IRCC Backlog Grows as Canada Cuts Temporary Resident Numbers: The rising IRCC backlog of immigration applications has become a significant challenge, affecting individuals and businesses across Canada. As of July 2024, over 1 million applications are in backlog, with 49% of temporary resident applications waiting beyond the standard processing times. The increase in backlogged applications is causing delays in processing temporary resident visas, study permits, work permits, and permanent residence applications. This issue has highlighted the need for immediate solutions to ease the burden on the system.
Impact of IRCC backlog on Temporary Residents
The backlog is particularly noticeable in the processing of temporary resident visas. Many applicants seeking work or study permits, or visitor visas, face extended waiting times. For example, 64% of visitor visa applications and 24% of study permit applications are currently in backlog. This IRCC backlog increase is not only frustrating for applicants but also hinders businesses and institutions that rely on international workers and students.
Study permit delays are especially concerning as Canada is a popular destination for international students. The backlog is causing uncertainty for students whose studies may be affected, putting their academic and career plans on hold.
Work Permit and Visitor Visa Delays
Work permit delays are another major challenge. As of July 2024, 43% of work permit applications are in backlog, slowing down the hiring of skilled foreign workers. This impacts Canadian businesses, especially in industries like healthcare and technology, where demand for skilled workers is high. The visitor visa backlog in Canada is also affecting tourism, family reunification, and international travel plans.
Permanent Residence Processing Times
While temporary resident visas are seeing the worst delays, permanent residence processing times are also affected. Out of the 766,200 permanent residence applications in the inventory, 299,000 are currently in backlog. This growing delay means that those aiming to settle permanently in Canada face uncertainty about their future.
IRCC Service Standards
To address these challenges, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is reviewing its service standards, which outline the expected processing times for various immigration applications. The IRCC aims to process 80% of applications within these service standards, but the Canadian immigration delays caused by the backlog are making this goal difficult to achieve. The IRCC has committed to updating these standards by the end of 2024.
IRCC’s Immigration Backlog Solutions
To reduce the backlog, the IRCC is considering measures such as reducing the number of temporary residents entering the country. This will allow the department to focus on clearing the current backlog and processing applications more efficiently. Additionally, prioritizing applications in essential sectors, such as healthcare and agriculture, is part of the IRCC immigration backlog solutions.
Read more:
- IRCC 2024 Work Permit Extension Policy for PNP Candidates
- Low-Wage LMIA Processing Suspension for TFWP in some cities
- Positive Economic Benefits Continue for Express Entry Candidates
Lastly, the IRCC’s rising backlog presents significant challenges for applicants, businesses, and institutions in Canada. The delays in processing temporary resident visas, study permits, and work permits are slowing down the flow of international talent and affecting many industries. The IRCC is taking steps to reduce the backlog, but the demand for faster processing remains critical. As service standards are updated and the backlog is managed, applicants can expect improvements in processing times, but it will take time for the situation to stabilize.
Connect with us:
Schedule an appointment with us HERE to connect with a licensed RCIC immigration consultant today. We’ll guide you through every step.
Looking to navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration with ease? Let New Track Immigration help you through the process. Contact us today for expert guidance on managing your application and overcoming the challenges of IRCC’s rising backlog. Reach out to us now for personalized support!
