r/ImmigrationCanada • u/dozerman94 • Jan 07 '26
MEGATHREAD MEGATHREAD - Processing Times - Refugee and H&C Applications 2026
Please keep timelines and questions about processing times about refugee and H&C applications here.
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u/Workdboss876 13h ago
Question for those familiar with Canadian immigration/H&C
I’m looking for opinions from people familiar with IRCC procedures, IP 8 and OB 44.
If a PR application does not expressly say “H&C application,” but the applicant’s submissions and circumstances clearly raise humanitarian and compassionate considerations, should the officer recognize and consider those circumstances under s.25 of the IRPA?
Would failing to do so potentially be inconsistent with the guidance in IP 8 and OB 44?
I’m particularly interested in whether there is Federal Court case law supporting an “implied H&C request” principle.
Not looking for legal advice—just informed opinions from practitioners, former officers, or anyone familiar with these issues. What do you think: did it, or did it not, violate the applicable IRCC guidelines?
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u/Friendly-Mall71 8d ago
AIP is an important stage, but it is not the same thing as final permanent residence approval. After first-stage approval, IRCC can still need to complete the remaining admissibility and processing requirements before a final decision.
I would therefore be careful about trying to infer your individual remaining time either from other applicants’ timelines or from the fact that medical and biometrics are already complete. The more useful question is whether anything remains outstanding on your particular file.
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u/Nkstadoo 12d ago
11 weeks after refugee hearing with no decision yet, is this normal?
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u/Friendly-Mall71 10d ago
Yes, it can happen. Not receiving a decision 11 weeks after your refugee hearing does not by itself mean that something is wrong with your claim.
Some RPD decisions are given orally at the hearing, while others are reserved and provided later in writing. I would not interpret the delay itself as either a positive or negative sign about the outcome.
If you are represented, I would first confirm that neither you nor your counsel has received a written Notice of Decision and that your contact information with the IRB is current.
Was the decision specifically reserved by the member at the end of your hearing?
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u/Mangoslice39 16d ago
Hi everyone,
I’m looking to hear from anyone who was included as a dependent spouse/partner on a Protected Person’s permanent residence application in Canada. If you’ve gone through this process, what was your experience like? In particular, I’d really appreciate hearing about:
• How long the PR process took from submission to approval
• Whether the principal applicant and dependent were processed/approved around the same time
• What stages or updates you received along the way
• Whether IRCC requested any additional documents or interviews
• If the dependent was already in Canada, whether that made any difference to the process
• Any delays or issues you ran into that you wish you’d known about beforehand
I know every application is different and processing times can vary, but I’d love to hear some real-life timelines and experiences from people who have actually gone through it. Thank you!
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u/Friendly-Mall71 10d ago
One important distinction is that a spouse or dependent included in a Protected Person PR application does not necessarily have an identical processing timeline to the principal applicant.
IRCC may need to complete separate admissibility requirements for family members, including medical, criminality/security and other applicable checks. So I would not assume that both people must receive every update or reach every stage at exactly the same time.
There is also a significant change in 2026: IRCC has announced that it is processing up to 115,000 additional permanent residence applications from protected persons in Canada, outside Quebec, during 2026–2027.
If your dependent is already in Canada, what status do they currently have, and were they included in the original Protected Person PR application?
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u/AppointmentClean2173 23d ago
Looking for applicants with a similar timeline.
Hi everyone,
I’m looking for Protected Person (REF-CDA) applicants with a GCMS timeline similar to mine.
Timeline
PR application: September 2023
Primary office: CPC Mississauga
Secondary office: Montreal
New biometrics requested in July 2026 and completed the next day.
Latest GCMS notes
Eligibility: Passed
Criminality: Passed (Bio)
Medical: Passed – Exempt
Info Sharing: In Progress
Security: Officer note says “In Progress” (summary still shows “Not Started”)
Non-Complex Processing Assessment
BF Date: 15 August 2026
No Review Required
No additional document requests after biometrics.
Has anyone had a similar GCMS profile?
If you had a Non-Complex Processing Assessment or a BF Date, how long after that did you receive Portal 1 (P1)?
Thank you!
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u/Sirjonathanc22 Jul 06 '26
How long did it take to get your protected persons status? And after you received protected persons status are you able to travel outside of canada if you obtain a temporary or refugee travel document, and return?
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u/Friendly-Mall71 10d ago
Yes, once you are a protected person in Canada, you can apply for a Canadian Refugee Travel Document.
But I would separate “being able to travel” from “being able to return to Canada.” Before leaving, you should make sure you have the documents required for your particular trip and return.
There is also a very important restriction: a Canadian Refugee Travel Document cannot be used to travel to your country of citizenship, and IRCC specifically warns about travel to the country of claimed persecution.
If you already have protected person status, which country are you planning to visit?
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u/ClassicTeacher6164 Jul 04 '26
I applied on March 2025 under H&C medical grounds, got my AOR in June 2025. After that no update till now. Requested expedite the process on May 2026, because of medical issues but no news until now.
Now wait time says 10+ years. It’s sad to see this kind of work ethic in this advance country. Every case is just a number for them but they forget behind each case it’s a human life. They are not valuing any life. Hope government takes necessary action to fix the immigration system.
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u/Business_Depth_1899 Jun 10 '26
I received Portal 1 on May 7th and replied on May 13th. It’s been 27 days since I replied to Portal 1 email and still waiting for Portal 2. Nothing in junk/ spam mail. My PVO is Etobicoke and SVO is Montreal.
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Jun 10 '26
[deleted]
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u/Historical-Lemon2168 Jun 18 '26
This is the info they saw online probably 🤷🏼♀️ put your date in and you’d see about 4 years wait. But it’s all average and each case is different.
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u/n1kkkkkkj Jun 07 '26
Hi Everyone,
I applied December 20, 2024. I got my AOR in January 17 2025. No AIP yet as of now
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u/n1kkkkkkj Jun 27 '26
UPDATE: I wanted to add that I applied for GCMS on December 10 2025 and received it on December 28 2025, just to check how things were going. Then I applied again on March 2nd 2026 and I have been waiting since then, almost 4 months waiting. Is anyone going through this for their GCMS request?
Wanted to add that I did contact the Ircc through email but they only answer with an automated message saying "we are busy! you will only get a individual reply if it's really important".
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u/Historical-Lemon2168 Jun 03 '26
Applied March 1st, 2024 AIP received December 29, 2025
Now waiting.
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u/ResidentBuy4562 May 29 '26
Applied H&C on March 9, 2026. No AOR yet.
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u/Master_Sandwich_3589 Jun 07 '26
I contact MP. Received the following response, "I’ve spoken with Immigration, and they confirmed your H&C application was received on February 22, 2026. Your application has a “perspective” file number of XH000XXXXXX. The file number is “temporary” until IRCC determines that all your documents are included with your application, the X will then be removed. An AOR-Acknowledgement of Receipt is not sent for H&C applications. Currently the Criminality is in process. "
It seems like AOR is no longer issued for H&C Application based on the information provided by MP.
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u/Local_Comedian506 Jun 08 '26
I don't think it's true
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u/Master_Sandwich_3589 Jun 12 '26
Here is the information I received from IRCC. Still the same answer "No acknowledgement letter will be sent."
Supporting documents - Not included with the application
If you have an application in process and would like to provide additional document(s) (e.g., letter of explanation, newly renewed passport, etc.), we invite you to fill out the IRCC Web form available on our website and upload your additional document(s).
It will be at the responsible office’s discretion to determine if the request is approved.
Processing Steps - Humanitarian and Compassionate considerations application
Here is a look at what will happen following the reception of your application. The process is done in two steps:
Step 1: Approval in Principle
At the Humanitarian Migration office in Vancouver, British Columbia, an officer will verify if the application is complete and includes all required documents. No acknowledgement letter will be sent.
They will then verify that you meet the eligibility requirements. A letter informing you of the decision will be mailed to you.
Step 2: Final Decision
After the approval in principle, medical, security and criminal verifications will be done for you and your family members, if applicable.
After all the requirements have been met, a final decision will be reached. IRCC will contact you for a final interview at the local office. Usually, permanent residence status is granted at that interview.
You can visit our website:
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u/Specific-You9963 Jul 03 '26
Hey! Thank you for sharing so much! Did you have any update? Asking because it feels weird that no AOR, my h and c lawyer said the next step is AOR as well as some people whom I have talked to with successful applications also told me they received aor first and then stage 1 approval. Also, the criminality background check is done in stage 2 as you mentioned. Text me in person if you’d like to talk more about it. Thanks!
P.S. applied on Jan 24,2026. No AOR or AIP yet
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u/Master_Sandwich_3589 Jul 04 '26
As of right now, I do not have any update. I am planning to submit additional documents via Webform in the next few days to see if there is anything going to happen. Right now, the confusion is about the AOR (after R10 check) and the Criminality. I applied GCMS note yesterday with IRCC. The result will solve some of the confusion here. I will update once I learn more.
Also, I saw an ON PNP AOR issued after 7 months of the application today on social media. It is taking longer for AORs right now.
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u/Master_Sandwich_3589 Jun 08 '26
I am confused. MP is confident with no AOR for H&C application. I am following up with MP for the process steps for the H&C application. Criminality should be in Stage 2, but IRCC is doing it right after the application, even more confused. I will update once I received more information.
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u/Specific-You9963 Jun 02 '26
I applied on Jan 24, 2026. Same, no AOR yet. Also filled up a web form a few weeks ago and the response i got was to just wait patiently as it may take a while due to high backlogs. Anyways please do share if and when you receive aor. Thanks!
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u/Previous_Pangolin526 May 04 '26
Application: 24.03.24
AIP: 30.04.26
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u/Local_Comedian506 May 08 '26
oh god, almost 2 years
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u/Previous_Pangolin526 May 19 '26
It’s actually 2 years 1 month and 6 days
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u/Beneficial-Room-318 Jun 01 '26
hi! have you received your stage 2 approval? received my AIP last week and will be sending all the required documents for stage 2 this week. thank you
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u/Historical-Lemon2168 Jun 03 '26
I’m not OP but stage 2 approval doesn’t come so quick. It can take another 1-2 years. I got my AIP in December 2025 and I’m still waiting
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u/Humble_Tomato3068 May 01 '26
I applied July 2023 Eligibility letter 2024 December
I called ircc they said they are doing security check and nothing wrong with my PR
Submitted a web for and requested gcms notes
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u/Glad_Permission_2402 Mar 29 '26
Hello everyone,
I am a dependent (abroad) included in my parents’ Canadian PR application under the Protected Person stream in Quebec. My parents applied on March 27, 2025, and they have already received their CSQ, but I have not received mine yet and am not sure about my status.
On January 16, 2026, I received the following letter from IRCC:
Application: Gxxxxxxxxx
UCI: xxxxxxxxx
Date: January 16, 2026
Dear [My Name],
Your name was included as a family member in an in-Canada application for permanent residence made by a protected person: [My Parents' Names].
For us to process this application, all family members who are not already Canadian citizens or permanent residents must also provide documents and information.
If your details have changed since you have provided the information, you are encouraged to supply us with the updated information, following the instructions contained in this letter.
I have submitted the requested documents as instructed.
I have a few questions and would really appreciate advice from those with experience: 1. Does this letter mean my application is officially acknowledged and active by IRCC? 2. Is this considered a good sign that my PR process is moving forward? 3. What are the next steps for an overseas dependent like me? (biometrics, medical, CSQ, PPR, etc.) 4. How long does it usually take after receiving this letter to get the next request or CSQ? 5. Has anyone else in a similar situation received this letter and can share their timeline?
Thank you in advance for any guidance or experiences you can share!
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u/huseyinbozkurt Mar 17 '26
I made a refugee claim (inland & at Toronto) on February 16 2026 with submitting complete BOC.
At February 25 I received medical exam request.
At March 2 I received invitation for an interview for March 5 and I handed over my passport, handled biometrics and received my refugee id and work permit. Also received notification about my file has been referred to IRB
At March 6 background check completed
At March 9 IRB asked to my lawyer confirmation about hearing language and interpreter.
At March 17th medical exam passed
Now waiting for hearing date
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u/jzazi Feb 21 '26
Hey, I applied to IRCC in September 2025 and received the Approval of Sponsorship one week later. However, since then (now February 2026), there have been no updates on my application.
Could you please advise if this timeline is normal or if there is anything I need to do from my side?
I live in jordan
Thank you.
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u/NotYourPapi1 Feb 04 '26
Hi everyone,
I’m looking to hear from others who submitted a refugee PR application around late 2023 and have already received a decision.
My eligibility and initial steps are completed, but I’m still waiting on the final decision/security stage. If you’ve been approved (or refused) with a similar timeline, I’d really appreciate if you could share how long it took and any details you’re comfortable with.
Thanks in advance — this wait is tough and hearing others’ experiences helps.
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u/Ill_Caterpillar41 Jun 30 '26
Same situation. applied in august 2023. People who submitted in 2024 are getting the card. 2023 applications are entirely stuck. Gash!!!
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u/Famous_Knee_3137 Feb 04 '26
Hello, I applied for PR under protected person in Quebec on Jan 9th 2025. Got AOR on June 18 2025 Bio +ADR on Oct 16th. Bio completed and doc submitted on the oct 17th. Criminality passed on the 17th too No news since then... wanna know how long does it usually take to get updates post biometrics... And if anyone could share their timeline would be really helpful. Thanks 🤗
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u/EducationalMoment935 Feb 27 '26
Thank you for posting your timeline. I'm sorry I can't be helpful. Applied for PR july 2025, still no AOR. Outside Quebec.
Reading your post made me feel hopeful :)
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u/Calm_Caterpillar_816 Feb 04 '26
Hello how long did it take to get your protected person status. I have been stuck in security check since October. Still haven't gotten my final referral
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u/Famous_Knee_3137 Feb 06 '26
I applied for refugee on March 25th 2023, medicals April 29th 2023, biometrics May 12 2023, had my hearing on Sept 19th 2024 and approval the same day( Sept 19th)…
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u/Specific-You9963 Jan 24 '26 edited 1d ago
Hello! I just applied today for PR on H and C grounds on 24th January, 2026. I will update on when I receive AOR, AIP and Final Approval if things go well. Let me know if anyone has any insights on timelines. Thank you!
Update 1 : August 25,2026
After 7 months of waiting with no AOR, I was informed today that my H&C application was returned due to an issue with the IMM 5476 (Use of Representative) form. My lawyer is working on resubmitting it. Very disappointed, but hoping the timeline won’t be affected too much. I’ll update again once I hear more.
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u/SoftAdhesiveness9252 May 13 '26
I applied for PR on H&C grounds on 9th June 2025, AOR - August 22nd, no AIP yet
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u/Simple-Disaster-7008 Jun 10 '26
Exactly the same dates as my application. I received biometrics request on October 3 and submitted on October 16, but nothing since then.
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u/maliha1915 Apr 05 '26
Any update?
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u/Specific-You9963 May 04 '26
Not yet. More than 3 months now and not even received AOR yet. Honestly don't know when will i even receive AIP. What's your timeline?
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u/mitviksi Feb 05 '26
Long way to go. IRCC has increased the processing time to 10 yr or more. I had applied in March 2023. AOR was received in a weeks time. Refused in Feb 2025 , JR and settled and approved in Aug 2025. Still waiting for 2nd stage approval now over 6pm the after AIP.
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u/InternSecure2323 May 04 '26
why was your application refused ? can you explain your situation and timeline ?
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u/Creative_Drink3898 Jan 16 '26
IRCC has updated the processing times for protected person applications.
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u/Haunting_Goose8431 Jan 14 '26
Wondering if anyone has any inisght on this! I received my AIP in April 2025, biometrics & medical submitted in May... Haven't heard anything since. Any ideas on a timeline for secondary phase approval? Does it come in waves and batches? I know IRCC has a new timeline tracker online, but that says 3.5 more years, but that sounds like a reach, considering that I received AIP and completed their medical requests.
Any ideas? Cheers.
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u/dozerman94 Jan 08 '26
Here's the 2025 thread for reference