Altec News | Canada’s Immigration Backlog Surpasses 1 Million: What It Means for Applicants and How to Navigate It

As of July 2024, the Canadian immigration system is facing unprecedented challenges, with more than 1 million applications currently backlogged. For aspiring immigrants and residents, this situation poses considerable uncertainty, affecting their ability to work, study, or reunite with family in Canada. This article examines the extent of the backlog, the key factors contributing to it, and practical advice for navigating this complicated landscape.

The Scope of the Problem: Over 1 Million Applications in Backlog

The latest data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reveals that of the 2.36 million applications in their inventory, more than 1 million are backlogged. Breaking this down, the backlog impacts various types of applications:

• Permanent Residence: Out of 766,200 applications, 299,000 are backlogged.

• Temporary Residence: Out of 1,362,300 applications, 644,400 are backlogged.

• Citizenship: 39,000 applications out of 232,500 remain backlogged.

This backlog represents nearly half of all applications in IRCC’s inventory, creating significant delays across nearly all categories.

Implications for Permanent Residence Applicants

For individuals seeking permanent residence (PR) in Canada through programs like Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and family sponsorship, delays in processing can disrupt carefully laid plans. Currently, the PR application backlog includes the following:

• Express Entry: About 17% of these applications are backlogged, slightly above IRCC’s forecasted goal.

• Provincial Nominee Program: 23% of applications are backlogged, representing a challenge for provinces aiming to meet local economic needs.

• Family Sponsorship: While IRCC predicted a 15% backlog for family sponsorship applications, the current figure is 14%, which, though slightly better than expected, still impacts thousands of families waiting to reunite.

With permanent residence applications, delays can mean postponing job opportunities, adjusting or extending temporary status, and making significant life changes based on uncertain timelines.

Challenges for Temporary Residence Applicants

The backlog is particularly severe for temporary residence applications, with nearly half of these applications—over 644,000—stuck in the system. The backlog affects various types of temporary applications:

• Visitor Visas: 64% of visitor visa applications are backlogged, meaning that tourists, business travelers, and those looking to visit family face long wait times.

• Study Permits: 24% of study permits are delayed, even though Canada remains a popular destination for international students. IRCC has paused processing on some study permits and introduced measures to curb fraudulent applications, which may add additional steps for applicants.

• Work Permits: 43% of work permits are backlogged, posing challenges for employers relying on international talent and for workers needing employment authorization.

The backlog in temporary applications has far-reaching effects. For example, students might miss enrollment deadlines, employees may need to delay or cancel job start dates, and visitors may have to put off or cancel travel plans entirely.

What Causes the Backlog? A Complex Web of Factors

The current backlog is a product of several converging issues. According to IRCC, the backlog in 2022, one of the highest post-pandemic levels, stemmed from multiple factors:

1. Global Crises and Health Pandemic: COVID-19 disrupted global immigration processes, creating a backlog that IRCC has been working to address since.

2. Staffing Shortages: A shortage of staff across IRCC offices has hindered their ability to manage large volumes of applications, with international offices particularly impacted.

3. Shifts in Resource Allocation: Priority shifting towards certain types of applications, such as essential workers during the pandemic, has meant delays in other categories.

4. Introduction of New Policies and Procedures: Recent measures, including limits on the number of processed study permits and the introduction of the Provincial Assurance Letter (PAL) system, have created additional layers in the application process.

The cumulative impact of these factors is substantial, resulting in extended processing times and a growing number of applicants waiting for a decision.

What IRCC Is Doing to Reduce the Backlog

IRCC has introduced various measures to curb the backlog and enhance processing efficiency:

• Priority Processing for Critical Sectors: To meet economic and social needs, IRCC has prioritized applications for workers in sectors like healthcare and agriculture, aiming to expedite approvals for occupations deemed critical.

• Extending Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Validity: In response to delays, IRCC extended PGWP validity for master’s graduates from two to three years, giving recent graduates more time to work and potentially transition to PR status.

• Soft Cap on Temporary Residents: Looking ahead, IRCC plans to introduce a “soft cap” to reduce the volume of new temporary resident applications by 5% below current levels. This strategy will be detailed in the immigration levels plan, expected later this year.

While these measures may alleviate some pressure, their implementation is gradual and may not produce immediate results. For applicants currently in the system, delays are likely to persist, requiring careful planning and adaptability.

Navigating the Backlog: Practical Advice for Applicants

Given the ongoing delays, applicants can take proactive steps to better manage the uncertainty:

1. Stay Informed and Updated: IRCC frequently updates processing times for different types of applications. Checking these regularly can help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.

2. Consider Alternative Immigration Pathways: Programs like the C11 Entrepreneur Work Visa and the ICT (Intra-Company Transfer) Executive Transfer may provide alternative routes with fewer delays. Consulting with an immigration expert can help identify the best options for your situation.

3. Ensure Complete and Accurate Submissions: Missing documents or incomplete applications can result in additional delays. Double-check your application package and consider working with a consultant to ensure accuracy.

4. Contact IRCC if Necessary: If your application is significantly delayed and outside typical processing times, you may contact IRCC for an update. However, responses may be slow due to the high volume of inquiries.

5. Seek Professional Guidance: With policies and processing times subject to change, immigration consultants can provide up-to-date information, help you explore alternative options, and guide you through the application process.

6. Plan for Contingencies: Given that IRCC aims to process 80% of applications within service standards, a portion will inevitably face extended wait times. Have backup plans in place to accommodate potential delays, such as extending your current status or securing temporary residence while awaiting PR approval.

How Altec Global Can Help

Navigating Canada’s immigration system amid unprecedented backlogs is a challenge that requires strategic planning and careful guidance. Altec Global’s experienced team can help you:

• Assess Your Application: We analyze your situation to identify potential issues in your application, helping you avoid errors that could lead to delays.

• Explore Alternative Pathways: Our team will work with you to identify immigration pathways that best suit your timeline and goals.

• Expedite the Process Where Possible: Through thorough preparation and strategic advice, we help expedite applications that may otherwise encounter unnecessary delays.

• Offer Ongoing Support: From study permits and work visas to permanent residence and family reunification, our team is here to assist every step of the way.

Conclusion

Canada remains a top destination for immigrants, students, and international workers. However, with more than 1 million applications backlogged, applicants face unprecedented waiting times and uncertainty. While IRCC is making efforts to address these delays, those affected by the backlog can take proactive steps to navigate the challenges ahead.

At Altec Global, we understand the complexities of the Canadian immigration system and are dedicated to helping applicants overcome these obstacles. Whether you’re waiting for your PR application, navigating temporary residence delays, or seeking citizenship, our team is here to guide you through the process and help make your Canadian dream a reality.

📧 For personalized guidance on managing your application amid the IRCC backlog, reach out to us today.