficiency across various immigration categories.

Leveraging Advanced Technology

IRCC has implemented automation and AI-driven analytics to accelerate application processing. New user-friendly online portals were introduced, allowing applicants to easily track their application status and submit necessary documents. These initiatives improve transparency and help avoid unnecessary delays. As of November 2024, IRCC processed over 80% of visitor visa applications using digital tools.

Managing Application Intake

To control inventory growth, IRCC has imposed caps on specific programs. For instance, study permit approvals were limited to 360,000 in 2024—a reduction of approximately 35% compared to the previous year. IRCC is focusing on clearing existing applications without overwhelming their processing capacity.

Adjusting Immigration Targets

The Immigration Levels Plan 2025–27 set consistent, permanent resident admission targets: 485,000 for 2025 and 500,000 annually for 2026 and 2027. These steady numbers help IRCC better manage application inventories while meeting service standards.

Prioritizing Key Sectors

Applications from essential workers in healthcare, construction, and technology are being prioritized for faster processing to address labour shortages in critical industries.

IRCC's ongoing efforts to reduce the immigration backlog through technology, controlled application intake, and adjusted targets reflect a commitment to improving the immigration process in Canada.

While challenges remain, these strategies aim to create a more efficient system that benefits both applicants and the country.

As IRCC puts these measures into action, aspiring immigrants can look forward to quicker processing times and a smoother experience on their path to Canada.

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