Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve – and in 2025, one of the biggest challenges facing applicants is the sharp increase in IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) processing times. The government’s new online processing tool, updated earlier this month, now provides more personalized timelines based on the date of submission. However, this transparency also highlights a serious concern: many applications are taking significantly longer than before.
Massive Delays Across Key Immigration Programs
The data shows steep increases across multiple programs. The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), for instance, has jumped from 13 months to 37 months, representing an increase of 185% in just a few weeks. Over 13,000 applications remain pending, leaving many endorsed workers in a difficult position as their employer-specific work permits near expiration. Since AIP applicants are not eligible for Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWPs), many may face lapses in their work authorization before their permanent residency (PR) applications are finalized.
The Start-Up Visa (SUV) program – designed to attract global entrepreneurs – has been hit even harder. The processing time has more than doubled, from 53 months to over 10 years, a 126% increase. Many innovative founders who arrive in Canada on temporary work permits are now stuck waiting years for their PR, delaying their business growth and integration.
Similarly, the Federal Self-Employed Persons Program, targeting cultural and athletic professionals, now exceeds 10 years of processing time. The program itself remains paused until 2027, further adding to the backlog.
Citizenship and Refugee Applications Also Affected
The surge is not limited to economic immigration pathways. Citizenship applications have risen from 7 months to 13 months since January 2025 – an 86% increase in under a year. This means many permanent residents eligible for citizenship will face nearly double the wait before they can take their oath and officially become Canadians.
Refugee and humanitarian cases have also seen record delays. The processing time for Convention refugees outside Quebec rose from 73 months to 99 months – over eight years. Humanitarian and compassionate applications now average 10 years or more, reflecting one of the largest jumps among all immigration categories.
Why Are Processing Times Increasing?
Several factors contribute to these delays. First, IRCC continues to handle a significant volume of applications, even as intake caps are tightened across various programs. Second, while the new processing tool offers more accuracy, it also exposes the real wait times that were previously averaged out or understated. Operational bottlenecks, limited staffing, and the complex nature of background checks and verifications all add to the backlog.
Moreover, global events and shifting immigration priorities – such as refugee crises, international student policy changes, and regional pilot programs – have further stretched IRCC’s processing capacity.
The Human Impact of Long Waits
These extended processing times have real-life consequences. Skilled workers and entrepreneurs risk losing work authorization before PR approval. Families face delays in reunification, and individuals seeking citizenship or refugee protection endure prolonged uncertainty. For many, the delays disrupt career plans, education pathways, and long-term settlement goals in Canada.
For businesses, especially in Atlantic provinces and start-up ecosystems, the impact is equally severe. Employers face talent gaps as international hires wait years to transition to permanent status, undermining both retention and productivity.
How Guide Me Immigration Can Help
While applicants cannot control IRCC’s internal timelines, they can take proactive steps to safeguard their status and minimize risk. At Guide Me Immigration, our consultants help you:
✅ Review your current immigration pathway and identify alternative or faster options
✅ Prepare complete and error-free applications to avoid additional delays
✅ Maintain valid status through extensions or secondary permits where possible
✅ Stay informed about provincial measures, such as New Brunswick’s temporary work permit solutions for AIP candidates
Our team closely monitors IRCC updates and helps clients adapt their strategies to changing processing realities. Whether you’re an AIP applicant, start-up founder, self-employed artist, or future citizen, planning ahead can make all the difference in keeping your immigration goals on track.
Moving Forward
While the rise in processing times may seem discouraging, it also reflects Canada’s continued global appeal as a destination for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and families. The demand remains high – and with proper guidance, applicants can still navigate the system successfully.
If you’re affected by these delays or unsure how to proceed, Guide Me Immigration is here to help you plan smartly, stay status-safe, and reach your Canadian dream with confidence.
Book your consultation today to explore your options and get personalized advice for your situation.
