🇨🇦 Canada Visa Processing Times: 2026 Update — How Long Will Your Application Take?
Thinking about moving to Canada this year — to study, work, join your family, or explore new opportunities? Then you absolutely need to know how long your visa or immigration application might take.
IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) updates processing times regularly. In this post, we break down the latest timelines for 2026 across all major visa categories. Plus, you’ll get insider tips on how to keep things moving smoothly.
Latest Canada Visa Processing Times in 2026
1. Canadian Citizenship
Ready to become a Canadian citizen? Here’s what to expect:
- Citizenship Grant: 10 months
- Citizenship Certificate: 5 months
- Renunciation: 7 months
- Record Search: 15 months
📌 Tip:. Applications outside Canada or the U.S. may take longer.
2. PR Card Renewals & New Cards
Your PR card proves your permanent resident status. As of this month:
- New PR Card: 50 days
- PR Card Renewal: 16 days
Double-check your photos and documents — these small mistakes cause most delays.
3. Family Sponsorship
Want to bring your spouse, partner, parents, or grandparents to Canada?
- Spouse/Partner (Outside Canada): 11 months
- Inside Canada: Up to 38 months (Quebec applications take longer)
- Parents/Grandparents: Up to 48 months
Quebec’s special immigration process is the main reason for the longer wait.
4. Canadian Passport Applications
Applying for a passport in 2026? Here are the latest estimates:
- In-Person: 10 business days
- By Mail (Canada): 20 business days
- Urgent: Next day
- Express: 2–9 days
- Outside Canada: 20 business days
Recommended post:
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🇨🇦 All You Need to Know About Canada Work Visa Requirements
🇨🇦 Comparing Visitor Visa, Work Permit, and Study Permit in Canada: Which Is Easier?
5. Economic Class PR Applications
For skilled workers, Express Entry is still the fastest option.
- Canadian Experience Class: 5 months
- Federal Skilled Worker: 7 months
- Express Entry PNP: 8 months
- Non-Express PNP: 19 months
- Quebec Skilled Worker: 9 months
- Start-Up Visa: 51 months
- Self-Employed: 58 months
Programs like Start-Up and Self-Employed take longer because of detailed business and background checks.
6. Visitor Visa Times
Want to travel or reunite with loved ones? Here’s how long it takes to process a visitor visa in 2026.
Outside Canada:
- India: 26 days
- Nigeria: 63 days
- Philippines: 34 days
Inside Canada:
- New Visitor Visa: 22 days
- Visitor Extension: 193 days
Super Visa (Parents/Grandparents):
- India: 86 days
- Pakistan: 155 days
7. Study Permit Processing
Canada is still a top choice for students, but processing times vary by country.
- India: 3 weeks
- Nigeria: 5 weeks
- Pakistan: 11 weeks
- Inside Canada: 13 weeks for new permits, 182 days for extensions
8. Work Permits
Coming to Canada for a job?
- Outside Canada: 5–13 weeks depending on country
- Inside Canada (all extensions): About 188 days
9. Other Temporary Visas
Includes seasonal, IEC (Working Holiday), and eTA.
- SAWP (Farm work): 43 days
- IEC: 5 weeks
- eTA: 5 min to 72 hours
Helpful Tips to Speed Up Your Application
- Use the official IRCC document checklist to avoid mistakes.
- Track your application online — processing times change every week.
- If applying for Quebec, plan for delays.
- For complex cases, consider a licensed consultant.
- Bookmark official sites for direct updates like
Final Thoughts
Visa processing isn’t just paperwork — it’s your gateway to a new chapter. Whether you’re reuniting with family, starting university, or landing your dream job, knowing these timelines helps you plan smartly.
Stay patient, follow IRCC’s requirements closely, and your Canadian dream could be closer than you think.
FAQs
How often does Canada update processing times?
Usually weekly or monthly. Always check the IRCC site before you apply.
Does faster processing depend on my country?
Yes, some countries see faster approvals due to streamlined checks or fewer applications.
Can a consultant speed up my visa?
They can’t speed it up, but they can make sure your application is perfect to avoid delays.
Is Quebec always slower?
Quebec has its own rules, so expect longer times, especially for sponsorships.
Can I work while waiting for PR?
With a valid work permit, yes. Check your permit conditions carefully.
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