If you’re curious about Canada’s immigration scene, you’re not alone! As of May 31, there are 802,000 applications stuck in a backlog at Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). That’s a 5.5% increase from April, when 760,200 applications were left waiting.

This spike in applications marks the first increase since late October 2024, making it vital to stay up-to-date on how this affects your plans to move to Canada.

So, what exactly is a backlog? It happens when applications take longer to process than promised. For example, Express Entry applications should ideally be processed within six months. If it takes longer, it ends up in the backlog.

In total, IRCC is juggling 2,117,800 applications, but about 1,315,800 are moving along within the expected timeframes. The goal is to handle 80% of applications within these service standards, with more complicated cases taking longer.

Curious about the kinds of applications waiting? As of April 30, there were 897,900 for permanent residence, with 402,400 in backlog. The family sponsorship applications seem to be doing better, maintaining a stable backlog of around 14%.

If you’re considering applying, it’s wise to consult with an experienced immigration representative who can navigate these waters with you. Staying informed can make all the difference!