Recent data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada reveals that Canada’s immigration backlog has surpassed one million applications. As of October 31, IRCC was handling 2.18 million applications, with only 1.18 million meeting service standards, leaving 1,006,700 applications in backlog, the highest level in 2025.

Permanent Residence Applications

IRCC is currently managing 928,800 permanent residence applications, with 54% exceeding service standards. Backlogs have increased in key economic streams:

• Express Entry: 27% backlogged, up from 21% in September.
• Express Entry-linked PNP: 51% backlogged, the highest level since April 2022.
• Family sponsorship: 20% backlogged, aligning with projections.

Temporary Residence Applications

While temporary residence inventories saw a slight decline, 450,600 applications remained backlogged:

• Work permits: backlog increased to 50%.
• Study permits: backlog decreased to 41%, the first decline since July 2025.
• Visitor visas: backlog remained steady at 57%.

Citizenship Applications

IRCC reported 254,300 citizenship applications, with 22% in backlog, marking the fourth consecutive monthly increase.