IRCC’s processing time estimates changed again in mid-February 2026. Some family sponsorship estimates improved, while several temporary residence estimates (especially study and some work permits) moved up depending on where you apply from. The only safe way to use this info is to check the official tool the same day you make decisions, because estimates update often.
Where to check the official numbers
IRCC posts its live estimates in the Check processing times tool: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
IRCC also explains that processing time starts when they receive a complete application and ends when a decision is made, and that times can change based on volume and complexity.https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html.
What this February snapshot showed (Jan 15 → Feb 17, 2026)
Based on a one-month comparison using IRCC’s posted estimates:
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Family sponsorship: reported as stable or slightly faster in some streams, with a notable improvement mentioned for Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in that snapshot.
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Study permits: reported as up across the board in the compared locations.
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Work permits: mixed results overall, with a major increase reported for some locations (example highlighted: Pakistan).
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Citizenship: reported as longer for grants and proof of citizenship in that same month-to-month view.
If you’re using this to plan, re-check the IRCC tool again before you submit: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html.
Processing times vs service standards (not the same)
Processing times are estimates. Service standards are IRCC’s published targets for many application types. You can see IRCC service standards here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/service-declaration/service-standards.html.
Example: IRCC’s service standard for overseas spouses/partners and dependent children (Family Class) is shown here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/service-declaration/service-standards/family-class-priority-overseas.html.
How to use this update without getting misled
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Use processing times as a planning range, not a deadline.
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If you want backlog context, IRCC explains inventories and backlogs here:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/reports-statistics/statistics-open-data/immigration-stats/application-inventory.html. -
IRCC has also been improving how it estimates processing times (including forward-looking estimates for some lines):
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/improving-processing-times.html.
FAQs
Are IRCC processing times guaranteed?
No. They are updated estimates, and IRCC says each application can take different time.
When does IRCC start counting processing time?
When IRCC receives your complete application (online: submission time; paper: when it arrives).
Where do I check official service standards?
Use IRCC’s service standards page: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/service-declaration/service-standards.html.
Reality check
Processing times can go up even if you did everything right, and they can go down without meaning your file will be fast. If your status, travel, job start date, or school start date depends on timing, always re-check IRCC’s tool close to the decision point and plan for delays.
