The Canada Immigration backlog has increased by approximately 16% (125,900) since July 31, 2023, according to the latest official data from the IRCC, which was updated on October 24, 2023.
As of September 30, 2023, the total immigration backlog stands at 928,500 applications, reflecting a 9.92% increase compared to the previous month.
A total of 2,194,900 applications were in processing as of September 30, 2023.
However, the total number of immigration and visa applications currently in processing has decreased by 79,700 compared to two months ago.
These backlog statistics highlight that IRCC processing has been relatively slow since July 2023, resulting in a build-up of applications that exceed service standards.
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Latest Immigration Backlog As of September 30, 2023
Why is the Backlog Increasing?
Several factors contribute to the creation of immigration backlogs in Canada:
- Increased Application Volume: A surge in the number of temporary residency applications like study permits, work permits, and visitor/tourist visas, has led to a backlog.
- Leadership Changes: The appointment of a new Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, on July 26, 2023, might have played a role in the slowdown.
All Canada Immigration Backlog Updates in 2023
IRCC’s Efforts to Manage the Backlog
The IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) is actively working to address the backlog and improve processing times. Here’s what you need to know:
- Service Standards: The IRCC aims to process 80% of applications within their specified service standards. This goal helps prevent applications from becoming part of the backlog.
- Ongoing Efforts: The department continues to dedicate resources and efforts to reduce the backlog. They are committed to enhancing their processing efficiency.
What Does This Mean for You?
With the backlog on the rise, you might wonder what implications it has for your immigration plans. Here’s what you need to know:
- Expect Delays: If you’ve applied for immigration, especially in the temporary residency categories, it’s essential to expect longer processing times.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the status of your application on the official IRCC website. This can help you keep track of your application’s progress and any updates from the immigration authorities.
- Be Patient: Understand that the backlog is a temporary situation, and authorities are actively working to address it. While it might cause delays in your plans, the situation will likely improve over time.
What is an Immigration Backlog?
An immigration backlog is a collection of immigration and visa applications that have exceeded the processing time set by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) service standards.
In simple terms, it’s a delay in processing your application beyond the expected timeframe.
If a specific type of application typically takes a year to process, and it takes longer than that, it becomes part of the backlog.
