Many applicants may find delays in the processing of their immigration applications. While Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made headway in trying to reduce these delays, long waiting periods are often a common experience.
The Webform
The IRCC Webform is an online form that the immigration department uses to answer any questions that applicants may have regarding their specific application.
This route is specifically for those who want to enquire about a submitted application that has exceeded processing times, as well as those who want to update important details of their application. In addition, the form can be used by those who:
- Wish to add/change/update their use of a representative in an application, and are ready to submit supporting documents to do so;
- Require urgent processing or replacement of their PR card (provided they meet certain criteria); and
- Wish to report a technical issue with IRCC online services.
On average, it takes roughly 30 days to receive a response from IRCC through this channel (though this can depend on the complexity of the request, and if further information is needed). IRCC will not respond to your webform request if your application is still within official processing time limits. Also, note that it may take up to five business days for the department to update your application via information submitted through the webform.
For more information on specific use cases, and to access the webform itself, click here.
Email
IRCC can also be contacted (to a limited degree) by email. This method is for those who have general or technical questions that they would like to ask the department.
IRCC usually recommends checking their popular questions webpage prior to contacting the department by email. However, if the answer to an applicant’s query cannot be found through this webpage, they can email:
Importantly, this mode of communication can be a common target for scammers, who look to trick newcomers into giving personal information (including bank details) by posing as IRCC. Newcomers should remember that there are certain things IRCC will never ask for via email.
It usually takes 2-5 business days to get a response from IRCC by email, though it should be noted that their ability to answer specific questions regarding your case is limited through this channel.
Phone
The final method of reaching IRCC is via phone—however this option is only available to those within Canada. IRCC has both an automated and human-operated phone line, which have different availabilities and conditions.
Client support center agent (IRCC’s human-operated phone line) can be accessed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. This line—available in both English and French—allows applicants to get help with general and case specific enquiries. Newcomers should keep in mind that client support agents cannot make decisions on your applications, nor can they help process applications faster if you are not eligible for urgent processing.
The automated telephone service, on the other hand, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; and allows applicants to check the status of their application and listen to pre-recorded information about IRCC’s programs.
Newcomers can use the following phone number (for both lines), to contact IRCC (from within Canada only): 1-888-242-2100.