Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released its latest update on processing times for various immigration services as of May 13, 2025. These updates are essential for anyone applying for a Canadian visa, permanent residency (PR), citizenship, or a Canadian passport.
Understanding the expected timelines can help you prepare your application correctly and avoid unnecessary delays. In this blog, we’ll break down the key updates and provide expert tips to speed up your application.
What Are IRCC Processing Times?
IRCC processing times reflect how long it typically takes the department to process 80% of applications. These times are updated weekly and begin from the moment IRCC receives a complete application.
Highlights of IRCC Processing Times – May 2025
Citizenship Applications
- Grant of Citizenship: 10 months (↑ from 8 months)
- Citizenship Certificate: 4 months (↑ from 3 months)
- Renunciation of Citizenship: 7 months (↓ from 8 months)
- Search of Citizenship Records: 15 months (no change)
Permanent Resident Cards
- New PR Card: 43 days (↑ from 35 days)
- PR Card Renewal: 11 days (↑ by 1 day)
Family Sponsorship Applications
- Spouse/Common-law (Outside Canada, Non-Quebec): 10 months (↓ from 11 months)
- Spouse/Common-law (Outside Canada, Quebec): 36 months (↑ from 35 months)
- Spouse/Common-law (Inside Canada): 29–36 months depending on location
- Parents/Grandparents Sponsorship: 36 to 48 months (depending on province)
Canadian Passport Applications
- In-person Passport (Standard): 10 business days
- Mail-in Passport: 20 business days
- Urgent or Express Services: 1 to 9 business days
Read More: Thinking About Moving to Canada? Avoid These Costly PR Application Errors
Top Tips to Avoid Delays in Your IRCC Application
Submit a Complete Application
Missing documents or incorrect forms are the #1 reason for processing delays.
Stay Updated
Processing times change often. Stay informed through official IRCC resources.
Respond Promptly to IRCC Requests
Always reply to any document or biometric requests quickly.
Hire an Immigration Consultant
Working with a licensed immigration expert can help ensure your application is done right the first time.
How Millennium Immigration Can Help You
At The Millennium Immigration, we specialize in helping clients across the globe navigate Canada’s complex immigration system. Whether you’re applying for a PR card, sponsoring a spouse, or renewing your passport, we make the process smooth and stress-free.
Our Services Include:
- Permanent Residency applications (Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, etc.)
- Work permits and LMIA support
- Citizenship applications
- Visitor and student visa services
- Expert documentation review and submission
Final Thoughts
IRCC’s May 2025 update confirms that processing times continue to shift based on demand and case complexity. Staying informed and preparing your application correctly is crucial to avoid delays.
Contact Millennium Immigration today for a free consultation and let our experts help you navigate your Canadian immigration journey with confidence.