Has IRCC Received Your Application? Here's How to Check

If you’re navigating the Canadian immigration process, knowing whether Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has received your application is crucial. Whether you’re applying online, through a visa application centre (VAC), or by paper, each method has its own way of confirming submission. This guide breaks down how to check if your immigration application has been received by IRCC — and how ICC Immigration can assist you every step of the way.

✅ Online Applications

When you submit your application online through your IRCC secure account, you’ll immediately see a confirmation page. This page is your first indication that IRCC has successfully received your application.

Soon after, IRCC will also send a confirmation email to the email address you provided. This email typically includes:

Confirmation that your application has been submitted,
A prompt to check your IRCC online account for messages or updates,
An application number, which is vital for future tracking.

🟡 Note: This initial confirmation is not the official Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR). An AOR is issued only once your application is opened and reviewed for completeness by IRCC. Receiving your AOR could take anywhere from a few days to a few months, depending on the type of application and current processing volumes.

🛃 Applications Submitted via Visa Application Centres (VACs)

If you applied through a VAC, you will receive a tracking ID or reference number. This number is essential for checking your application’s journey to IRCC. VACs offer various tracking options, including:

Online tracking tools on their official websites
Email notifications
Web chat and phone helplines
SMS updates (note: this may incur additional fees)

To know the specific tracking services available in your region, refer to the official VAC page on Canada.ca.

📄 Paper Applications

Paper-based applications do not receive an AOR immediately. To ensure proof of delivery:

Use a postal or courier service that provides a tracking number and requires a signature on delivery.
Keep the proof of delivery receipt for your records.

📲 If eligible, you can link your paper application to your IRCC secure account, which allows you to view status updates digitally.

How to Link Your Immigration Application to Your IRCC Account

Linking your application to your online account gives you real-time access to messages and status updates. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Create an IRCC Secure Account

If you don’t already have one, register through IRCC’s official portal.

Step 2: Link Your Application

Go to “View the applications you submitted” and click “Add (link) your application to your account”.

You’ll need your application number and personal details used in the original application. You get five attempts per 24 hours to link your application.

Step 3: Check Application Status

Once linked, updates will appear under “Check status and messages.” It can take up to five days for your application to appear. If issues persist, use the IRCC web form to report technical problems.

Which Applications Can Be Linked?

As of 2025, you can link the following application types to your IRCC account:

Permanent Residence

Express Entry (CEC, FSWP, FSTP)
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Family sponsorship
Agri-Food Pilot, AIP, Caregiver Programs
Quebec-selected immigration streams
Self-employed & Start-up Visa
TR to PR Pathway

Temporary Residence

Work Permits & Extensions
Study Permits & Extensions
Visitor Visas & Records
International Experience Canada (IEC)

Other

Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTA)
Permanent Resident (PR) cards
Interim Federal Health Program

🔎 If your application is not eligible for linking, use the Check Application Status tool or check processing times online.

Why Choose ICC Immigration?

Navigating the immigration process can be complex, especially when dealing with crucial steps like application submission and tracking. This is where ICC Immigration becomes your trusted partner.

How ICC Immigration Helps You Secure Your Future in Canada:

✔ Permanent Residency Applications
We handle Express Entry, PNPs, and all other PR pathways with precision and efficiency.

✔ Work & Study Permits
Need temporary status in Canada? We help secure the right permits while building toward PR.

✔ Family Sponsorship
Bringing loved ones to Canada? Our team ensures a smooth and compassionate reunification process.

✔ Expert Legal Guidance
Avoid costly mistakes. Our legal experts ensure that your applications comply fully with IRCC policies.

🔒 Secure Your Future—Not Through Asylum, But Through Strategy
Rather than risking an uncertain future through asylum claims, let ICC Immigration show you the secure, strategic route to permanent residency in Canada—tailored to your unique circumstances.

Final Thoughts

Tracking your immigration application status with IRCC is not only possible—it’s essential. Whether you’ve applied online, through a VAC, or on paper, understanding how and when IRCC confirms receipt gives you peace of mind.

And remember, ICC Immigration is here to support you with expert guidance, whether you’re just starting your journey or waiting for your AOR.