Canada’s Immigration Backlog: A Detailed Overview

According to the latest data from the government’s immigration department, the Express Entry backlog in Canada reached a peak not seen in over three years by November 30, 2025.

Overall, the department had over 1 million applications categorized as backlog, a figure that remained relatively stable compared to the previous month. Within this backlog, the Express Entry program stood out, with the percentage of applications exceeding service standards increasing from 27% to 32%, surpassing the department’s 25% target.

The backlog for permanent residence applications continued to rise, with more than half a million applications falling under this category. Particularly impacted were Express Entry-linked Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) files, with over half experiencing delays in processing, while family sponsorship applications remained steady.

Results for temporary residence applications varied. There was a notable improvement in the processing of study permits, leading to a reduction in the backlog to 36%. However, work permits showed only marginal progress, and visitor visa backlogs remained high and unchanged.

Furthermore, citizenship applications also faced mounting pressure, with backlogs increasing for the fifth consecutive month.

The immigration department deems an application as backlogged once it surpasses its service standard, such as the six-month target for Express Entry. Despite aiming to process 80% of applications on time, the department continues to grapple with escalating volumes that strain the system.