Immigration Announcement
Canada Immigration Backlog Hits Close to 1.1 Million Applications
Canada’s immigration backlog continues to grow, reaching nearly 1.1 million delayed applications, as revealed by the latest data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This growing backlog poses significant challenges to prospective immigrants, students, and workers seeking residency in the country.
Immigration Backlog – A Closer Look at the Numbers
As of August 31, 2024, IRCC reported a total backlog of 1,078,300 applications across various categories. This marks a 7.57% increase compared to the previous month. The backlog covers applications for citizenship, permanent residence, and temporary residence—three key pillars of Canada’s immigration system.
Below is a breakdown of the immigration backlog and applications processed within service standards:
| Application Type | August 31 Backlog | July 31 Backlog | MoM Change (July to August) | Processed Within Service Standards (August 31) | Processed Within Service Standards (July 31) | MoM Change in Service Standards |
| Citizenship | 38,600 | 39,000 | -1.02% | 190,600 | 193,500 | -1.50% |
| Permanent Residence | 300,800 | 299,000 | +0.60% | 504,800 | 467,200 | +8.04% |
| Temporary Residence | 738,900 | 664,400 | +11.21% | 647,100 | 701,600 | -7.77% |
| Total | 1,078,300 | 1,002,400 | +7.57% | 1,342,500 | 1,362,300 | -1.45% |
The sharp rise in temporary residence applications (+11.21%) highlights the growing demand for visas from international students and temporary workers, making it the largest category of the backlog.
What’s Driving the Backlog?
Several factors are contributing to Canada’s immigration backlog:
As more international students and temporary workers seek opportunities in Canada, the system is struggling to keep up with the volume of applications.
The recent reduction in international student permits, aimed at addressing housing shortages, may have further complicated the processing of applications, especially in the temporary residence category.
Despite improvements in processing efficiency for permanent residency applications, the overall capacity to manage the surge in temporary residence applications remains strained.
Can the Backlog Be Reduced?
The IRCC has projected a 20-30% reduction in the immigration backlog by mid-2025. To achieve this, the department plans to expand its technological capabilities, allocate more resources to application processing, and introduce ongoing reforms to streamline the system.
| Category | Projected Backlog Reduction by End of September 2024 | Actual Backlog (August 31, 2024) | IRCC Projection by End of August 2024 |
| Citizenship | 16% | 17% | 11% |
| Express Entry | 15% | 16% | 15% |
| Express Entry PNP | 20% | 22% | 20% |
| Spouses, Partners, and Children | 15% | 14% | 15% |
| Temporary Resident Visas (TRV) | 60% | 71% | 43% |
| Study Permits | 30% | 32% | 18% |
| Work Permits | 14% | 47% | 22% |
The growing backlog is already having a tangible impact on prospective immigrants, international students, and workers. Those applying for temporary residence visas are likely to experience longer processing times, with 738,900 applications currently in the backlog. However, there is positive news for those seeking permanent residency—an increasing number of applications are being processed within service standards, offering hope to individuals seeking a long-term future in Canada.
Will Canada Overcome the Immigration Backlog?
As Canada’s immigration backlog approaches 1.1 million applications, the IRCC is actively working to enhance its processing systems and address this growing demand. While challenges remain, the commitment to improving the situation is strong. For applicants, staying proactive and informed is more important than ever. By understanding the current trends and seeking expert guidance, you can significantly improve your chances of success in Canada’s vibrant and competitive immigration landscape. With the right approach, brighter opportunities await!
