After submitting your Canadian immigration application the waiting period can feel long and uncertain. IRCC provides several tools to help you monitor your application status online. The sections below explain how to check your status, what the different status messages mean, and what actions you should take at each stage.
Method 1: IRCC Secure Account (Most Recommended)
Log In to Your IRCC Account
Go to canada.ca and log in to your IRCC Secure Account. This is the account you used to submit your application online. If you applied through a representative, ask them to link your application to a personal account.
View Your Application Status
Once logged in, find your application in the application list. The status column shows the current stage of your application processing.
Check for Messages
IRCC sends all requests for additional documents, medical exam requests, and decision notifications through your secure account messages. Check messages regularly. Important requests have response deadlines.
Understanding IRCC Application Status Messages
Application Received
Your application has been received by IRCC and is in the queue for processing. No action required at this stage.
In Process
Your application is actively being reviewed by an IRCC officer. This is the longest stage and can last several months.
Biometrics Required
IRCC has sent you a Biometric Instruction Letter. You must visit a VAC within 30 days to provide fingerprints and photo.
Medical Required
IRCC requires a medical examination. Book an appointment with a designated panel physician as soon as possible.
Additional Documents Required
IRCC has requested more documents. Check your messages immediately and respond before the stated deadline.
Decision Made
A decision has been made on your application. Log in to see whether it is approved or refused and any next steps.
Method 2: Client Application Status (CAS) Tool
For paper-based applications or if you cannot access your online account, use the Client Application Status (CAS) tool at canada.ca. Enter your application number, date of birth, and UCI number to check status. This tool provides basic status updates and is less detailed than the secure account.
Method 3: IRCC Web Form Inquiry
If your application has exceeded the stated processing time by 30 or more days and you have not received any messages or updates, you can submit a web form inquiry to IRCC. Go to canada.ca and search for Contact IRCC Web Form. Include your application number, UCI number, and date of birth in your inquiry.
What to Do If Your Application Is Delayed
Check Processing Times First
Before assuming your application is delayed compare your wait time to current IRCC processing times for your application type. Normal processing variation does not indicate a problem.
Verify Your Contact Information
Log in and confirm your email and mailing address are correct. IRCC may have tried to reach you with a request you missed.
Submit a Web Form Inquiry
If your application genuinely exceeds stated processing times submit a polite, factual web form inquiry to IRCC asking for a status update.
Contact Your MP
For significant delays you can contact your local Member of Parliament. MPs have liaisons who can make official inquiries to IRCC on your behalf. This sometimes speeds up processing.
Do not submit multiple web form inquiries for the same application. Multiple inquiries do not speed up processing and can frustrate IRCC officers. One inquiry per 30-day period is the appropriate approach.
Written and reviewed by the GuideCAN Editorial Team
Editorially reviewed against IRCC guidance. This article is general information, not immigration or legal advice.
Official sources
Official rules, fees, deadlines and program availability can change. Confirm the current details before acting.