What IRCC Means by Processing Time
According to IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada), the “processing time” for a visa or permit starts when they receive a complete application. That includes all required forms, fees, and documents.
Processing time includes the time for reviewing your biometrics — i.e., once your biometrics are submitted, the clock is already running.
However, IRCC’s public processing time estimates are based on past data (how long 80% of similar applications took).
Biometrics Requirement
Most foreign nationals applying for a Canadian work permit need to give biometrics (fingerprints + photo) unless they already submitted valid biometrics in a previous application.
After you apply, IRCC will send a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL). Once you receive it, you usually have 30 days to complete biometrics.
For some programs (like parts of the Global Skills Strategy), IRCC asks applicants to give biometrics within 2 weeks of the BIL to accelerate processing.
While timelines can vary a lot, multiple sources provide reasonable estimates based on recent data. Here’s a breakdown:
| Stage | Estimated Time After Biometrics |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Processing (general) | 8–12 weeks (2 to ~3 months) after biometrics for many work permit applications. |
| Security / Background Checks | ~2–8 weeks, depending on complexity, country of residence, and risk profile. |
| Medical Exam (if required) | ~2–4 weeks (to schedule, complete, and submit results) according to some breakdowns. |
| Final Decision / Permit Issuance | After all checks, IRCC may take 2–4 more weeks for final decision; then issuing of the permit may take additional 1–2 weeks. |
Putting it all together, some sources suggest total time from biometrics to permit decision is around 8–12 weeks for simpler work-permit cases.
There are many factors that can make a big difference in how long your application takes after biometrics:
Type of Work Permit
Employer-specific work permits (LMIA-based) often require more scrutiny (employer qualification, job offer, LMIA, etc.).
Open work permits (like spousal work permits) or work permits under “Global Skills” streams might be faster or slower depending on demand and internal IRCC prioritization.
Highly skilled workers or those applying under special programs (e.g., Global Skills Strategy) may be eligible for faster processing.
Application Completeness
If you miss documents, or IRCC has to ask for additional ones (e.g., police clearance, medical exam), your application can be delayed.
Having a well-prepared application (all correct forms, translated docs if needed, proof of employment, etc.) helps reduce back-and-forth.
Background / Security Checks
Biometric submission triggers background checks (security, law-enforcement, immigration history). These checks’ duration depends on the applicant’s country, previous travel/immigration history, and whether there are any red flags.
IRCC may also run additional checks for some nationalities or depending on global risk assessments.
Volume of Applications
Processing times depend heavily on how many applications IRCC has at a given time. Peak application seasons (e.g., summer) can slow down processing.
Staffing levels at visa offices or processing centers can also affect speed.
Medical Exam Requirement
If medical exams are needed, scheduling delays or receiving results can add significant time.
Some work permit streams may always require a medical, while others don’t, depending on the job and applicant’s background.
Country of Application
Where you apply (from which country or visa office) can affect processing because of different volumes, resources, or security screening protocols.
IRCC Policy Changes or Backlogs
Policy updates, surges in applications, or operational changes in IRCC (like expanding biometric collection centers) can affect processing times.
There is also growing concern and reports around delayed processing times in some streams, reflecting ongoing backlogs.
According to a TerraTern blog, as of early 2025, average work permit processing after biometrics is ~8-12 weeks.
In some breakdowns, sources estimate total work permit processing (from application to permit issuance) may take 5–36 weeks, depending on LMIA, employer, and background complexity.
For certain open work permits, especially for spouses or family members, some sources report 8–16 weeks processing time.
On forums like Reddit, some applicants report long waits due to background check delays:
“Background check is normally the longest one/step in the processing.”
On the other hand, some say they received permit approval quite soon after biometrics:
“Biometrics: April 11 … Approval / letter … April 22. Surprisingly fast after biometrics.”
If you’re applying (especially from India, as in your case), here are some practical tips to potentially reduce wait times or avoid unnecessary delays:
Apply Early & Carefully
Submit your application as soon as possible, especially before peak months.
Double-check all forms, required documents, translations, and supporting letters from your employer.
Pay Biometrics Fee Early & Book Appointment Quickly
As soon as you get the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), schedule your biometrics appointment.
In some programs, giving biometrics within 2 weeks of the BIL helps with faster processing.
Prepare Documents for Background / Security Checks
Have police clearance certificates, prior country visas/travel history, immigration documents ready.
If medical exam is required, book with a panel physician early.
Track Your Application
Use your IRCC online account to monitor status (e.g., “Biometrics received,” “In process,” “Additional documents requested”).
Check e-mail (including spam) regularly — IRCC may request additional documents via email.
Be Mindful of LMIA Timing (If Applicable)
If your work permit relies on an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), ensure that your LMIA is valid and current.
Coordinate with your prospective employer to make sure LMIA and work permit applications align well.
Consider Options for Expedited Processing
In some high-skill or in-demand sectors, there are priority processing streams (e.g., under Global Skills).
If you have a compelling reason (urgent job start date, critical skill), you can try contacting IRCC via their web form to explain — though this does not guarantee faster processing.
Stay Updated on IRCC Delays / Policy Changes
IRCC often updates processing times on their official “Check processing times” page.
Join relevant forums or follow credible immigration blogs to keep track of current trends, especially from your country.
Wait Patiently: Even if you don’t get a decision within 12 weeks, it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. IRCC times are estimates.
Use IRCC Web Form: After the normal processing time has passed, you can submit a web form to inquire about your application status.
Consider GCMS Notes: If you want detailed information, you can request GCMS (Global Case Management System) notes via a legitimate immigration representative (lawyer or consultant) to see where your application is in the pipeline.
Avoid Multiple Inquiries: Filing multiple web forms too soon can slow things further; IRCC itself advises caution.
The typical timeframe after biometrics for a Canadian work permit is roughly 8–12 weeks, but it depends heavily on the type of permit, completeness, background checks, and volume of applications.
The biometrics step is essential — without it, IRCC won’t continue processing, and the timer keeps going.
Preparation is key: a well-prepared, complete application can help avoid delays.
Always use official IRCC resources (like their processing time tool) to track expected timelines, and don’t panic if things take a bit longer — many applications are more complex than they seem.
