Canada continues to be a leading destination for immigrants worldwide. Knowing the latest IRCC processing times is essential for planning citizenship applications, PR card renewals, or temporary residency submissions. Below, we’ll explore the December 2024 updates to help you make informed decisions.
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Understanding IRCC Processing Times
The IRCC updates processing times regularly based on the current workload and efficiency. These updates help applicants:
- Plan effectively for moves or career transitions.
- Avoid delays by preparing applications with adequate time.
- Submit applications optimally, ensuring all documentation is complete.
December 2024 IRCC Processing Times
Citizenship Applications (Updated Monthly)
| Application Type | Processing Time | Change Since Last Update |
|---|---|---|
| Citizenship Grant | 7 months | No change |
| Citizenship Certificate | 3 months | Reduced by 1 month |
| Renunciation of Citizenship | 16 months | No change |
| Search of Citizenship Records | 11 months | No change |
Quick Tip: IRCC began issuing acknowledgment of receipt (AOR) letters for applications submitted during the week of December 4, 2024.
Permanent Resident (PR) Card Processing (Updated Weekly)
| Application Type | Processing Time | Change Since Last Update |
|---|---|---|
| New PR Card | 21 days | Reduced by 2 days |
| PR Card Renewal | 37 days | Reduced by 3 days |
Family Sponsorship (Updated Monthly)
| Category | Processing Time | Change Since Last Update |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse/Common-Law Partner (Outside Canada) | 10 months | No change |
| Spouse/Common-Law Partner (Inside Canada) | 12 months | No change |
| Parents/Grandparents | 24 months (Non-Quebec) | No change |
| Parents/Grandparents (Quebec) | 48 months | No change |
Economic Immigration (Updated Weekly & Monthly)
| Program | Processing Time | Change Since Last Update |
|---|---|---|
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 5 months | No change |
| Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) | 5 months | No change |
| Provincial Nominee Program (Express Entry) | 6 months | No change |
| Provincial Nominee Program (Non-Express Entry) | 13 months | No change |
| Quebec Skilled Workers (QSW) | 11 months | No change |
| Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) | 8 months | No change |
| Start-up Visa | 40 months | No change |
Temporary Residency Processing Times (Updated Weekly)
Visitor Visa
| Country | Processing Time | Change Since Last Update |
|---|---|---|
| India | 109 days | Reduced by 2 days |
| United States | 27 days | Increased by 1 day |
| Nigeria | 170 days | Reduced by 2 days |
Study Permits
| Country | Processing Time | Change Since Last Update |
|---|---|---|
| India | 4 weeks | No change |
| United States | 11 weeks | Increased by 1 week |
Key Insights
- Completeness Matters: Missing documents or incomplete applications can delay processing.
- Case Complexity: Applications involving background or security checks may take longer.
- Submit Early: Early submission reduces the risk of delays due to fluctuating processing times.
FAQs on IRCC Processing Times
1. How often are processing times updated?
- IRCC updates times monthly for citizenship, family sponsorship, and economic immigration. Updates for temporary residency and PR cards occur weekly.
2. What’s the processing time for citizenship applications?
- Citizenship grants currently take 7 months to process.
3. How long do PR cards take to process?
- New PR cards are processed in 21 days, while renewals take 37 days.
4. What are the wait times for spousal sponsorship applications?
- Spousal sponsorship applications (outside Canada, non-Quebec) take 10 months.
5. What affects processing times?
- Document completeness, case complexity, and submission method can all impact processing times.
6. Where can I check the most updated processing times?
- Visit the official IRCC website.
For the latest details, consult the official IRCC portal to keep your immigration plans on track.