Canada Immigration Processing Times For February 2025

Canada's immigration system is always changing, and staying updated on processing times is important for those planning to move. The latest updates from February 5, 2025, give insight into how long different applications take, helping applicants plan better.

Why Processing Times Matter

Knowing the current processing times can help applicants:

• Plan their move – Understanding how long applications take can help people prepare for work, school, or family reunification.
• Avoid delays – Applications can take longer due to high volumes, so knowing the timeline helps manage expectations.
• Submit complete applications – Making sure all documents are in order can speed up processing.

How Processing Times Are Calculated

Canada Immigration authorities estimate processing times based on how long it takes to complete 80% of applications. Some factors that affect processing include:

• Completeness of applications – Missing documents can delay the process.
• Case complexity – Some applications need more detailed reviews.
• Application volume – Higher demand can increase wait times.

Citizenship Applications

• Citizenship grant – 8 months (1 month longer than January).
• Citizenship certificate – 3 months (unchanged).
• Renouncing citizenship – 12 months (4 months shorter).
• Search of citizenship records – 16 months (9 months longer).

Permanent Resident (PR) Card Processing

• New PR cards – 24 days (2 days faster).
• PR card renewal – 17 days (1 day faster).

Family Sponsorship Processing

• Spouse/Common-law partner (outside Canada) – 10 months (unchanged).
• Spouse/Common-law partner (inside Canada) – 28 months (4 months longer).
• Parents/Grandparents sponsorship – 24 months (outside Quebec), 48 months (Quebec).

Economic Immigration Processing

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – 5 months.
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) – 6 months.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – 6 months (Express Entry), 21 months (non-Express Entry).
• Quebec Skilled Workers – 9 months.
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) – 9 months.
• Start-Up Visa – 40 months (1 month longer).

Temporary Residency Processing

• Visitor visa (outside Canada) – Processing times vary by country:
  • India – 106 days (2 days longer).
  • United States – 28 days (4 days longer).
  • Nigeria – 153 days (1 day shorter).
  • Pakistan – 17 days (1 day shorter).
  • Philippines – 18 days (4 days shorter).
• Study permit (outside Canada) – 5 to 15 weeks, depending on the country.
• Work permit (outside Canada) – 5 to 20 weeks.
• Work permit (inside Canada, including extensions) – 120 days (5 days shorter).

Other Temporary Residency Programs

• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) – 5 minutes.
• International Experience Canada (IEC) – 5 weeks (3 weeks shorter).
• Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) – 8 days.

Final Thoughts

Canada's immigration processing times vary based on the type of application and demand. Citizenship applications take about 8 months, PR card renewals take 17 days, and spousal sponsorship takes 10-36 months. Economic immigration programs range from 5 to 40 months, while temporary residency processing depends on the applicant’s location. Keeping track of updates helps applicants plan their journey effectively.