Avoiding IRCC Backlogs and Processing Delays: A Guide for Immigrants in Canada
Canada's immigration system has been under severe pressure to manage backlogs and processing delays. However, in recent months, a glimmer of light has developed.
Overall, backlogs have been shrinking steadily from over 1,056,000 in October 2024, down to 892,100 in January 2025, and further to 760,200 by April 2025. This marks a 24% reduction over five months, averaging a monthly drop between 5–8%. However, June 2025 saw a reversal as backlogs climbed to 842,800, reflecting a 5% uptick. This increase suggests new surges in permanent residency and temporary residency streams. Permanent Resident (PR) delays remain high. As of July 2025, nearly 50% of PR applications were past service standards, with only around 50% processed on time.
Meanwhile, LMIA processing, a key step for many work permit holders, has slowed down dramatically, increasing from 58 business days in September 2023 to 165 days by March 2025. These delays are causing real hardship, including loss of work status and even healthcare access in some heartbreaking cases.
Current Statistics
Stream Backlog Highlights
Permanent Residence (PR) 46% backlog (415,800 applications in June)
Express Entry ~20% delayed; cluster remains tight
PNP (Express Entry) Around 48–49% backlog; one of the worst-hit streams
Visitor Visas ~65% backlogged vs 50% target
Study Permits ~45% delayed vs 24% target
Work Permits 34% backlog—still the highest performance among temporary permits
Citizenship Applications ~18% backlogged, under its 20% threshold
Steps to Avoid Immigration Backlogs
Submit Thorough, Flawless Applications: Ensure all forms are current, complete, and accurate. Incomplete or incorrect submissions are the top cause of refusals and delays
Respond Rapidly to IRCC Requests: Stay on top of your IRCC account or portal. A swift response to supplemental documents or requests can make the difference between timely processing and unnecessary delay
Monitor Your Application Status Vigilantly: Use the IRCC online tracking tools (“My Account” or GCKey) to stay informed on status updates and potential requests
Plan Ahead and Have Contingencies: Expect delays, especially for PR through Express Entry or PNP, which are often past their service timeframes. Notify schools or employers about possible late processing, and consider temporary accommodations.
Seek Professional Guidance Early: Immigration law is complex and dynamic. Consulting with a trusted immigration lawyer or RCIC early on can help you avoid pitfalls and optimise application success
Why Acting Smart Matters
Avoid status lapses: Growing backlog delays can trip individuals into temporary status loss, cutting off access to healthcare and employment.
Minimize anxiety and disruption: Delays stress families and careers; reducing the chance of such delays brings peace of mind.
Meet Canada’s aspirational standards: While IRCC targets to process 80% of applications within service timeframes, many are straining toward that mark, and yours could slip backwards if not handled properly.
✅ When You Need Expert Help
At Ayodele Law, we specialize in navigating Canada’s immigration system and ensuring your application is submitted correctly, efficiently, and strategically:
We audit your documents to eliminate errors.
We help you respond promptly to IRCC requests.
We guide you through timing and planning to mitigate the impact of system-wide delays.
Delays are more than just “waiting”; they can mean lost jobs, missed enrollment, and emotional tolls. But with smart preparation and trusted legal support, you don’t have to face them alone.
📞Book a consultation today to give your application the best possible chance of success
