How can I improve the chances that the processing of my application is not delayed?

A primary goal for all Canadian newcomers is to find their way to Canada as fast as possible.

Unfortunately, some newcomers face application processing delays that slow down their journey to Canada.

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration

While it is impossible to guarantee that your immigration application will not face processing delays, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) lists eight steps that applicants can take – four before they apply and four after they apply – to improve the odds that their application avoids the pitfalls that can cause delayed processing during this important stage of the newcomer journey.

Before you apply

Fill and sign: Properly completing all application forms and ensuring that you include signatures in all required places can help make sure that the processing of your application is not delayed. Failure to do so may require IRCC to return your application to you.

Document checklist: IRCC may return your application if it does not include all the documents marked as required on the document checklist. Avoid potential processing delays by reviewing this checklist and including all required documents before submitting your application.

Fee payment and payment receipt: Ensure that you pay all your required fees and include the receipt proving your payments were made in your submission to IRCC.

Right of Permanent Residence (RPR) fee: The RPR fee does not need to be paid when applying for permanent residence but must be paid at some point before you can officially become a permanent resident of Canada. For that reason, IRCC recommends that you pay this fee either upfront or as soon as you receive a letter asking for it, as this will help avoid delays.

*As of April 30, 2024, the RPR fee, as well as other Canadian permanent residence fees, have increased. The RPR fee is now $575 CAD, up from $515 CAD.

After you apply

Linking paper applications to online IRCC account: Depending on your application type, you may be able to link your paper applications to your online IRCC account. This will allow you, if eligible, to get up-to-date information regarding the status of your applications.

Maintaining up-to-date contact information: This will help you ensure that IRCC can contact you in a timely manner should the department require more information regarding some part of your application.

Reporting relevant changes through IRCC’s webform: Promptly reporting relevant changes that may impact your application – such as a birth, marriage or change in employment – will help avoid future application processing delays. IRCC can be contacted about such changes via the department’s webform here.

Answer IRCC promptly when contacted: IRCC reminds you to answer the department quickly and ensure you follow the instructions given to you when contacted for more information or required documents. This will help avoid future processing delays with your application.

Discover if You Are Eligible for Canadian Immigration