Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processing times are a critical factor for individuals planning to immigrate to Canada. Understanding the current timelines can help applicants set realistic expectations and plan accordingly. This article delves into the changes in IRCC processing times from 2024 to 2025 across various immigration categories.

Permanent Residence Applications

Express Entry Programs

The Express Entry system encompasses three main programs:

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

As of May 2025, the processing times are:

• CEC: 5 months (unchanged from June 2024)

• FSWP: 5 months (unchanged from June 2024)

• FSTP: Data not available (previously 6 months in June 2024)

These stable processing times indicate consistent efficiency in handling Express Entry applications.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Processing times for PNP applications have seen notable changes:

• Express Entry-aligned PNP: Reduced from 6 months in June 2024 to 5 months in May 2025

• Non-Express Entry PNP: Increased from 11 months in June 2024 to 20 months in May 2025

The significant increase in non-Express Entry PNP processing times may affect applicants seeking provincial nominations outside the Express Entry system.

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The AIP, designed for skilled workers in Atlantic Canada, has experienced a rise in processing times:

• Current: 11 months

• June 2024: 7 months

This increase suggests a growing demand or processing backlog within the AIP stream.

Family Sponsorship

Family sponsorship processing times vary based on the application class and intended province of residence:

• Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (outside Quebec): Increased from 10 months in June 2024 to 29 months in May 2025

• Family Class (outside Quebec): Remained steady at 10 months

• Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class (Quebec): Slight decrease from 28 months to 26 months

• Family Class (Quebec): Increased from 34 months to 36 months

Applicants should note the substantial increase in processing times for in-Canada spousal sponsorships outside Quebec.

Temporary Residence Applications

Visitor Visas

Processing times for visitor visas have generally improved:

• Inside Canada: Increased slightly from 20 days in June 2024 to 23 days in May 2025

• Outside Canada:

  • India: Reduced from 44 days to 19 days

  • Nigeria: Reduced from 177 days to 100 days

  • USA: Reduced from 27 days to 19 days

  • Pakistan: Reduced from 110 days to 27 days

  • Philippines: Increased from 21 days to 29 days

These changes reflect efforts to streamline visitor visa processing, particularly for applicants from high-volume countries.

Work Permits

Work permit processing times have seen significant shifts:

• Inside Canada: Increased from 101 days in June 2024 to 238 days in May 2025

• Outside Canada:

  • India: Reduced from 19 weeks to 15 weeks

  • Nigeria: Reduced from 21 weeks to 12 weeks

  • USA: Reduced from 15 weeks to 9 weeks

  • Pakistan: Reduced from 31 weeks to 6 weeks

  • Philippines: Reduced from 28 weeks to 6 weeks

The notable increase in in-Canada processing times suggests a need for applicants to plan accordingly.

Study Permits

Study permit processing times have improved:

• Inside Canada: Reduced from 14 weeks in June 2024 to 5 weeks in May 2025

• Outside Canada:

  • India: 10 weeks

  • Nigeria: 5 weeks

  • USA: 5 weeks

  • Pakistan: 17 weeks

  • Philippines: 17 weeks

Applicants should be aware of the varying processing times based on their country of residence.

Citizenship Applications

Citizenship Grants

Processing times for citizenship grants have increased:

• Current: 10 months

• June 2024: 8 months

Citizenship Certificates

Processing times for citizenship certificates have also seen a slight increase:

• Current: 4 months

• June 2024: 3 months

These changes highlight the importance of timely application submissions and preparedness for potential delays.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex and time-consuming. ICC Immigration is committed to guiding individuals through the most effective pathways to secure their long-term future in Canada.

Our team of immigration experts thoroughly assesses each case to recommend the best Permanent Residency (PR) options, ensuring applicants avoid the uncertainty and risks associated with asylum claims.

We offer a range of services, including:

• Permanent Residency Applications: Assistance with Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other immigration pathways for efficient processing.

• Work Permits and Study Permits: Guidance on temporary work and study options that can lead to Permanent Residency.

• Family Sponsorships: Facilitation of family reunification processes to make PR applications smoother.

• Expert Legal Guidance: Ensuring compliance with Canadian immigration policies to maximize your chances of success.

Rather than opting for the unpredictable asylum route, take a strategic and secure approach to Canadian immigration. ICC Immigration provides expert guidance to help you confidently navigate the process, whether you are already in Canada or planning your move.