ÖйúpÕ¾

Immigration Resources

IRCC Processing Times

IRCC processing times vary depending on the type of application, the volume of applications received, and other factors. You can check the estimated processing times on the website to understand how long it may take to receive a decision on your application.

IRCC application system

You can save your application and return to complete it at a later time. When you sign in to your , select your application under the “In Progress” section to continue.

You have 60 days to complete and submit your online application after starting it. If you do not submit your application within this timeframe, it will be automatically deleted from your account.

Document format

Before uploading your documents, make sure they meet IRCC’s file format and size requirements.

• Each file must be no larger than 4 MB (megabytes).
• Accepted file formats include:
• PDF (Portable Document Format)
• JPG, TIFF, or PNG (image formats)
• DOC or DOCX (Microsoft Word documents)
• All forms and supporting documents must be submitted electronically through the IRCC online application system.

For more information, visit the IRCC Help Centre:

Photo specifications

When submitting a photo for your application, ensure that it meets IRCC requirements. Your face must be:

• Facing the camera directly and centered
• Displaying a neutral expression (no frowning or smiling)
• With your mouth closed

For more information, visit IRCC webpages:

Biometrics

Most applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 are required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photo), with some exceptions.

The biometric fee is generally CAD $85 per person. If you have provided biometrics for a previous visa application within the last 10 years and they are still valid, you may not need to provide them again when applying to visit, study, or work in Canada.

You can use to confirm whether your biometrics are still valid.

For more information, please visit ’ webpage.

Medical Exam

Depending on your personal circumstances and the type of immigration application you are submitting, IRCC may require you to complete an .

You may be required to complete an IME if you:

• Plan to work in certain occupations, such as health care, child care, or other positions where a medical exam is required; or
• Have lived in or travelled to certain countries or territories for a specified period of time.

If an IME is required, you may have the option to complete an upfront medical exam before submitting your application. Medical exams must be completed by an IRCC-approved Panel Physician.

How to Complete an Immigration Medical Examination (IME)

1. Find an from IRCC’s list. Only designated Panel Physicians are authorized to complete immigration medical exams.
2. Complete your medical exam with the Panel Physician. The physician will submit your medical exam results directly to IRCC.
3. Request proof of completion, such as an eMedical information sheet, receipt, or confirmation document from the physician.
4. Include the proof of completion with your immigration application, if required.

IRCC has introduced a temporary public policy that may allow certain applicants to use a previous IME instead of completing a new one. If you completed an IME within the applicable timeframe and meet the eligibility requirements, you may be able to provide your previous IME number (also known as the Unique Medical Identifier (UMI)) with your new application.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the IRCC webpages:

The content on this page reflects the information available at the time of its publication. It is important to acknowledge that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and other government departments regularly revise their policies. For the latest information, please visit (IRCC) website. 

Latest Updated: July 24, 2026.