IRCC provides applicants with a variety of viable methods to communicate with them regarding application updates and other matters. Processing delays may occur during the Canadian immigration application process for candidates. Waiting times have generally been longer, even though IRCC has implemented a variety of initiatives to reduce processing times.
How candidates can contact IRCC concerning application updates
Nevertheless, there are legitimate channels for applicants to address their application issues with the IRCC. Previously, these pathways have been advantageous for candidates.
IRCC’s Client Support Center
Currently, IRCC’s Client Support Center handles a large number of applications across multiple platforms. According to the most recent available data, between April and October 2022, IRCC handled a total of 8.3 million questions via phone or email. Approximately 6.6 million inquiries were received over the phone, with 1.5 million sent via email. In the future, this figure will only rise.
The webform
IRCC utilizes its Webform, a digital form, to address the applicant’s specific application inquiries. This particular channel is designed for individuals who wish to consult about an application they have submitted. In essence, this may pertain to the update of the most recent information within an application or the delay in the processing of an application. Furthermore, the subsequent applicants are eligible to utilize the form:
- Supporting documentation must be submitted by individuals who desire to update, add, or modify their representational usage in an application.
- Applicants who require the urgent processing or replacement of their PR cards. Nevertheless, they are required to satisfy specific criteria.
- Individuals who wish to inform IRCC of technical difficulties with their online services.
IRCC typically responds to inquiries through this digital channel within approximately 30 days. Nevertheless, the department’s response time will be contingent upon the complexity of the request and whether additional information is required from the applicant. IRCC will only respond to your inquiry if your application is within the standard processing time. Additionally, the Webform information input will necessitate a minimum of five days for IRCC to update the application.
Correspondence via Email
For technical or general inquiries, applicants may reach out to IRCC via email. Typically, IRCC advises applicants to consult its official inquiries online before contacting the immigration service via email. If candidates do not receive a response to their online query, they may contact IRCC via email.
In essence, this internet chat channel is a common method for scammers to deceive novices into disclosing their confidential information. These may encompass bank information, and fraudsters may pose as representatives of the IRCC. Candidates must, however, bear in mind that IRCC would never request specific facts from them via email, such as the following, to ensure their security:
- Basic information to verify the personal information they submitted on their application form.
- Please provide your credit card or banking information via email for payment.
- Exchange any form of immigration documentation, such as visas, certifications, and permits.
- Limited-time promotions, special offers, and even cash bargains for Canadian citizenship, permits, or visas.
Furthermore, it may require a minimum of two days for IRCC to respond to your email inquiries. Furthermore, their capacity to respond via email may be restricted by this digital medium, contingent upon their specific circumstances.
Phone: Another way to contact IRCC regarding application updates.
The final method of communication with the IRCC is by phone. Conversely, this option will be available exclusively to Canadian residents. In the department, there are two phone lines: one is operated by individuals, while the other is automated. Both of these are subject to a diverse array of criteria and availability levels.
Applicants from Canada may contact the Client Support Center Agent Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The telephone line that receives messages is this one. This type of line is accessible in both English and French, and it can provide applicants with assistance with both general and specific individual inquiries.
New immigrants need to be aware that client assistance representatives are not authorized to make decisions regarding applications. Furthermore, they are unable to expedite the application procedure because your case does not qualify for urgent processing.
Conversely, automated telephone services are available 24/7, regardless of the time of day. Furthermore, applicants can access the status of their applications and the information they have already submitted regarding the IRCC program.
IRCC can be contacted by newcomers in Canada at 1-888-242-2100. This pertains to both lines.
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Benefits of Ways For Applicants to Contact IRCC
- Timely Information: By establishing direct communication with IRCC, you can ensure that you are informed of any updates, delays, or necessary actions and that you are informed of the most recent status of your application.
- Clarification of Requirements: If you receive communication from IRCC that is unclear or perplexing, it may be beneficial to contact them directly to further clarify the necessary information, thereby avoiding potential delays that may result from misunderstandings.
- Issue Resolution: If your application is delayed due to missing documents or inaccurate information, contacting IRCC can assist in expediting the resolution of these issues, thereby ensuring that your application remains on track.
- Peace of Mind: Consistent updates from IRCC can alleviate anxiety and uncertainty regarding the status of your application, offering you reassurance and unambiguous expectations.
- Potential for Accelerated Processing: In certain circumstances, contacting IRCC may result in expedited processing, particularly if your situation is urgent or you have a genuine reason for requiring faster service.
- Documentation of Communication: Recording your interactions with IRCC and contacting them can serve as evidence of your diligence in following up on your application, which may be beneficial in the event of disputes or appeals.
- Access to Additional Resources: Representatives from the IRCC can direct you to supplementary resources, tools, or services that may assist you in more effectively managing your application process or addressing specific concerns.
- Understanding the Next stages: By contacting IRCC, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the upcoming stages in the process, thereby ensuring that you are adequately prepared for any interviews, supplementary documentation, or other requirements that may arise.
GCMS Notes:
Global Case Management System. Documents that are stored in the universal software system of IRCC are referred to as notes. They are responsible for the storage and processing of applications that are received by the IRCC.
These GCMS notes were saved by immigration authorities during the application processing procedure and are included in the program. These notes are routinely stored by the software and are also saved by default.
The remarks provided by the GCMS provide applicants with essential information regarding the following:
- A particular application and the associated data. This includes the date the application was received, the date the IRCC authorities opened it, the code of the immigration officer examining the application, the application status, and the reason for it.
- All information concerning the application was gathered by IRCC.
- A third-party representative transmits information to the IRCC.
Access to Information and Privacy requests encompass GCMS documents. ATIPs are employed by the Canadian government to collect data on Canadians and residents of Canada. Additionally, the ATIP request is subject to a 30-day response deadline from the Canadian government. Nevertheless, the IRCC may respond that it requires additional time to process the request.
Conversely, candidates who reside outside of Canada who wish to submit applications for these GCMS notes must establish a connection with a representative and possess the following qualifications:
- Citizenship bearers of Canada
- permanent inhabitants
- organizations or individuals situated in Canada
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I check for updates on my Canada visa application?
Once you’re on the Government of Canada website, navigate to the “Immigration and Citizenship” section. From there, you can find the “Check your application status” page. You can click on this page to check the status of your visa application.
How do I follow up on a Canada application?
You can get your application status in the citizenship application tracker. If you’ve used the application status tracker (opens in a new tab) before, you may be able to use the same information to sign in to the citizenship application tracker. If not, you’ll need to create a citizenship tracker account.
What does it mean when IRCC says your application is in progress?
Overall status
At the top of the page, one of these statuses will be displayed: Received means we got your application and are checking to see if it’s complete. In progress means we’re still reviewing your application. You can also see the progress for each section of your application.
