Maple News reports that as immigration backlogs continue, many applicants are experiencing prolonged wait times when dealing with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). While the government has dedicated efforts to reduce processing delays, high application volumes and limited client support resources have left many individuals wondering how best to communicate with IRCC regarding their files.
According to IRCC data from April to October 2022, the department received over 8.3 million inquiries—6.6 million by phone and 1.5 million by email—highlighting the staggering demand on the client support centre. These figures are only expected to rise, making it crucial for applicants to know the most effective ways to reach officials.
One of the most reliable methods is the IRCC Webform. This online tool allows applicants to raise concerns about application delays—specifically if their case has exceeded standard processing times—or to provide updates, such as changing contact information or uploading requested documents. Applicants can also use the Webform to:
– Update or add an immigration representative and submit supporting forms
– Request urgent processing of a Permanent Resident (PR) card, if eligible
– Report technical issues with IRCC’s online services
Response times for Webform submissions are generally around 30 days, but may vary depending on case complexity. It typically takes up to five business days for changes to reflect on an application. Notably, if your application is still within normal processing standards, IRCC may not respond to the Webform inquiry at all.
Email communication remains an option, though its scope is more limited. It’s primarily recommended for general inquiries or technical problems. Applicants are encouraged to consult IRCC’s Help Centre webpage before reaching out via email to ensure their question isn’t already answered online.
Given the volume of inquiries, prompt responses are not guaranteed. Current trends suggest that self-service options—like checking the status of an application online or navigating IRCC’s resource pages—may offer quicker clarity than one-on-one communication.
As updates continue to emerge amid evolving immigration volumes, Maple News encourages applicants to monitor official IRCC channels and keep a record of any correspondence they initiate using the Webform or email.