Last Updated On 19 February 2026, 12:26 PM EST (Toronto Time)
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released its latest application inventory data on Feb 17, 2026. The overall backlog — files past their service standards — has climbed to 1,014,700 applications as of Dec 31, 2025. This figure reflects a rise from the prior snapshot at the end of November 2025. IRCC backlog update and breakdown (Immigration News Canada)
Officially, IRCC defines inventory as all applications being processed (including those still within normal timelines) and backlog as applications that have exceeded the published service standards. Understanding IRCC application inventories (Government of Canada)
Where the backlog is growing
-
Permanent residence (PR) — Over half of all backlogged cases are now PR applications, indicating growing pressure on pathways like Express Entry and provincial nominee categories.
-
Temporary residence (visitor, study, work) shows some improvement, with a smaller proportion past service standards compared with previous months.
-
Citizenship grant applications continue to rise slightly in backlog share, though at lower overall levels than PR or temporary streams.
What this means for you
If you’re waiting for a decision:
-
A higher backlog doesn’t mean refusal — it means longer waits than service standards predict.
-
You can check official estimated times using the IRCC tool here: Check current IRCC processing times (Government of Canada)
-
When your file is well past the posted timeline, you may submit an IRCC web form inquiry or request GCMS notes to understand your file’s status — but these don’t guarantee faster decisions.
Why backlogs matter
IRCC aims to process about 80 % of applications within service standards (such as about 6 months for most Express Entry streams), but demand and limited processing capacity mean many cases wait longer.
FAQs
Is backlog the same as processing time?
No. Backlog is a count of files past service standards. Processing times are estimates for how long decisions may take.
Does being “in backlog” mean refusal is coming?
No. It usually means IRCC has not finalized the application within the standard timeframe.
Where should I check official updates?
Start with IRCC’s application inventory page and the processing times tool.
Reality check
-
Backlogs fluctuate monthly — what matters most for applicants is whether your application is moving.
-
Keeping documents complete and current can help avoid avoidable delays.
-
Build plans that don’t assume a “quick decision,” especially if you’re basing travel, work, or studies on a pending application.
