IRCC Backlog Surges in May 2025: What It Means for Immigration Applicants

Canada’s immigration processing backlog has seen its first significant increase in months—raising concerns for prospective immigrants, students, and temporary workers. Let’s explore what this means, which programs are affected, and how real applicants are navigating this landscape.

IRCC Backlog Rises After Months of Steady Decline

As of May 31, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reported a backlog of 802,000 applications—a sharp 5.5% increase from April’s 760,200 pending cases. This is the first month-over-month rise since October 2024.

Here’s a quick look at the backlog trend:

This uptick highlights a growing pressure on IRCC to meet its service standards, which define the maximum time allowed to process applications before they're considered backlogged.

What Qualifies as a “Backlog” at IRCC?

A file is labeled as part of the backlog once it exceeds IRCC’s published service standards, such as:

• Express Entry PR applications: 6 months

• Family Sponsorship: 12 months

• Work/Study Permits: Varies by type

Goal: IRCC aims to process 80% of all applications within these timelines. Complex applications requiring extra documentation are often the reason for delays.

Permanent Residence Applications: What’s Changing?

As of April 30, 2025, there were 897,900 PR applications in the IRCC system.

• 55% (495,500 applications) were within processing standards

• 45% (402,400 applications) were backlogged

Key breakdowns:

• Express Entry: 18% in backlog

• PNP via Express Entry: Backlog rose from 24% (Nov 2024) to 49% (April-May 2025)

• Family Sponsorship: 14% in backlog, below the internal 15% target

Real Use Case:
Megha, a software engineer from India, applied for PR via the Federal Skilled Worker stream in October 2024. Despite a strong CRS score and job offer, her file hit delays due to missing documentation on work experience—placing her into the 18% backlog. A consultation with an RCIC helped her submit a notarized work letter, and the case was processed within 60 more days.

⏳ Temporary Resident Applications: The Backlog Breakdown

Out of 973,300 TR applications, 620,000 were within service standards. That leaves 353,300 in the backlog.

• Work Permits: 38% backlog (vs. target of 23%)

• Study Permits: 23% backlog, down from 30% in April

• Visitor Visas: 54% backlog — unchanged from April

Real Use Case:
Ali, a student from Nigeria, applied for a study permit in March 2025. Initially placed in the backlog due to biometrics issues, his application was flagged as urgent through the Student Direct Stream (SDS), expediting his processing by late May.

Citizenship Applications: Stable but Slow

Citizenship application backlog sits at 19%, holding steady from April. This is within acceptable thresholds, but still highlights a longer wait time for those seeking to finalize their Canadian journey.

How is IRCC Tackling the Backlog?

IRCC is leveraging AI tools, automation, and strategic policy updates to manage inventory and identify complex cases faster.

Ongoing Innovations:

• GeoMatch Algorithm: In collaboration with Stanford University, helping Express Entry applicants decide where to settle.

• Automation: Faster triaging of straightforward vs. complex files.

• Digital Transition: New client online accounts expected to roll out through 2025-2026.

2025–2026 IRCC Departmental Priorities

IRCC’s recently announced Departmental Plan outlines several forward-looking policies:

• Making the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot permanent

• New work permit stream for agriculture and fish processing sectors

• Revisions to PGWP eligibility based on field of study

• Updates to Spousal Open Work Permit criteria

• New free trade agreements impacting LMIA-exempt permits

• Unified online IRCC account system for all applicants

• Exploring PR pathways for refugee students

Real Use Case:
Rajesh, working in Canada under an LMIA-based work permit, benefited from the new PNP work permit pilot. It allowed him to switch employers and move provinces while still maintaining his PR eligibility—cutting months of additional waiting.

Key Policy Shifts to Note

• Reduction of PR admissions cap to 1% of Canada’s population

• Temporary resident levels capped at 5% of total population

• Provinces must issue 75% of PNP nominations to in-Canada residents

• LMIA permits reduced to 80,000–84,000 annually (from 184,000 in 2023)

• French-speaking PR admissions outside Quebec to reach 8.5%

Economic Impact of Temporary Residents

By the end of 2025, IRCC expects international students and visitors to contribute at least $36 billion to Canada’s economy. This reaffirms the importance of these programs even as processing caps tighten.

Final Thoughts: What Should Applicants Do?

If you're planning to apply for PR, work/study permits, or sponsor family in 2025–2026, here are key tips:

✅ Ensure documentation is complete and accurate
✅ Apply early—don’t wait for quotas to tighten
✅ Use authorized immigration consultants for error-free submissions
✅ Track policy updates, especially those affecting eligibility

Need Help With Your Immigration Application?

Whether you’re stuck in the backlog or preparing to apply, professional guidance can fast-track your journey. Book a free consultation today to review your case, avoid processing pitfalls, and increase your success chances.