How Long Does it Take to Get Canada Permanent Residency: 5 Factors That Can Affect Your Processing Time

If you’re seeking permanent residency in Canada, one of the most pressing questions you may have is: how long does it take to get Canada permanent residency?

The waiting period can be a significant source of stress as you wait to know if your application has been approved. But, understanding how long it takes to get Canada permanent residency and the factors that can affect processing times can help you better navigate the process.

In this article, we’ll explain the average processing times and examine five key factors that can affect how quickly your application is processed. This will help you anticipate potential delays and take steps to ensure your application is processed as smoothly as possible.

Average Processing Times for Canadian Permanent Residence

How many months it takes to process permanent residence in Canada can vary depending on the type of program you apply through and other influencing factors. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) establishes service standards for each type of application, which provide an estimated time for processing. These service standards are based on the target of processing most applications within a certain timeframe.

Here are some examples of the average processing times for specific Canada permanent resident visas:

• Express Entry Programs (Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Canadian Experience Class): The standard processing time for Express Entry is six months for most applications.
• Family Sponsorship: Processing times can range from 12 to 24 months, depending on the country where the sponsored person resides.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Generally take about 12 to 18 months, though this can vary by province.

It's important to remember that these are only estimates, and individual cases may take shorter or longer due to various factors, which we’ll discuss below.

Factors That Affect Canada Permanent Residency Processing Times

The processing time for your Canadian permanent residency application is influenced by multiple factors. While some of these factors are beyond your control, understanding them can help you better prepare and, in some cases, mitigate potential delays.

1. The Type of Application

The type of permanent residency program you apply for will significantly impact processing time. For example, Express Entry applications generally have a shorter processing time compared to other pathways due to the streamlined online process. In contrast, programs such as the Family Sponsorship or Provincial Nominee Programs may take longer because they have additional requirements and involve extra steps and documentation in the application process, such as the need for an assessment of your sponsor or provincial approval.

Tips to Mitigate Delays:

• Review your eligibility for various programs and choose the one with the shortest processing time that you qualify for. If you’re uncertain, consider seeking professional assistance such as CanDo’s immigration consultants to determine the best program for your situation.
• Ensure your profile is complete and accurate before submitting it, as errors can cause delays.

2. The Completeness of Your Application

A complete application package is crucial for faster Canada PR visa processing. Missing documents, incomplete forms, or errors in your submission can lead to delays or even a refusal. IRCC may request additional documents or corrections, which can add weeks or months to the processing time.

Tips to Mitigate Delays:

• Double-check all documents before submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Provide certified translations for documents that are not in English or French.
• Follow IRCC guidelines carefully to avoid common mistakes.
• If possible, submit additional supporting documents that strengthen your application.
• If you know of any changes in your situation that might affect your application (e.g., change of address, marital status), inform IRCC promptly.

3. The IRCC Workload and Backlog

IRCC’s processing times can also be affected by their current workload and backlog. For example, during high application periods or following major events that lead to office closures (such as the COVID-19 pandemic or significant holiday periods), processing times may be significantly longer than the average estimates.

Tips to Mitigate Delays:

• Visit the IRCC website regularly to stay updated on any processing delays, changes, or current backlogs.
• Prepare early, gather documents, and prepare your application well in advance to avoid submitting during peak times.

4. Your Country of Residence

The country you are residing in when you apply can impact the processing time for your Canadian permanent residency application. Processing centres in certain countries may experience higher volumes of applications, which can result in longer wait times. Additionally, political or economic instability in certain regions may cause further delays.

Tips to Mitigate Delays:

• Keep an eye on regional processing times and regularly check the processing times for your region on the IRCC website to stay informed about possible delays.
• If you have multiple residency options, consider submitting your application from a country with lower processing volumes.
• Ensure all documents from your country of residence are properly translated, authenticated, or apostilled if required.

5. Your Background and Document Verification

IRCC conducts thorough background checks and document verification as part of the permanent residency process. If your background includes complex factors such as multiple countries of residence, frequent travel, military service, or a criminal record, additional time may be required to complete the verification process.

Tips to Mitigate Delays:

• Be transparent about your history and disclose any potential issues upfront, providing explanations or documentation when needed.
• Ensure that police clearances and other background or security checks are submitted promptly, especially if you've lived in multiple countries.
• If IRCC asks for more information or documentation, respond promptly to avoid further delays.

By preparing a complete and accurate application, staying informed on current processing times, and being proactive in addressing potential issues, you can reduce the risk of delays in your application.

How CanDo Immigration Can Help You Achieve Your Dream of Permanent Residence in Canada

If you need assistance with your Canadian permanent resident application, CanDo Immigration is here to help. Our experienced immigration consultants understand the complexities of the Canadian immigration process and can guide you through each step with confidence and ease. We’ll help you determine which permanent residency path is right for you, prepare a thorough and accurate application, stay up to date on the latest processing times, and address any issues that may arise.

Contact us today to discuss your unique situation and take the first step toward your Canadian immigration journey.