In March 2026, IRCC published updated backlog percentages and processing time trends for key immigration programs, including Express Entry and family sponsorships. The data shows volatility in backlog levels and processing times, especially for study and work permits. IRCC emphasizes that processing times are estimates, often based on historical data or forward-looking models, and applicants should plan with buffers and ensure application completeness.

• IRCC publishes backlog percentages and processing time estimates for major immigration programs, with some streams now using forward-looking estimates since May 1, 2024.
• Backlog percentages for federal high-skilled (Express Entry) programs fluctuated between 20% and 32% from July to December 2025, indicating operational volatility.
• Processing times for study and work permits showed significant weekly fluctuations in late February 2026, with some countries experiencing sharp increases.
• IRCC processing times are based on how long it took to process 80% of applications and run from receipt of a complete application to decision.
• Applicants are advised to plan conservatively, submitting complete applications early and allowing for processing time variability.
• Forward-looking processing times apply to Express Entry-managed programs (CEC, FSW, PNP) and family/citizenship lines.
• Documentation requirements, such as PAL/TAL for international students, remain important and can affect processing times.

• Since May 1, 2024, IRCC uses forward-looking processing time estimates for Express Entry-managed programs and family/citizenship applications.
• IRCC emphasizes that processing times are estimates, not guarantees, and applicants should plan accordingly.

• Applicants to federal high-skilled immigration programs including Express Entry (CEC, FSW, PNP).
• International students applying for study permits.
• Temporary workers applying for work permits.
• Families sponsoring spouses, partners, and children outside Quebec.

• Submit complete applications early to avoid delays.
• Ensure all required documentation is included, especially for international students (PAL/TAL requirements).
• Monitor IRCC processing time updates but plan with buffers due to volatility.

• May 1, 2024: Forward-looking processing times introduced for certain programs.
• July to December 2025: Backlog percentage data for federal high-skilled programs.
• February 2026: Weekly processing time snapshots showing volatility.

• https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp
• https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
• https://www.cicnews.com/2026/02/canadian-immigration-processing-times-visitor-visas-see-improvements-while-certain-study-permit-applications-surge-0272084.html