Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released updated processing times for a wide range of applications, including permanent residence (PR) visas, temporary visas, and citizenship requests. The update, issued September 24, 2025, offers applicants a clearer picture of expected timelines as Canada continues to modernize its immigration system with advanced technologies.
Key Updates in Processing Times
The IRCC emphasized that the figures represent median processing times and may vary depending on application volume, completeness of documentation, and other factors. Applicants are strongly advised to ensure their files are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Highlights include:
- Citizenship Applications
- Grant of Citizenship: 11 months
- Renunciation: 10 months
- Search of Records: 13 months
- Permanent Resident (PR) Cards
- New PR Cards: 46 days
- Renewals/Replacements: 33 days
- Family Sponsorships
- Spouse/Common-Law (Outside Canada – Non-Quebec): 15 months
- Spouse/Common-Law (Outside Canada – Quebec): 41 months
- Spouse/Common-Law (Inside Canada – Non-Quebec): 23 months
- Spouse/Common-Law (Inside Canada – Quebec): 38 months
- Economic Class Immigration
- Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry): 5 months
- Federal Skilled Worker (Express Entry): 6 months
- Provincial Nominee Program (Express Entry): 8 months
- Non-Express Entry PNP: 19 months
- Atlantic Immigration Program: 13 months
- Start-Up Visa: 53 months
- Temporary Visas (India-specific examples)
- Visitor Visa: 4 weeks
- Super Visa: 143 days
- Work Permit: 8 weeks
IRCC noted that Express Entry streams remain the fastest economic pathway, while Start-Up Visa applicants face the longest waits at over four years. Temporary visas vary significantly by country, with India-specific timelines highlighted in the update.
Applicants are reminded that Quebec sponsorship applications continue to have longer timelines than other provinces. PR card renewals are being processed more quickly than new card issuances.
IRCC recommends applicants regularly check official timelines and consider fast-track options where available, while ensuring complete and accurate submissions to minimize delays.