Canada's immigration system is grappling with unprecedented delays and a growing backlog, prompting fears of widespread application cancellations. Legal experts and applicants are expressing concerns that the federal government may be preparing to annul large numbers of pending immigration applications. Renowned immigration lawyer Steven Meurrens has warned that the government appears to be setting the stage for mass cancellations through Bill C-12, a new border security proposal that would grant Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expanded powers.
Escalating Delays Across Immigration Streams
Processing times across nearly every major immigration stream have worsened dramatically since May 2024. Citizenship applications that once averaged eight months now take thirteen, while family sponsorships have nearly doubled in duration. Even fast-track programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program have seen processing times balloon from six months to thirty-seven. Temporary residents—workers, students, and visitors—are also experiencing cascading delays, with work-permit renewals inside Canada now averaging more than seven months, and visitor visas from India taking more than triple the previous waiting time.
The Impending Threat of Mass Cancellations
The federal government's silence on the issue has led to speculation that the solution may involve Bill C-12, which would grant IRCC the authority to cancel applications en masse. This has raised concerns among applicants who have been waiting for years, as another legislative reset could have chilling consequences. Critics argue that the government's approach confirms what months of data already show: IRCC is losing control of its processing system while quietly equipping itself with new authority to erase its own backlog .
A Humanitarian Crisis in the Making
The delays and potential cancellations are not just administrative issues—they have real-world consequences for individuals and families. Programs such as Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) and Federal Self-Employed are now labeled as “more than ten years,” making it impossible for applicants to project completion timelines. Entrepreneurs under the Start-Up Visa program cannot launch ventures based on approval timelines measured in decades, and caregivers face nine-year waits. Students are losing entire academic years waiting for study-permit extensions .
Political and Public Response
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab has acknowledged that the system must be “restored to balance.” However, Ottawa's solution so far has been to lower admission targets, not accelerate decisions. This approach has led to widespread frustration among applicants and experts alike, who argue that the government's actions are exacerbating the crisis rather than addressing it .
Looking Ahead
As Canada approaches a pivotal moment in its immigration policy, the potential for mass application cancellations looms large. The government's next steps will be critical in determining the future of Canada's immigration system and the lives of those who depend on it. Applicants and legal experts continue to call for transparency, accountability, and a more humane approach to immigration reform.