Challenges in Immigration Processing
As of August 31, 2025, the immigration department had 958,850 applications pending, showing a consistent monthly increase from the previous months.
Backlog Progression Over 6 Months
- March 2025: 779,900
- April 2025: 760,200
- May 2025: 802,000
- June 2025: 842,800
- July 2025: 901,700
- August 2025: 958,850
By the end of August, the total number of applications in the system reached 2,199,400, with 1,240,550 being processed within the set timeframes, while the remaining applications exceeded the standard processing times.
Analysis of Permanent Residence (PR) Applications
- Total PR applications: 901,800
- Processed on time: 431,500
- Backlog: 470,300 (an increase from 443,500 in July)
Detailed Breakdown:
- Express Entry backlog: 20% (a slight decrease from 21%)
- Express Entry-aligned PNP backlog: stable at 49% (a significant rise from 25% in Dec 2024)
- Family sponsorship backlog: 17% (the highest since Aug 2023, up from 15%)
Insights on Temporary Residence Applications
- Total temporary residence applications: 1,038,100
- Processed on time: 600,750 (58%)
- Backlog: 437,350
Detailed Breakdown:
- Work permits: backlog slightly decreased from 46% to 45%
- Study permits: backlog significantly increased from 23% to 32%
- Visitor visas: backlog rose from 56% to 60%
Updates on Citizenship Applications
The citizenship backlog has remained steady at 20% (compared to 19% in July).
Understanding the Term “Backlog”
An application is considered part of the backlog if it surpasses the department’s standard processing times (e.g., six months for Express Entry, 12 months for family sponsorship). The department aims to process 80% of applications within the designated timeframes, with more complex cases potentially requiring additional processing time.