Canadian Immigration Processing Times 2026

How long do IRCC applications take in 2026?

Processing times vary by visa type. In 2026, Express Entry permanent residence applications take approximately 6–8 weeks. Study permits take 6–18 weeks depending on the country of origin. Work permits range from 5–19 weeks. Spousal sponsorship takes 9–20 weeks. Check individual visa type pages for the latest times.

Where does IRCC processing time data come from?

IRCCTracker.ca sources all processing time data directly from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) via canada.ca. Data is updated weekly to reflect the latest published figures.

What is IRCC?

IRCC stands for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. It is the federal government department responsible for processing immigration, refugee, and citizenship applications in Canada.

Can I check the status of my IRCC application?

Yes. You can check your IRCC application status online at canada.ca using your application number and date of birth. IRCCTracker.ca shows general processing time benchmarks but does not have access to individual application data.

What should I do if my application is taking longer than the published processing time?

If your application has exceeded the standard processing time, you may be able to contact IRCC via their web form or speak with an immigration lawyer. A licensed Canadian immigration lawyer can review your file and advise on next steps — IRCCTracker.ca offers a free 15-minute legal consultation.