PR & Citizenship

PR & Citizenship Update — July 13, 2026

Monday, July 13, 2026


Processing times dropped significantly for Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) applicants — down 12 months to 26 months as of June 8, 2026, the lowest since September 2025 — while PNP applicants saw a 1-month decrease and Quebec Business Class dropped 2 months.

Family sponsorship wait times rose by 1 month across most categories, including spouses, common-law partners, and parents and grandparents.

IRCC processed 112,600 permanent residence decisions between January and March 2026, and welcomed 285,500 new citizens from April 2025 to March 2026.

What You Should Do

  • If you are an AIP applicant, check your application status on your IRCC secure account at ircc.canada.ca — processing times have dropped to 26 months, but the service standard is 11 months, so follow up if your file is significantly over the standard.
  • If you are sponsoring a spouse, common-law partner, parent, or grandparent, note that wait times have increased by 1 month as of June 8, 2026 — log into your IRCC account at ircc.canada.ca to confirm your current file status and update any expiring documents proactively.
  • If you have received a citizenship ceremony invitation from IRCC, review the format (virtual or in-person), practice the Oath of Citizenship in English or French, and prepare to sign the Oath or Affirmation of Citizenship (OAC) form on the day of your ceremony.
  • If you are applying through Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class), target a 4–6 month timeline for straightforward files, but expect 7–12+ months if your file involves multi-country work history, security screening, or complex documentation — gather and verify all employment letters and education documents before submitting your e-APR.

Topics Covered

PR Card Processing Efficiency: As of June 8, 2026, AIP processing times fell by 12 months to 26 months, PNP dropped by 1 month for both base and enhanced applications, and Quebec Business Class dropped 2 months. Family sponsorship categories rose by 1 month.

Citizenship Processing Improvements: IRCC welcomed 285,500 new citizens from April 2025 to March 2026, reflecting high throughput in citizenship processing over the fiscal year.


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