Understanding the Process and Timeline for Canadian PR through the CEC in 2022
The Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) program, particularly through the Comprehensive Economic and Immigration Program (CEC), has seen significant changes in recent years. With the ever-evolving global situation, the timeline for obtaining a Canadian PR (Permanent Resident) card has become more unpredictable. However, understanding the current status and steps involved can help you plan more effectively.
The Current Situation in 2022
As of 2022, due to the backlog in processing times, it is becoming increasingly difficult to predict exactly how long it will take to get Canadian PR through the CEC (Comprehensive Economic Class). The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has experienced a significant increase in applications and a consequential delay in processing. As a result, applicants can be waiting upwards of 36 months or even longer.
Steps for Applying for Canadian PR via CEC
1. Creating an Express Entry Profile
For those interested in applying for Canadian PR through the CEC, the first step is to create an Express Entry profile. This online platform is designed to identify the best candidates for Canada’s labor market. Your profile will be ranked based on criteria such as age, education, work experience, and language ability.
2. Receiving an ITA (Invitation to Apply)
When your profile matches the criteria for a given Express Entry draw, you will be issued an ITA (Invitation to Apply). This is your official invitation from IRCC to submit a complete application. It is crucial to act quickly upon receiving an ITA to avoid delays in your processing time.
The ITA is an invitation to apply for Canadian PR, and to maximize your chances of success, it is important to have all the required documents and application fees ready. IRCC estimates that it takes, on average, 11 months to process an application after an ITA is issued.
3. Processing Times for Applications
After receiving an ITA, it is essential to keep track of processing times. On average, it takes approximately 11 months for the IRCC to process your application. However, due to the current backlog, processing times may vary significantly. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the application status to stay updated on the progress.
What to Do if You Don’t Receive an ITA
If you do not receive an ITA within 12 months of creating your Express Entry profile, it is still valid. You should reevaluate your eligibility and submit an updated Express Entry profile. It’s also a good idea to check the status of your previous application to ensure that it has not been lost or misplaced.
Conclusion
While the timeline for Canadian PR through the CEC is currently uncertain due to the backlog, following these steps and maintaining regular updates can help you manage your application more effectively. Staying informed about processing times and being proactive in your approach can significantly impact the overall success of your application.