June 17, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

Canada keeps updating its immigration rules, and the latest buzz is about a change that could work in your favour especially if you work in a high-paying field. IRCC just finished asking the public what they think about a possible update to Express Entry, and one idea has people talking: giving extra CRS points based on what your occupation typically pays.

In plain terms, 37 jobs could soon come with a built-in CRS boost which will be separate from your language score, education, or how long you’ve worked. If your job is on that list, your chances of getting an invitation for Canadian permanent residence could go up significantly.

Now, nothing is set in stone yet. This is still a proposal being worked through, not a rule you need to follow today. But knowing what’s coming before it arrives? That’s always a good place to be.

So, how would this work?

IRCC is considering a new CRS factor that rewards candidates who have Canadian work experience or a valid job offer – in what they’re calling “high-wage occupations.” The key benchmark is Canada’s national median hourly wage, which Statistics Canada pegs at $30.77.

Under the proposal, occupations would fall into one of three tiers based on how far their median wage sits above that national figure:

  • Tier 1 (2.0x): Occupations with a median wage of at least $61.54/hour – the highest bonus
  • Tier 2 (1.5x): Occupations reaching at least $46.16/hour – a mid-level advantage
  • Tier 3 (1.3x): Occupations at or above $40.00/hour – a smaller but still meaningful boost

One important detail: this isn’t about what you personally earn. It’s about what the typical worker in your occupation makes nationally. That means two people in the same role, whether they’re in Toronto or a smaller city, would receive the same CRS treatment regardless of their individual pay.

IRCC says it designed the system this way deliberately to prevent salary inflation or manipulation on applications.

The 6 Top-Tier Occupations (2.0x the National Median)

Six occupations sit at the highest tier, and four of them are in medicine. Surgical specialists top the list at $201.52/hour – more than six times the national median which tells you a lot about how heavily IRCC is prioritizing healthcare talent.

Occupation NOC Category Median Hourly Wage Most Recent Category CRS Cut-off
Specialists in surgery 31101 Healthcare $201.52 467 / 169
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine 31100 Healthcare $149.66 467 / 169
General practitioners and family physicians 31102 Healthcare $111.64 467 / 169
Senior managers, financial, communications and other business services 00012 Senior Management $96.15 429
Architecture and science managers 20011 STEM $62.56 N/A
Nurse practitioners 31302 Healthcare $61.54 467

It’s worth noting that physicians already benefit from some of the lowest CRS cut-offs in Express Entry history. Back in February 2026, a draw for physicians with Canadian work experience accepted candidates with scores as low as 169 which is the lowest cut-off the program has ever recorded. Adding a wage-based bonus on top of that would make these roles even more competitive.

The 15 Mid-Tier Occupations (1.5x the National Median)

This group is the most diverse of the three tiers, covering healthcare, engineering, skilled trades, aviation, military, and research roles.

Occupation NOC Category Median Hourly Wage Most Recent Category CRS Cut-off
Veterinarians 31103 Healthcare $60.00 467
University professors and lecturers 41200 Researchers $58.89 N/A
Pharmacists 31120 Healthcare $55.49 467
Commissioned officers of the Canadian Armed Forces 40042 Military $55.03 N/A
Dentists 31110 Healthcare $52.88 467
Psychologists 31200 Healthcare $52.88 467
Air pilots, flight engineers and flying instructors 72600 Transport $52.00 N/A
Electrical and electronics engineers 21310 STEM $50.67 N/A
Contractors and supervisors, oil and gas drilling and services 82021 Trades $50.00 477
Geological engineers 21331 STEM $49.81 N/A
Cybersecurity specialists 21220 STEM $49.52 N/A
Construction managers 70010 Trades $48.72 477
Civil engineers 21300 STEM $48.56 N/A
Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals 31303 Healthcare $46.81 467
Nursing coordinators and supervisors 31300 Healthcare $46.43 467

For candidates already qualifying under category-based draws in healthcare or trades, where CRS cut-offs typically range from 467 to 477 – a wage-based bonus stacked on top could make a real difference in general draws too.

The 16 Entry-Tier Occupations (1.3x the National Median)

The third tier covers 16 occupations, again led by healthcare, but also including teachers, engineers, and transport technicians.

Occupation NOC Category Median Hourly Wage Most Recent Category CRS Cut-off
Physiotherapists 31202 Healthcare $46.15 467
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists 31112 Healthcare $46.15 467
Senior managers, construction, transportation, production and utilities 00015 Senior Management $46.04 429
Occupational therapists 31203 Healthcare $46.00 467
Mechanical engineers 21301 STEM $45.67 N/A
Secondary school teachers 41220 Education $45.67 462
Dental hygienists and dental therapists 32111 Healthcare $45.00 467
Industrial and manufacturing engineers 21321 STEM $44.23 N/A
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers 41221 Education $43.27 462
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301 Healthcare $43.27 467
Industrial electricians 72201 Trades $42.00 477
Medical sonographers 32122 Healthcare $42.00 467
Senior managers, trade, broadcasting and other services 00014 Senior Management $42.38 429
Dietitians and nutritionists 31121 Healthcare $41.63 467
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists 32103 Healthcare $41.00 467
Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors 22313 Transport $40.47 N/A

Registered nurses stand out in this tier – not just because of the numbers, but because they represent one of the largest single occupation groups in the entire Express Entry pool. Any shift in how their CRS score is calculated would have a widespread impact on healthcare draws.

What about everyone else?

There are 89 total occupations eligible for category-based selection draws in Canada. That means 52 of them including nurse aides, home support workers, certain construction trades, and various social service roles – wouldn’t qualify for the wage bonus under this proposal.

These occupations would still benefit from category-based draws at lower CRS cut-offs. But IRCC’s proposal effectively creates a two-speed system within those draws, where some candidates would carry a hidden CRS advantage that others in the exact same draw would not.

A specialist physician and a nurse aide could both receive an invitation through a healthcare draw at CRS 467 but in general Canadian Experience Class (CEC) rounds, the physician would have additional points working in their favour. That’s a gap worth paying attention to.

The Bigger Picture: What IRCC is really after

This wage factor isn’t being introduced in isolation. It’s part of a broader overhaul of how the CRS calculates a candidate’s overall competitiveness. Through its 2026 consultation, IRCC identified strong English proficiency or English-French bilingualism – as the single strongest predictor of long-term economic success for newcomers.

High earnings as a temporary resident came second.

Meanwhile, factors like university-level education, younger age, spousal points, and having a sibling in Canada were classified as weaker predictors of economic outcomes.

That signals a shift. If these reforms are implemented as proposed, the CRS could start putting significantly more weight on language ability and occupation-based scoring, and less on some of the factors many candidates have historically relied on. For someone in one of these 37 high-wage occupations who also holds a strong language score, the combined advantage could be substantial.

The proposal also brings back job offer points

One more piece of this puzzle: IRCC is also floating the idea of restoring job offer points to the CRS, something that was removed back in March 2025. Under the current proposal, those points would only apply to job offers in high-wage occupations. The reasoning is that verifying qualifications in these roles is more straightforward, reducing the risk of fraudulent offers inflating CRS scores.

What you should do right now

To put it simply: don’t make any major immigration decisions based on these proposals just yet. The public consultation period closed in May 2026, but IRCC hasn’t announced how many CRS points each tier would actually be worth. The regulatory process, including publication in the Canada Gazette  could still take many months, and the final rules may look different from what was outlined in the consultation.

What you can do is keep your application as strong as possible under the current system. That means improving language scores, getting your educational credentials properly assessed, and documenting your work experience thoroughly. And if you’re in one of these 37 occupations, it’s worth watching closely because the direction of travel is clear: Canada wants workers in these roles, and is building a system to actively reward them.

 

Your Occupation Could Be Your Biggest Immigration Asset – Let’s Make Sure You’re Using It

Whether you’re a nurse, an engineer, a teacher, a physician, or a skilled tradesperson, understanding how your job fits into Canada’s immigration system can change everything about your strategy. Our team helps clients navigate Express Entry, provincial nomination programs, work permits, postgraduate work permits, spousal sponsorship, visitor visas, super visas, citizenship applications, school admissions, and more. Book a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation today and let’s discuss the clearest path to your Canadian permanent residence.

June 16, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

Something unexpected has been happening to a group of people who thought their Canadian citizenship journey was already over. They had their applications approved, received their citizenship certificates, and in some cases even got a Social Insurance Number and a Canadian passport. Then, on June 13, 2026, emails started landing in inboxes and the news wasn’t good.

Canada’s citizenship department reached out to a number of people, mostly based in the United States, who had recently obtained citizenship certificates under the country’s expanded citizenship-by-descent laws. The message? Their approved citizenship claims were now “under review,” and they were being asked to return their certificates while the government took a second look.

Understandably, this has caused a lot of anxiety. So let’s break down exactly what is going on, why it’s happening, and what people in this situation can do about it.

What does the letter actually say?

The letters reference subsection 26(1) of the Citizenship Regulations, which gives the Registrar of Canadian Citizenship the authority to request that a person hand back their citizenship certificate when there is reason to believe they may not be entitled to it. This is important to note – it is not a revocation of citizenship. It is a review. The government is essentially hitting pause to re-examine the file, and if everything checks out, the certificate gets returned.

Recipients are also given the opportunity to submit additional documents to support their case. So while it’s an uncomfortable situation, it’s not necessarily the end of the road.

Why were these applications flagged?

The government cited two main reasons in these letters.

The first is that the supporting documents submitted did not come from what they call a “source authority” – meaning the original office that created and holds the record, such as a vital statistics office, a civil registry, or a recognized provincial archive. A printout from a genealogy website like Ancestry or FamilySearch, even if it shows the exact same information, does not meet this standard.

The second reason is that where an original document was unavailable, applicants did not include a written explanation or any evidence that they had actually tried to obtain it.

Put simply, many of the people who received these letters are likely Canadian by descent but they just haven’t proven it in the specific way the government requires.

What should you do if you’ve already received one of these letters?

First, don’t panic. The letter will usually spell out exactly what raised concern in your file, and that gives you something concrete to work with.

If your issue is about document sources, focus on getting certified copies directly from the issuing authority and not scans or downloads from genealogy platforms. For each person in your family line, you ideally want at least one official record proving the link to the next generation. Birth certificates are the strongest option; marriage certificates help bridge gaps where surnames change.

If the problem is a missing document, the solution isn’t to ignore the gap, it’s to document it properly. When a records office has no record to provide, they can issue what’s called a “letter of no record,” which is a formal statement confirming the document doesn’t exist in their files. IRCC has a similar process and can issue its own version of this letter. Pairing that with alternative evidence and a written explanation is far more likely to satisfy a reviewing officer than leaving the gap unexplained.

If your physical certificate was already printed, the letter will ask you to return it during the review period. If it was issued electronically, you may not need to send anything back. Either way, keep copies of absolutely everything as the review process tends to take several months.

How to protect yourself from the start

If you haven’t yet submitted a citizenship-by-descent application, this situation is a good reminder of what to get right from the beginning.

Always request documents directly from the original source. A vital statistics office, civil registry, or recognized provincial archive is the right place to go not a genealogy subscription service. Ask for certified copies that are stamped or sealed by the issuing authority.

Make sure your chain of documentation is complete. Every generation in your line of descent needs to be connected by an authoritative record. If there’s a gap – say, a birth from the 1850s where no record exists, don’t leave it undocumented. Write a formal explanation, try to get a letter of no record from the relevant authority, and include any alternative evidence you have.

An unexplained gap is the problem. A properly documented one, with proof that you tried, is far less likely to cause issues.

Your Citizenship Questions Deserve Real Answers – Let’s Talk

Whether you’ve received a surrender letter, are in the middle of a citizenship-by-descent application, or are just starting to explore your options, this is exactly the kind of situation where having the right guidance makes all the difference. Navigating citizenship applications, Express Entry, provincial nomination, work permits, postgraduate work permits, spousal sponsorship, visitor visas, super visas, and school admissions – all of it comes with fine print that’s easy to miss on your own. Book a consultation with us today and let’s make sure your file is as strong as it can be from the very first step.

 

June 15, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

Canada has just put over 36,000 permanent residence applications on hold, and for many people waiting anxiously on their immigration journey, this news landed like a punch to the gut.

The pause is tied to an Ebola outbreak spreading across three African countries, and it affects applicants and document holders from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. Whether you have an application in progress or already hold a PR visa, this is everything you need to know about what happened and what it means for you.

As of May 27, 2026, Canada placed a temporary hold on the processing of approximately 36,060 permanent residence (PR) applications. The reason? An Ebola disease outbreak spreading across three African countries, classified by Canadian authorities as posing a “high or very high risk.” Alongside the processing freeze, around 1,700 PR visa holders from these regions are also unable to travel to Canada while the measures remain in place.

The suspension is set to lift on August 28, 2026, but for thousands of people mid-journey through the immigration process, that’s a long wait.

Who is affected?

The restrictions apply to foreign nationals currently residing in:

  • The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
  • Uganda
  • The Republic of South Sudan

Both permanent and temporary residence applicants are caught in this freeze. That includes people waiting on PR applications, those already holding temporary resident visas (TRVs), electronic travel authorizations (eTAs), study permits, and work permits.

Here’s a breakdown of the suspended PR applications by category, for individuals who had not yet arrived in Canada as of May 24, 2026:

PR Immigration Category DR Congo Uganda South Sudan Total
Economic 511 123 7 641
Family Class 1,165 2,194 50 3,409
Humanitarian & Compassionate / Public Policy 574 338 9 921
Permit Holders Class 6 0 0 6
Protected Persons 1,778 28,274 613 30,665
Unspecified 3 395 20 418
Total 4,037 31,324 699 36,060

The largest group affected is Protected Persons – most of whom are from Uganda, making up over 28,000 of the suspended applications alone.

Beyond PR applications, below is a snapshot of foreign nationals from these three countries who held valid immigration documents (but had not yet arrived in Canada) as of May 26, 2026, totalling 24,548 individuals:

Document Type DR Congo South Sudan Uganda
Permanent Resident — Total 160 146 1,426
Study Permit 413 4 102
Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) 11,529 251 9,764
eTA 446 71 150
Temporary Resident Permit 0 0 44
Work Permit 27 0 15
Temporary Resident — Total 12,415 326 10,075
Grand Total 12,575 472 11,501

Additionally, at the time the freeze took effect, IRCC still had about 7,751 temporary resident applications sitting in its processing queue for people from these three regions, including eTAs, TRVs, study and work permits, and temporary resident permits.

Why did Canada do this?

The Canadian government moved under a law called the Minimizing the Risk of Exposure to Ebola Disease in Canada Order (Immigration Applications and Documents). This gave the Governor in Council the authority to hit pause on immigration processing for countries considered high-risk for Ebola.

Interestingly, this is the very first time Canada has exercised powers introduced through Bill C-12 – a sweeping immigration reform that came into effect on March 26, 2026. The bill grants the federal cabinet broad authority to suspend, cancel, or amend immigration documents en masse when it’s in the public interest. This Ebola situation became the inaugural test of those powers.

The government also rolled out mandatory quarantine measures for anyone who has recently travelled through these countries, effective May 30. Those quarantine measures run until August 29, 2026 – one day after the immigration suspension ends.

It’s worth noting: Canada has confirmed there are currently no Ebola cases within Canada or anywhere in North America. The government has framed these measures as purely precautionary, especially given the increased international travel expected around the FIFA World Cup 2026, which Canada is co-hosting.

Is there any exemption?

Yes, but it’s narrow. The Minister of Citizenship and Immigration has the authority to grant an exemption on a case-by-case basis, specifically for individuals who are in urgent need of protection or where there are compelling humanitarian and compassionate grounds. If your situation falls into this category, this is not something to navigate alone.

All figures referenced here come from the Canada Gazette and were accurate as of June 12, 2026.

Your immigration plans don’t have to stay on hold

If you’re one of the thousands caught up in this suspension – or you’re from a different country entirely and wondering how this might ripple into your own application timelines, uncertainty is the last thing you need. The Canadian immigration system is constantly evolving, and right now, more than ever, having someone in your corner who understands the landscape makes a real difference.

We’re here to help you find a way forward. Whether you’re exploring Express Entry, a Provincial Nomination, a Work or Study Permit, Spousal Sponsorship, a Visitor or Super Visa, or even citizenship – our team knows how to navigate complexity and advocate for your case.

[Book a Consultation Today]

Don’t let a suspension, a policy change, or confusing paperwork derail your Canadian dream. Let’s talk.

June 15, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

If you studied in Manitoba and were counting on the Career Employment Pathway (CEP) to get your permanent residence, this update is important and it affects you right now.

As of June 11, 2026, Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) officially shut down the Career Employment Pathway, which was part of its International Education Stream. The closure took effect immediately, with no transition window. If your Expression of Interest was sitting under that pathway, it no longer leads anywhere on its own which means you’ll need to make a move.

So what happens now?

The good news is there’s still a route. Manitoba is redirecting graduates toward the Skilled Worker in Manitoba pathway, and if you’ve been working in the province for at least six months with the same employer, you may already qualify. In fact, the province says graduates who studied at a Manitoba Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and are currently working there will be prioritised in future draws under this stream. Manitoba has already held 11 draws through the Skilled Worker stream just in 2026 alone, so activity is consistent.

There is one thing worth noting though – the two pathways are quite different in what they ask for. The old CEP required a job offer from an in-demand occupation list, a specific language score (CLB 7 or above), and proof that your studies were completed within the past three years. The Skilled Worker pathway works differently: instead of a job offer tied to your field of study, it asks for six months of continuous full-time work with your current employer before that offer is extended. It also requires a settlement plan, which the CEP did not.

One pathway that isn’t going anywhere is the Graduate Internship Pathway – that one stays open, but only for master’s and PhD graduates who completed a Mitacs internship.

If you had an active profile under the CEP, Manitoba is asking you to log into your account, review the Skilled Worker in Manitoba eligibility criteria, and update your profile if you qualify. It’s also important to declare all your Manitoba connections when you do – things like completing your post-secondary education in the province can work in your favour.

The province says the goal of this change is to create clearer, more consistent standards for all Manitoba graduates and to better connect education with actual labour market needs. In short, they want people who are already settling in and contributing – not just those with paper qualifications.


If this update has left you uncertain about your next step, you’re not alone. Changes like this can shift your entire immigration plan, and the worst thing to do is wait and hope for the best. Whether you’re navigating provincial nomination, express entry, a work permit, post-graduate work permit, spousal sponsorship, or even exploring other provinces – we can help you figure out what actually makes sense for your situation. Book a consultation with our team using the link below and let’s work through your options.

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June 11, 2026

If you’ve been waiting on a Labour Market Impact Assessment  (LMIA), there’s some encouraging news. Canada’s federal government recently released updated processing times, and for several immigration streams, the wait has gotten significantly shorter.

This is what changed, what it means for you, and what you should know before moving forward.

 

First: What is an LMIA, and Why Does it Matter?

Before a foreign worker can come to Canada through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), their employer needs to get something called an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Think of it as official confirmation that the employer genuinely tried to hire a Canadian first, but couldn’t find someone suitable for the role.

Once approved, that document is what allows the foreign national to apply for a work permit. So the faster the LMIA is processed, the faster the whole journey can begin.

 

What The Latest Numbers Show

ESDC published updated LMIA processing times for April 2026, comparing them against the figures from February 2026:

TFWP Stream Feb 2026 Apr 2026 Change
Global Talent Stream 12 days 8 days −4 days 
Agricultural Stream 15 days 21 days +6 days 
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program 10 days 10 days No change
High-Wage Stream 60 days 64 days +4 days 
Low-Wage Stream 48 days 58 days +10 days 
Permanent Resident Stream 244 days 140 days −104 days 

 

The Standout Win: Permanent Resident Stream

The biggest improvement belongs to the permanent resident stream, which dropped by over three months – from 244 days all the way down to 140 days. That’s a massive shift for workers and employers who use this pathway as a stepping stone toward permanent residency in Canada.

It still has the longest wait of any stream, but the direction of travel is clearly positive.

 

Tech and Skilled Workers: Back on Track

The Global Talent Stream which is designed to fast-track work permits for highly skilled professionals in areas like technology is now back within ESDC’s official 10-day processing target, coming in at just 8 days. For employers trying to hire internationally competitive talent quickly, this is a welcome return to form.

 

Low-wage Stream: The One to Watch

On the flip side, the low-wage stream saw the sharpest increase – jumping from 48 days to 58 days. This stream covers positions where the offered salary falls below the provincial or territorial wage threshold, and it’s worth noting that employers can only use it in regions where the unemployment rate sits at 6% or below, with regional eligibility reviewed quarterly.

Quick note: The agricultural stream also took a step backward, rising by about a week (from 15 to 21 days), while the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program held steady at 10 days.

Fewer Workers Coming in Overall

It’s also worth zooming out a little. Canada’s admission target for temporary foreign workers through the TFWP in 2026 is 60,000 – down from 82,000 the year before. Between January and March 2026 alone, new TFWP admissions fell by over 31% compared to the same period in 2025.

This is part of Canada’s broader plan to keep its temporary resident population below 5% of the total population by 2027. Fewer applications overall could actually help shorten LMIA wait times further down the line, so this trend is worth watching.

 

How Does this Affect You?

Whether you’re an employer trying to fill a critical role, or a foreign national hoping to work in Canada, LMIA timelines directly affect your plans. A faster process means less uncertainty and fewer delays. But navigating which stream applies to your situation, and making sure your application is complete and strong is where many people run into trouble.

The LMIA is just one part of a much bigger process that includes work permits, possible pathways to permanent residency, and in some cases, provincial nomination programs that can open additional doors.

 

Not Sure Where You Stand? Let’s Figure it Out Together.

Whether you’re exploring a work permit, Express Entry, a provincial nomination, or school admissions in Canada – our team is here to walk you through your options clearly and honestly.

Book a Consultation

June 11, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve been sitting on a Canadian permanent residence application or thinking about starting one, this is an update that might put a smile on your face. As of early June 2026, processing times for several immigration programs have dropped, and in one case, dropped by a full year.

Let’s cut straight to what matters.

 

The Atlantic Immigration Program had the biggest win

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) recorded the most dramatic improvement of this update:

Previous (May 12) Current (June 8) Government Target
AIP Processing Time 38 months 26 months 11 months

That’s a full 12 months cut off the wait and the shortest it’s been since October 2025. Still above the government’s 11-month target, but the direction is very encouraging. There are currently about 12,900 applications in the queue.

 

Provincial Nominees are also seeing relief

For those going through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), processing times dropped by one month across both streams:

Application Type Previous (May 12) Current (June 8) Government Target
Enhanced (via Express Entry) 7 months 6 months 6 months
Base (non-Express Entry) 14 months 13 months 11 months

The enhanced stream is now right at the government’s service standard which is a milestone worth noting. Currently waiting in the queue:

  • Enhanced applications: 14,000
  • Base applications: 110,200

 

Quebec programs: A mixed picture

Stream Previous (May 12) Current (June 8) Government Target
Skilled Worker (PSTQ) 11 months 11 months 11 months
Quebec Business Class 78 months 76 months Not published

The PSTQ is hitting its target exactly, which is good news for Quebec-bound skilled workers. The Business Class stream improved slightly but remains one of the longest waits in the system at over 6 years.

 

Express Entry: Stable but Competitive

Stream Previous (May 12) Current (June 8) Government Target
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) 7 months 7 months 6 months
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) 7 months 7 months 6 months

No change here, but 7 months is still very reasonable compared to other pathways. Currently in queue:

  • CEC: ~60,900 applications
  • FSWP: ~52,000 applications

 

Family Sponsorship: A step in the wrong direction

Unfortunately, most family sponsorship wait times went up by one month:

Application Type Previous (May 12) Current (June 8)
Spouse/Partner (inside Canada, outside Quebec) 25 months 26 months
Spouse/Partner (inside Canada, in Quebec) 31 months 32 months
Spouse/Partner (outside Canada, outside Quebec) 16 months 16 months
Spouse/Partner (outside Canada, in Quebec) 32 months 33 months
Parents & Grandparents (outside Quebec) 33 months 32 months
Parents & Grandparents (in Quebec) 66 months 67 months

The only improvement in this category was for Parents and Grandparents applicants planning to settle outside Quebec – a one-month drop.

 

Citizenship Processing: Holding Steady

Application Type Current Wait Government Target
Citizenship Grant 13 months 12 months
Renunciation of Citizenship 7 months Not published
Search of Citizenship Records 17 months Not published

There are currently over 326,000 citizenship grant applications in the queue – up by about 5,300 since May. Processing is stable but slow.

 

A quick summary on who’s winning right now?

  • AIP applicants – biggest improvement, 12 months faster
  • PNP (enhanced) applicants – now meeting the 6-month target
  • PNP (base) applicants – one month faster
  • Quebec Business Class – two months faster
  • Express Entry – unchanged but still reasonable
  • Quebec PSTQ – unchanged, hitting its target
  • Most family sponsorship streams – one month slower
  • Citizenship grants – still above target

 

What does all this mean for you?

Processing times are estimates, not guarantees. Your actual wait depends on:

  • How complete and accurate your application is
  • Whether additional documents are requested
  • Which specific stream or province you’re applying through
  • Your individual circumstances and background

A well-prepared application moves faster. A rushed or incomplete one can sit much longer than the published estimate.

 

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re exploring provincial nomination, building your Express Entry profile, applying for school admissions in Canada, or simply trying to figure out which pathway fits your situation – the process can feel overwhelming without the right support. Our team helps applicants put together strong, strategic applications every day, avoiding the costly mistakes that lead to delays or refusals.

Don’t leave your future to guesswork. Book a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation with us today, and let’s get you moving in the right direction.

 

June 11, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

This is something that surprises a lot of people: if one of your grandparents was born in Canada, there’s a real chance you’re already a Canadian citizen, even if you were born somewhere else entirely, your parents were too, and nobody in your family has ever owned a Canadian passport.

You wouldn’t be applying to become a citizen. You would simply be confirming what’s already true and getting the paperwork to prove it.

That’s a big deal and it became possible because of a law that changed in December 2025.

 

What Changed and Why It Matters

For about 17 years, there was a rule called the “first-generation limit.” It basically meant that Canadian citizenship could only be passed down one generation. So if your parent was born outside Canada to a Canadian parent, the chain stopped there – you were out of luck.

That rule was removed on December 15, 2025, when Bill C-3 came into effect. The door that was shut for nearly two decades is now open again and for many people, it opened quietly, without anyone telling them.

 

So Who Actually Qualifies?

This is a simple way to look at it:

  • Your grandparent was born in Canada, and your parent was born outside Canada? You likely already have citizenship.
  • Your great-grandparent (or even earlier) was Canadian? You could still qualify, as long as the documents connect the dots.
  • You were born outside Canada and adopted? There’s a specific route available for you too, though the rules are slightly different.

One important thing to note: if you were born on or after December 15, 2025, there’s an extra condition. Your Canadian parent must have physically lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (that’s three years) before your birth. The days don’t have to be back-to-back.

 

It’s All About the Paper Trail

And this is where most people hit a wall. Knowing you have a Canadian grandparent is one thing and proving it officially is another.

To get your proof of citizenship, you’ll need an unbroken chain of documents connecting you to your Canadian ancestor. Think: birth certificates, marriage records, and any documents that show how names link across generations. If your ancestor’s name changed or records are from Quebec before 1994, you’ll need fresh certified copies from the Quebec civil registry.

The further back your family connection goes, the more paperwork is involved but the principle stays the same at every step.

Processing a citizenship proof certificate currently takes around 12 months, so starting early and getting your documents in order makes a real difference.

 

A Few Situations That Can Complicate Things

Not every case is smooth sailing. These are three situations worth knowing about:

  1. A gap in the documents. A missing birth certificate or a name that changed across generations can slow things down or even stall a claim entirely. This doesn’t always end your case, but it has to be handled properly.
  2. Children born after December 15, 2025. The 1,095-day physical presence rule applies here, as mentioned above.
  3. Adoption cases. If you were born and adopted outside Canada, your pathway may be through a direct citizenship grant rather than automatic recognition. These cases are worth looking into carefully.

 

One More Thing Americans Should Know

For those coming from the U.S. specifically – both Canada and the United States allow dual citizenship. Holding Canadian citizenship doesn’t mean giving up your American passport. Canada also only taxes based on where you live, not your legal status as a citizen, so there’s no financial trap in claiming it.

 

Don’t Leave It on the Table

A lot of people have Canadian citizenship sitting unclaimed simply because nobody told them it was there. Whether your connection is through a grandparent, great-grandparent, or further back, the most important step is figuring out where your family line stands and what documents you’d need to support a claim.

The sooner you start gathering records, the smoother the process tends to be.

 

Ready to Find Out Where You Stand?

Citizenship by descent is just one piece of a bigger picture. Whether you’re looking to claim Canadian citizenship through family, explore Express Entry, apply through a Provincial Nominee Program, or get your child into a Canadian school – navigating the immigration system on your own can feel overwhelming.

That’s exactly what we’re here for. Our team helps people find the right path from citizenship claims to school admissions and everything in between. Book a 30-minute quick and focused session or a 60-minute comprehensive and in-depth session today and let’s figure out the best route for your situation together.

 

April 9, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

If you’ve been eyeing Canada as your next home, now is the time to pay close attention. Canada’s immigration system is about to go through one of its biggest shake-ups in over a decade and it directly affects how skilled workers and professionals like you can apply for permanent residence.

So, What’s Happening?

Canada’s immigration authority, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada), has put forward a plan to shut down the three programs currently running under the Express Entry system and replace them with a brand new, single program. This was revealed in their regulatory plan covering 2026 to 2028.

The three programs on the chopping block are:

  • The Federal Skilled Worker Program – for skilled workers with overseas or Canadian work experience
  • The Canadian Experience Class – for people who already have work experience inside Canada
  • The Federal Skilled Trades Program – for tradespeople in qualified occupations

All three would be replaced by one unified program with simpler entry requirements.

Why Is Canada Doing This?

The honest answer? The current system can be confusing. Different programs have different rules, and many applicants aren’t sure which one applies to them. Canada wants to fix that.

According to IRCC, the new program is designed to make things “easier for applicants, employers, and partners to understand and navigate.” It’s also expected to pull in a wider range of talent to help fill labour shortages across the country.

In plain terms, Canada still wants you. They just want the process of getting there to make more sense.

Is This Happening Now?

Not yet. The changes are still in the proposal stage. IRCC says they’ll be talking to the public, partners, and stakeholders in Spring 2026 before anything is finalized. So while nothing has changed today, the direction is clear and if you’re planning to apply, this is not the time to sit on the fence.

For context, Express Entry has been running since 2015. In 2025 alone, Canada sent out nearly 118,000 invitations to apply for permanent residence through the system. It’s one of the most used pathways to Canadian PR and it’s about to look very different.

What Should You Do Right Now?

Here’s the thing about immigration – timing matters. When systems change, people who are already in the process or have their paperwork in order tend to have an advantage. Waiting until the new program launches to start preparing could mean starting from scratch under rules that haven’t even been finalized yet.

The smartest move? Understand where you currently stand under the existing programs, and start building your case now.

Whether you qualify under the current Express Entry streams, are considering a Provincial Nomination, or are exploring school admissions as a pathway into Canada, getting expert guidance today puts you ahead of the crowd tomorrow. Our team helps people navigate exactly these kinds of moments – Express Entry, Provincial Nomination Programs, school admissions, and more. Don’t let this change catch you off guard. Book a consultation with us today using the link below and let’s map out the best route to Canada for you.

Also, follow us on Instagram @eseumohimmigration for more insight on your immigration journey.

 

January 16, 2026

Dear future neighbour,

If you’re planning to study in Canada or already working on your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) application, here’s something you need to know: Canada just decided to keep things as they are for the rest of 2026. The government isn’t adding or removing any programs from the list of courses that qualify you for a work permit after graduation.

This might sound like a small detail, but it’s actually a huge deal for anyone hoping to study, work, and eventually settle in Canada.

What’s Actually Happening?

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) put out an update saying they’re hitting pause on making any changes to which educational programs can lead to a PGWP this year. Originally, they planned to shake things up in early 2026, but they’ve now decided to keep everything the same until the year wraps up.

Right now, there are 1,107 programs on the approved list. These cover areas like healthcare, education, skilled trades, farming, science and technology, and transportation, basically fields where Canada really needs workers.

Why Does This Matter to You?

Here’s the thing: if you’re an international student graduating from certain college programs or certificate courses, your program needs to be on this approved list for you to get a PGWP. Without that work permit, you can’t gain the Canadian work experience that opens doors to permanent residency.

The good news is you now have complete clarity for the entire year. You don’t have to worry about your program suddenly getting dropped from the list halfway through your studies. That peace of mind is worth a lot when you’re making major life decisions.

Students working toward bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees can breathe easy—you’re automatically exempt from these field-of-study restrictions anyway.

How Do You Know If Your Program Qualifies?

Before you apply for your study permit or work permit, you’ll want to check something called the CIP code (Classification of Instructional Programs code). Think of it as your program’s ID number, it’s a six-digit code that tells the government exactly what you’re studying.

You can find the complete list of approved codes on the IRCC website. Just make sure your program matches one of those codes, and you’re good to go.

A Quick Look Back: What Happened Last Year?

In 2025, things got a bit messy. Canada added 119 new programs to the list but also planned to remove 178 others. Then they paused those removals and said they’d sort everything out in early 2026. Now, instead of sorting it out, they’re just keeping everything frozen.

What does that mean? Those 178 programs that were supposed to be removed? They’re still on the list and will stay there for all of 2026. So if you’re in one of those programs, you just got a pleasant surprise.

The Bigger Picture

This freeze isn’t just about bureaucracy, it’s about your future. A PGWP gives you the chance to work anywhere in Canada after you graduate, gain valuable experience, and build the foundation for permanent residency. For many international students, it’s the critical bridge between being a student and becoming a Canadian resident.

The stability this freeze brings means you can plan your education and career path without constantly checking for policy changes.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Navigating Canada’s immigration system can feel overwhelming, especially when rules keep changing and different programs have different requirements. Whether you’re just starting to think about studying in Canada, trying to figure out if your program qualifies for a PGWP, or looking at your options for permanent residency through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program, having the right guidance makes all the difference.

Our team specializes in helping international students and graduates turn their Canadian education into a pathway to permanent residency. We handle everything from school admissions and study permits to work permit applications and permanent residency programs. Don’t leave your future to guesswork – book a 60-minute  or 30-minute consultation with us and let’s create a clear roadmap for your Canadian dream.

December 5, 2025

Dear future neighbour,

Canada continues to welcome huge numbers of people who want to visit, study, or work and the interest just keeps growing. Whether you’re planning a vacation, thinking about studying in Canada, or exploring new career opportunities, it’s important to know what the current IRCC processing times look like so you can plan confidently.

And with Canada co-hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026, things are about to get even busier. Millions of fans, workers, and international visitors are expected, which means application volumes are likely to spike as we get closer to the event. If Canada is on your radar for any reason either for travel, school, or work, it’s a smart idea to stay ahead of the rush.

Below, you’ll find the latest updated IRCC processing times for temporary visas. These will give you a clearer idea of what to expect and how soon you should start preparing.

Processing time for Visiting Visa as at December 3, 2025

S/N COUNTRY PROCESSING TIME (VISITING VISA)
1 Afghanistan 98 days
2 Albania 49 days
3 Algeria 41 days
4 Andorra No processing time available
5 Angola 99 days
6 Anguilla No processing time available
7 Antigua and Barbuda 34 days
8 Argentina 21 days
9 Armenia 16 days
10 Aruba No processing time available
11 Australia 10 days
12 Austria 35 days
13 Azerbaijan 25 days
14 Bahamas 17 days
15 Bahrain 41 days
16 Bangladesh 24 days
17 Barbados 124 days
18 Belarus 18 days
19 Belgium 102 days
20 Belize 26 days
21 Benin 718 days
22 Bermuda 46 days
23 Bhutan 21 days
24 Bolivia 27 days
25 Bonaire No processing time available
26 Bosnia and Herzegovina 106 days
27 Botswana 520 days
28 Brazil 42 days
29 British Virgin Islands No processing time available
30 Brunei No processing time available
31 Bulgaria 15 days
32 Burkina Faso 97 days
33 Burma (Myanmar) 21 days
34 Burundi 207 days
35 Cambodia 21 days
36 Cameroon 439 days
37 Cabo Verde No processing time available
38 Cayman Islands 25 days
39 Central African Republic 202 days
40 Chad 508 days
41 Chile 22 days
42 China (People’s Republic of) 21 days
43 Colombia 37 days
44 Comoros Island No processing time available
45 Costa Rica 21 days
46 Côte d’Ivoire 452 days
47 Croatia No processing time available
48 Cuba 20 days
49 Cyprus 44 days
50 Czech Republic 36 days
51 Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa) 344 days
52 Denmark 50 days
53 Djibouti 98 days
54 Dominica 47 days
55 Dominican Republic 21 days
56 Ecuador 27 days
57 Egypt 86 days
58 El Salvador 21 days
59 Equatorial Guinea 403 days
60 Eritrea 60 days
61 Estonia 36 days
62 Eswatini 554 days
63 Ethiopia 71 days
64 Fiji 9 days
65 Finland 50 days
66 France 99 days
67 Gabon 100 days
68 Gambia 605 days
69 Georgia 18 days
70 Germany 35 days
71 Ghana 518 days
72 Greece 43 days
73 Grenada 23 days
74 Gautemala 20 days
75 Guinea 604 days
76 Guinea-Bissau No processing time available
77 Guyana 19 days
78 Haiti 42 days
79 Holy See No processing time available
80 Honduras 21 days
81 Hong Kong SAR 18 days
82 Hungary 30 days
83 Iceland No processing time available
84 India 115 days
85 Indonesia 20 days
86 Iran 128 days
87 Iraq 98 days
88 Ireland 44 days
89 Israel 28 days
90 Italy 44 days
91 Jamaica 22 days
92 Japan 23 days
93 Jordan 88 days
94 Kazakhstan 20 days
95 Kenya 76 days
96 Kiribati No processing time available
97 Kosovo 35 days
98 Kuwait 45 days
99 Kyrgyzstan 19 days
100 Laos 23 days
101 Latvia 34 days
102 Lebanon 41 days
103 Lesotho No processing time available
104 Liberia 696 days
105 Libya 97 days
106 Liechtenstein No processing time available
107 Lithuania 22 days
108 Luxembourg 100 days
109 Macao SAR 19 days
110 Macedonia 200 days
111 Madagascar 94 days
112 Malawi 96 days
113 Malaysia 30 days
114 Maldives No processing time available
115 Mali 551 days
116 Malta 42 days
117 Marshall Islands No processing time available
118 Martinique No processing time available
119 Mauritania 133 days
120 Mauritius 76 days
121 Mexico 43 days
122 Micronesia (Federated States of) No processing time available
123 Moldova 10 days
124 Monaco No processing time available
125 Mongolia 17 days
126 Montenegro 91 days
127 Morocco 51 days
128 Mozambique 125 days
129 Namibia 458 days
130 Nauru No processing time available
131 Nepal 19 days
132 Netherlands 46 days
133 New Caledonia No processing time available
134 New Zealand 13 days
135 Nicaragua 28 days
136 Niger 455 days
137 Nigeria 25 days
138 North Korea No processing time available
139 Norway 76 days
140 Oman 41 days
141 Pakistan 87 days
142 Palestinian Authority (Gaza) 236 days
143 Palestinian Authority (West Bank) 236 days
144 Panama 29 days
145 Papua New Guinea No processing time available
146 Paraguay 21 days
147 Peru 24 days
148 Philippines 20 days
149 Poland 17 days
150 Portugal 97 days
151 Puerto Rico No processing time available
152 Qatar 61 days
153 Romania 11 days
154 Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) 102 days
155 Russia 27 days
156 Rwanda 189 days
157 Samoa No processing time available
158 San Marino No processing time available
159 Sao Tome and Principe No processing time available
160 Saudi Arabia 49 days
161 Senegal 479 days
162 Serbia 50 days
163 Seychelles No processing time available
164 Sierra Leone 589 days
165 Singapore 27 days
166 Slovakia No processing time available
167 Slovenia No processing time available
168 Solomon Islands No processing time available
169 Somalia No processing time available
170 South Africa 160 days
171 South Korea 22 days
172 South Sudan 64 days
173 Spain 96 days
174 Sri Lanka 65 days
175 St. Kitts and Nevis No processing time available
176 St. Lucia 41 days
177 St. Vincent and Grenadines 32 days
178 Sudan No processing time available
179 Suriname No processing time available
180 Sweden 47 days
181 Switzerland 97 days
182 Syria 71 days
183 Tahiti No processing time available
184 Taiwan 19 days
185 Tajikistan 34 days
186 Tanzania 162 days
187 Thailand 27 days
188 Timor-Leste (Timor oriental) No processing time available
189 Togo 521 days
190 Tonga No processing time available
191 Trinidad and Tobago 25 days
192 Tunisia 100 days
193 Turkiye 19 days
194 Turkmenistan 111 days
195 Turks and Caicos Islands 43 days
196 Tuvalu No processing time available
197 Uganda 57 days
198 Ukraine 43 days
199 United Arab Emirates 71 days
200 United Kingdom 49 days
201 United States of America 32 days
202 Uruguay 24 days
203 US Virgin Islands No processing time available
204 Uzbekistan 29 days
205 Vanuatu No processing time available
206 Venezuela 27 days
207 Vietnam 35 days
208 Yemen 219 days
209 Zambia 99 days
210 Zimbabwe 463 days

 

Processing time for Work Permit as at December 3, 2025

S/N COUNTRY PROCESSING TIME (WORK PERMIT)
1 Afghanistan No processing time available
2 Albania 14 weeks
3 Algeria 16 weeks
4 Andorra No processing time available
5 Angola No processing time available
6 Anguilla No processing time available
7 Antigua and Barbuda No processing time available
8 Argentina No processing time available
9 Armenia No processing time available
10 Aruba No processing time available
11 Australia 6 weeks
12 Austria No processing time available
13 Azerbaijan No processing time available
14 Bahamas No processing time available
15 Bahrain No processing time available
16 Bangladesh 12 weeks
17 Barbados No processing time available
18 Belarus No processing time available
19 Belgium 6 weeks
20 Belize No processing time available
21 Benin No processing time available
22 Bermuda No processing time available
23 Bhutan No processing time available
24 Bolivia No processing time available
25 Bonaire No processing time available
26 Bosnia and Herzegovina No processing time available
27 Botswana No processing time available
28 Brazil 7 weeks
29 British Virgin Islands No processing time available
30 Brunei No processing time available
31 Bulgaria No processing time available
32 Burkina Faso 9 weeks
33 Burma (Myanmar) No processing time available
34 Burundi No processing time available
35 Cambodia No processing time available
36 Cameroon 8 weeks
37 Cabo Verde No processing time available
38 Cayman Islands No processing time available
39 Central African Republic No processing time available
40 Chad No processing time available
41 Chile 5 weeks
42 China (People’s Republic of) 7 weeks
43 Colombia 6 weeks
44 Comoros Island No processing time available
45 Costa Rica No processing time available
46 Côte d’Ivoire 10 weeks
47 Croatia No processing time available
48 Cuba No processing time available
49 Cyprus No processing time available
50 Czech Republic No processing time available
51 Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa) 9 weeks
52 Denmark No processing time available
53 Djibouti No processing time available
54 Dominica No processing time available
55 Dominican Republic No processing time available
56 Ecuador 13 weeks
57 Egypt No processing time available
58 El Salvador No processing time available
59 Equatorial Guinea No processing time available
60 Eritrea No processing time available
61 Estonia No processing time available
62 Eswatini No processing time available
63 Ethiopia No processing time available
64 Fiji No processing time available
65 Finland No processing time available
66 France 3 weeks
67 Gabon No processing time available
68 Gambia No processing time available
69 Georgia No processing time available
70 Germany 11 weeks
71 Ghana 15 weeks
72 Greece No processing time available
73 Grenada No processing time available
74 Gautemala 2 weeks
75 Guinea No processing time available
76 Guinea-Bissau No processing time available
77 Guyana No processing time available
78 Haiti 6 weeks
79 Holy See No processing time available
80 Honduras 3 weeks
81 Hong Kong SAR 36 weeks
82 Hungary No processing time available
83 Iceland No processing time available
84 India 10 weeks
85 Indonesia 4 weeks
86 Iran 49 weeks
87 Iraq 69 weeks
88 Ireland No processing time available
89 Israel 10 weeks
90 Italy 12 weeks
91 Jamaica 6 weeks
92 Japan 4 weeks
93 Jordan No processing time available
94 Kazakhstan No processing time available
95 Kenya 11 weeks
96 Kiribati No processing time available
97 Kosovo No processing time available
98 Kuwait 18 weeks
99 Kyrgyzstan No processing time available
100 Laos No processing time available
101 Latvia No processing time available
102 Lebanon 9 weeks
103 Lesotho No processing time available
104 Liberia No processing time available
105 Libya No processing time available
106 Liechtenstein No processing time available
107 Lithuania No processing time available
108 Luxembourg No processing time available
109 Macao SAR No processing time available
110 Macedonia No processing time available
111 Madagascar 23 weeks
112 Malawi No processing time available
113 Malaysia No processing time available
114 Maldives No processing time available
115 Mali No processing time available
116 Malta No processing time available
117 Marshall Islands No processing time available
118 Martinique No processing time available
119 Mauritania No processing time available
120 Mauritius 29 weeks
121 Mexico 2 weeks
122 Micronesia (Federated States of) No processing time available
123 Moldova No processing time available
124 Monaco No processing time available
125 Mongolia No processing time available
126 Montenegro No processing time available
127 Morocco 11 weeks
128 Mozambique No processing time available
129 Namibia No processing time available
130 Nauru No processing time available
131 Nepal 4 weeks
132 Netherlands No processing time available
133 New Caledonia No processing time available
134 New Zealand No processing time available
135 Nicaragua 2 weeks
136 Niger No processing time available
137 Nigeria 7 weeks
138 North Korea No processing time available
139 Norway No processing time available
140 Oman No processing time available
141 Pakistan 7 weeks
142 Palestinian Authority (Gaza) No processing time available
143 Palestinian Authority (West Bank) No processing time available
144 Panama No processing time available
145 Papua New Guinea No processing time available
146 Paraguay No processing time available
147 Peru 5 weeks
148 Philippines 6 weeks
149 Poland No processing time available
150 Portugal No processing time available
151 Puerto Rico No processing time available
152 Qatar 21 weeks
153 Romania 31 weeks
154 Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) No processing time available
155 Russia No processing time available
156 Rwanda No processing time available
157 Samoa No processing time available
158 San Marino No processing time available
159 Sao Tome and Principe No processing time available
160 Saudi Arabia 5 weeks
161 Senegal 9 weeks
162 Serbia No processing time available
163 Seychelles No processing time available
164 Sierra Leone No processing time available
165 Singapore 10 weeks
166 Slovakia No processing time available
167 Slovenia No processing time available
168 Solomon Islanda No processing time available
169 Somalia No processing time available
170 South Africa 15 weeks
171 South Korea 15 weeks
172 South Sudan No processing time available
173 Spain 10 weeks
174 Sri Lanka 7 weeks
175 St. Kitts and Nevis No processing time available
176 St. Lucia No processing time available
177 St. Vincent and Grenadines No processing time available
178 Sudan No processing time available
179 Suriname No processing time available
180 Sweden No processing time available
181 Switzerland No processing time available
182 Syria No processing time available
183 Tahiti No processing time available
184 Taiwan 6 weeks
185 Tajikistan No processing time available
186 Tanzania No processing time available
187 Thailand 5 weeks
188 Timor-Leste (Timor oriental) No processing time available
189 Togo 17 weeks
190 Tonga No processing time available
191 Trinidad and Tobago No processing time available
192 Tunisia 10 weeks
193 Turkiye 6 weeks
194 Turkmenistan No processing time available
195 Turks and Caicos Islands No processing time available
196 Tuvalu No processing time available
197 Uganda No processing time available
198 Ukraine No processing time available
199 United Arab Emirates 19 weeks
200 United Kingdom 4 weeks
201 United States of America 7 weeks
202 Uruguay No processing time available
203 US Virgin Islands No processing time available
204 Uzbekistan No processing time available
205 Vanuatu No processing time available
206 Venezuela No processing time available
207 Vietnam 8 weeks
208 Yemen No processing time available
209 Zambia No processing time available
210 Zimbabwe No processing time available

 

Processing time for Study Permit as at December 3, 2025

S/N COUNTRY PROCESSING TIME (STUDY PERMIT)
1 Afghanistan No processing time available
2 Albania No processing time available
3 Algeria 4 weeks
4 Andorra No processing time available
5 Angola No processing time available
6 Anguilla No processing time available
7 Antigua and Barbuda No processing time available
8 Argentina No processing time available
9 Armenia No processing time available
10 Aruba No processing time available
11 Australia 3 weeks
12 Austria No processing time available
13 Azerbaijan 4 weeks
14 Bahamas 11 weeks
15 Bahrain No processing time available
16 Bangladesh 4 weeks
17 Barbados 11 weeks
18 Belarus No processing time available
19 Belgium 12 weeks
20 Belize No processing time available
21 Benin 16 weeks
22 Bermuda No processing time available
23 Bhutan No processing time available
24 Bolivia No processing time available
25 Bonaire No processing time available
26 Bosnia and Herzegovina No processing time available
27 Botswana No processing time available
28 Brazil 5 weeks
29 British Virgin Islands No processing time available
30 Brunei No processing time available
31 Bulgaria No processing time available
32 Burkina Faso 3 weeks
33 Burma (Myanmar) 4 weeks
34 Burundi 16 weeks
35 Cambodia 5 weeks
36 Cameroon 8 weeks
37 Cabo Verde No processing time available
38 Cayman Islands No processing time available
39 Central African Republic No processing time available
40 Chad 8 weeks
41 Chile 11 weeks
42 China (People’s Republic of) 5 weeks
43 Colombia 5 weeks
44 Comoros Island No processing time available
45 Costa Rica No processing time available
46 Côte d’Ivoire 10 weeks
47 Croatia No processing time available
48 Cuba No processing time available
49 Cyprus No processing time available
50 Czech Republic 12 weeks
51 Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa) 5 weeks
52 Denmark 13 weeks
53 Djibouti No processing time available
54 Dominica No processing time available
55 Dominican Republic 4 weeks
56 Ecuador 7 weeks
57 Egypt 9 weeks
58 El Salvador No processing time available
59 Equatorial Guinea No processing time available
60 Eritrea No processing time available
61 Estonia No processing time available
62 Eswatini No processing time available
63 Ethiopia 9 weeks
64 Fiji No processing time available
65 Finland No processing time available
66 France 2 weeks
67 Gabon No processing time available
68 Gambia 11 weeks
69 Georgia No processing time available
70 Germany 3 weeks
71 Ghana 17 weeks
72 Greece No processing time available
73 Grenada No processing time available
74 Gautemala No processing time available
75 Guinea 8 weeks
76 Guinea-Bissau No processing time available
77 Guyana No processing time available
78 Haiti 4 weeks
79 Holy See No processing time available
80 Honduras No processing time available
81 Hong Kong SAR 12 weeks
82 Hungary No processing time available
83 Iceland No processing time available
84 India 3 weeks
85 Indonesia 4 weeks
86 Iran 42 weeks
87 Iraq No processing time available
88 Ireland 12 weeks
89 Israel No processing time available
90 Italy 12 weeks
91 Jamaica 4 weeks
92 Japan 2 weeks
93 Jordan 7 weeks
94 Kazakhstan 9 weeks
95 Kenya 10 weeks
96 Kiribati No processing time available
97 Kosovo No processing time available
98 Kuwait 5 weeks
99 Kyrgyzstan No processing time available
100 Laos No processing time available
101 Latvia No processing time available
102 Lebanon 9 weeks
103 Lesotho No processing time available
104 Liberia 12 weeks
105 Libya 9 weeks
106 Liechtenstein No processing time available
107 Lithuania No processing time available
108 Luxembourg No processing time available
109 Macao SAR No processing time available
110 Macedonia No processing time available
111 Madagascar 20 weeks
112 Malawi No processing time available
113 Malaysia 9 weeks
114 Maldives No processing time available
115 Mali 10 weeks
116 Malta No processing time available
117 Marshall Islands No processing time available
118 Martinique No processing time available
119 Mauritania No processing time available
120 Mauritius 13 weeks
121 Mexico 5 weeks
122 Micronesia (Federated States of) No processing time available
123 Moldova No processing time available
124 Monaco No processing time available
125 Mongolia 4 weeks
126 Montenegro No processing time available
127 Morocco 8 weeks
128 Mozambique No processing time available
129 Namibia No processing time available
130 Nauru No processing time available
131 Nepal 3 weeks
132 Netherlands 12 weeks
133 New Caledonia No processing time available
134 New Zealand No processing time available
135 Nicaragua No processing time available
136 Niger 7 weeks
137 Nigeria 5 weeks
138 North Korea No processing time available
139 Norway No processing time available
140 Oman 3 weeks
141 Pakistan 5 weeks
142 Palestinian Authority (Gaza) No processing time available
143 Palestinian Authority (West Bank) No processing time available
144 Panama No processing time available
145 Papua New Guinea No processing time available
146 Paraguay No processing time available
147 Peru 4 weeks
148 Philippines 4 weeks
149 Poland 7 weeks
150 Portugal No processing time available
151 Puerto Rico No processing time available
152 Qatar 3 weeks
153 Romania No processing time available
154 Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) 3 weeks
155 Russia 7 weeks
156 Rwanda 13 weeks
157 Samoa No processing time available
158 San Marino No processing time available
159 Sao Tome and Principe No processing time available
160 Saudi Arabia 4 weeks
161 Senegal 7 weeks
162 Serbia No processing time available
163 Seychelles No processing time available
164 Sierra Leone No processing time available
165 Singapore 9 weeks
166 Slovakia 13 weeks
167 Slovenia No processing time available
168 Solomon Islands No processing time available
169 Somalia No processing time available
170 South Africa 18 weeks
171 South Korea 2 weeks
172 South Sudan No processing time available
173 Spain 12 weeks
174 Sri Lanka 8 weeks
175 St. Kitts and Nevis No processing time available
176 St. Lucia No processing time available
177 St. Vincent and Grenadines No processing time available
178 Sudan No processing time available
179 Suriname No processing time available
180 Sweden No processing time available
181 Switzerland 12 weeks
182 Syria No processing time available
183 Tahiti No processing time available
184 Taiwan 3 weeks
185 Tajikistan No processing time available
186 Tanzania 12 weeks
187 Thailand 4 weeks
188 Timor-Leste (Timor oriental) No processing time available
189 Togo 12 weeks
190 Tonga No processing time available
191 Trinidad and Tobago 6 weeks
192 Tunisia 4 weeks
193 Turkiye 4 weeks
194 Turkmenistan No processing time available
195 Turks and Caicos Islands No processing time available
196 Tuvalu No processing time available
197 Uganda 5 weeks
198 Ukraine No processing time available
199 United Arab Emirates 6 weeks
200 United Kingdom 5 weeks
201 United States of America 4 weeks
202 Uruguay No processing time available
203 US Virgin Islands No processing time available
204 Uzbekistan 6 weeks
205 Vanuatu No processing time available
206 Venezuela No processing time available
207 Vietnam 6 weeks
208 Yemen No processing time available
209 Zambia No processing time available
210 Zimbabwe 17 weeks

If you’re thinking about coming to Canada especially with the excitement of FIFA 2026 coming up, now is the perfect time to get started. Need help making sense of the timelines or putting together a strong application? We are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s get your plans moving! Book a 60 minute or 30-minute consultation today!