IRCC November processing times: sharp delays for some categories — AIP, CEC and visitor visas hit hardest
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated its published processing-time estimates for November and several application types now face notable slowdowns. The most dramatic change is for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), whose estimated decision time has jumped by roughly 185% since early October. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and a number of visitor-visa streams also show meaningful increases. At the same time, some categories (certain study permit streams and in-country visitor applications) have seen smaller improvements.
This article explains what moved, why it matters, and — most importantly — what applicants should do right now to reduce risk and prepare while IRCC works through the backlog.
Snapshot — what changed most (November vs. Oct. 1, 2025)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 37 months (previously 13 months) — increase of 24 months.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 7 months (previously 6 months) — +1 month.
- Express Entry — FSWP: 6 months (previously 5 months) — +1 month.
- PNP (non-Express Entry / base): 16 months (previously 19 months) — slight improvement from very high levels; Express Entry-aligned PNP now estimated at 6 months (previously 7 months).
- Family sponsorship — Parents & Grandparents (outside Quebec): 42 months (previously 26 months) — large increase.
- Spouse/Cohabiting partner (in Canada): 20–24 months (varies by intended residence) — minor changes.
- Visitor visas (selected countries): big increases for India and Pakistan (India: 103 days vs. 75 days; Pakistan: 72 days vs. 46 days).
- Work permits (in Canada): 227 days (previously 196 days) — noticeable slowdown for in-Canada applications.
- Study permits (in Canada): improved in some channels but extension processing remains long (182 days for extensions).
- Citizenship grant: 13 months (unchanged).
Why processing times have moved
IRCC’s published processing-time estimates reflect the balance between incoming application volumes, staffing capacity, complexity of files, and program priorities. Several factors likely contributed to the November shifts:
- Inventory and backlog growth: Certain streams (AIP, PGP) have accumulated large inventories that push projected finalization timelines far beyond service standards.
- Policy and program changes: New and modified programs (temporary-to-permanent initiatives, shifting PNP quotas) can redirect resources and produce spikes in particular file types.
- Complex or documentation-heavy files: Family class and AIP files often require extensive medical, police and settlement assessments that slow adjudication.
- Seasonal or operational staffing pressures: Peaks in new filings and operational constraints (e.g., training, reallocation) can extend estimated timelines.
- Higher scrutiny / compliance checks: Programs under greater integrity review or with eligibility complexities require additional verification and thus more processing time per file.
What applicants should know (impact)
- AIP applicants face the largest risk of long waits. Plan settlement timing and employment/start-date expectations accordingly.
- In-Canada work and study permit holders should expect longer waits to extend or change conditions. Avoid gaps in status — apply early and maintain supporting documentation.
- Family sponsors (parents & grandparents) should anticipate multi-year waits. If travel or urgent family needs exist, explore temporary visitor options while sponsorship is pending.
- Visitors from India and Pakistan should budget extra processing time before travel plans. Do not book non-refundable travel until the visa is issued.
- Express Entry and many PNP files remain within or near service standards for enhanced/Express Entry streams (around six months), but non-Express Entry PNP streams continue to be lengthy (up to 16 months).
Practical steps applicants should take now
- Check current IRCC processing-time pages regularly (estimates update frequently). Use the latest estimate when planning travel, settlement, or employment start dates.
- File early and provide complete documentation at submission to avoid delays from requests for additional evidence.
- Keep proof of status and work/ study authorization up to date — if a permit is expiring, apply for extension well before expiry to reduce risk of losing status.
- If you need urgent entry or a faster decision, consider legal remedies (for example, temporary resident permits) and consult a qualified immigration professional.
- For sponsors: Prepare police checks, medicals, and proof-of-relationship documents in advance — gathering these can take weeks.
- Stay organized: maintain a digital and physical file with originals and certified copies of all supporting documents; this speeds responses to IRCC requests.
Frequently asked questions (brief)
Q — Are these processing times guarantees?
A — No. IRCC’s times are estimates (80% completion target). Some files will be decided faster, others slower depending on complexity.
Q — Should I re-file if my application is delayed?
A — Usually no — re-filing can create duplication and may not improve timelines. Consult an advisor before submitting a new application for the same purpose.
Q — Can I request expedited processing?
A — Only in limited, exceptional circumstances. Humanitarian or urgent work reasons may qualify, but decisions remain discretionary.
Bottom line
November’s IRCC processing-time update is a reminder that timelines can change quickly. The AIP and some family-class streams are experiencing substantial delays, while certain economic streams remain closer to target service standards. Applicants should act early, be thorough with documentation, and get professional guidance for time-sensitive matters.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
