PR Processing Times Rise: Skilled Worker Program Jumps One Month in September Update
Canada's immigration department released updated permanent residence processing times on September 3, showing lengthening wait times for Federal Skilled Worker Program and spousal sponsorship applications.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published updated processing time estimates on September 3, 2026, for permanent residence and citizenship applications. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) saw processing times increase by one month, marking the largest rise recorded in the update. Spousal sponsorship applications outside Canada and outside Quebec also rose by one month. The inventory for FSWP applications increased by 1,400 applications.
What Changed
- FSWP: Processing time extended by approximately one month as inventory grew
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): No change in processing times, despite 800 applications processed
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Both enhanced and base PNP processing remained stable
- Spousal Sponsorship: Outside Quebec, outside Canada applications saw a one-month increase
These updates reflect ongoing capacity pressures within IRCC as application volumes remain high. Federal Skilled Worker applicants should factor in longer wait times when planning PR timelines and adjust expectations accordingly. If you are a PR applicant currently in Canada with an expiring work permit, consider applying for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) before your current work authorization expires—this allows you to maintain legal status while your PR application is being processed.
Sources
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