This Week in Canadian Immigration: Backlog Reductions, Policy Shifts, and Citizenship Celebrations
- Gagandeep Singh
- May 31
- 3 min read
This week in Canadian immigration has been dynamic, with key updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on backlog reduction efforts, significant policy adjustments for temporary residents, and a nationwide celebration of Canadian citizenship.
IRCC Continues to Chip Away at Backlog
Good news for applicants! IRCC has reported a continued reduction in its immigration application backlog. As of April 30, 2025, the total number of applications in the backlog stood at 760,200, a decrease from 779,900 the previous month. This marks the fifth consecutive month the backlog has remained below 1 million and is the lowest in the last six months.
While this overall reduction is positive, a deeper dive into the numbers reveals varying progress across various categories. For permanent resident applications, the total inventory as of April 30 was 880,800, with 391,000 considered backlog. Family sponsorship applications showed substantial progress, remaining well within their internal backlog target.
However, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applications through Express Entry still face a significant backlog, exceeding the projected target.
Similarly, for temporary resident permit applications, while there's progress in reducing work permit and study permit backlogs compared to the previous month, they still fall short of the internal projected targets. Visitor visa backlogs also remain higher than desired.
Citizenship grant applications, however, continue to show a notably low backlog, with a high percentage processed within service standards.
IRCC attributes this progress to the use of advanced analytics and automated technologies to assist immigration officers, as well as the implementation of application caps in certain programs, such as the 2025 study permit cap and the Home Care Worker Pilots.
Significant Policy Update for Temporary Foreign Workers
A major development this week is the updated temporary public policy, effective May 27, 2025, allowing temporary foreign workers (TFWs) on employer-specific work permits to change jobs or occupations without waiting for a new work permit. This policy, originally introduced during the pandemic, has been revised to provide greater flexibility and financial stability for workers already in Canada.
Under this updated policy, eligible foreign nationals can begin working for a new employer or in a new role as soon as they submit an application for a new work permit, provided they meet specific criteria. IRCC will confirm eligibility by email, and workers can start their new job only after receiving this confirmation. This change aims to reduce employment gaps for TFWs and allow businesses to fill skilled positions faster.
Citizenship Week Celebrated Across Canada
From May 26 to June 1, 2025, Canada is celebrating Citizenship Week. The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, issued a statement marking the occasion, highlighting Canada's diversity, resilience, and shared future. The week serves as a time to reflect on the meaning of Canadian citizenship, embrace shared rights and responsibilities, and recognize the invaluable contributions of new citizens to the nation's fabric. Public citizenship ceremonies are being held across the country, inviting all Canadians to celebrate those who have chosen to make Canada their home.
Other Notable Updates
Maintained Status Policy Changes: As of May 28, 2025, IRCC has introduced significant updates to the rules governing maintained status for temporary residents applying to extend their stay. These changes particularly impact workers and students, emphasizing the importance of planning extensions ahead of time.
Yukon Nominee Program: Yukon began sending out invitations to apply for territorial nomination for its 2025 intake. The territory received more submissions than available nomination spots, reflecting the federal government's decision to lower targets for PR admissions, including PNP targets.
Processing Times: While general processing times fluctuate, recent updates indicate both improvements and increases across various application streams. It's always advisable for applicants to check the most current processing times on the IRCC website for their specific application type.
For more details and information, feel free to visit Elgin Immigration Blog for comprehensive articles and updates on immigration in Canada.
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