Canada Immigration Update – October 2025

Exciting news for individuals applying for Canadian permanent residency (PR) or citizenship! Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated its online processing tool, providing applicants with personalized timelines based on their application date and current queue position. This is a significant step forward in transparency, replacing the previous system that only showed average processing times.


What’s New With the IRCC Processing Tool?

Previously, PR and citizenship applicants could only see generic processing times depending on the program. The new update allows you to:

  • Check the estimated processing time for your specific application based on when you applied.

  • See your position in the queue relative to other applicants.

  • Compare your timeline with the processing time for applicants applying today.

For temporary residence applications, the interface remains unchanged.


How the Tool Works

The updated tool asks two main questions for applicable application types:

  1. Have you already applied? (Yes/No)

  2. When did you apply? (Input year and date)

Scenario 1: You’ve Already Applied

If you answer Yes, the tool will display:

  • Estimated time remaining for a decision

  • Number of applicants ahead of you in the queue

  • Total applicants waiting

  • Processing time for new applications for comparison

Example: Sally submitted an Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) application in May 2025. Checking in October 2025, she sees:

  • Estimated time left: 26 months

  • Applicants ahead: 9,500

  • Total waiting: 13,100

  • Processing time for new applicants: 37 months

Scenario 2: You Haven’t Applied Yet

If you answer No, the tool will show:

  • Processing time if you applied today

  • Total applicants currently waiting

Example: Rachel, planning to apply to the AIP, would see:

  • Estimated processing time: 37 months

  • Total waiting: 13,100

Note: Certain applications may require additional location-based questions.


Which Applications Are Affected?

Currently, personalized processing times are available for the following categories:

Economic Immigration

  • Atlantic Immigration Program

  • Express Entry: Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program

  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

  • Self-Employed Persons Program

  • Quebec Business Class

  • Start-up Visa Program

Family Class Sponsorship

  • Spouse or common-law partner (inside or outside Canada)

  • Parents and Grandparents Program

Note: Personalized timelines are not available for dependent children, adopted children, or other relatives.

Citizenship

  • Citizenship grants

  • Citizenship certificates

Other Applications

  • Humanitarian and compassionate cases

  • Refugee applications (Protected persons and Convention refugees in Canada)

Applications to amend or replace documents are not included in the update.


How ICC Immigration Can Help You Navigate PR and Citizenship

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, and delays can be stressful. This is where ICC Immigration steps in. Our team of experts can help you identify the best immigration pathways and ensure your applications are smooth, compliant, and effective.

Our Services Include:

  • Permanent Residency Applications: Through Express Entry, PNPs, or other pathways, we help maximize your chances of success and minimize delays.

  • Work Permits and Study Permits: We guide temporary residents seeking career or education opportunities in Canada, paving the way to PR.

  • Family Sponsorships: Reunite with your loved ones and secure their PR status efficiently.

  • Expert Legal Advice: We provide professional guidance on Canadian immigration policies, helping applicants avoid pitfalls and achieve their goals.

Instead of relying on uncertain asylum routes, take control of your future with a clear, stable path to permanent residency. ICC Immigration ensures you make informed decisions every step of the way.

Whether you are already in Canada or planning your move, ICC Immigration is ready to provide guidance, support, and a personalized roadmap for your PR and citizenship journey.