Immigrating to Canada during a pandemic can be a challenge for new permanent residents and many may be wondering how the government is addressing the situation.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has issued guidelines for permanent residence applicants who were planning to arrive and settle in Canada in the coming months and who may have seen the pandemic affect their plans.
The latest COVID-19 program delivery instructions for applications for permanent residence applicants in Canada and abroad were published on May 29, 2020, by IRCC.
New permanent residence intake continues
Currently, the receipt of new applications for permanent residence continues.
Files that are incomplete due to missing documentation will be retained and reviewed within 90 days.
Completed new applications for permanent residence continue to be processed according to normal procedures.
However, if a new application lacks supporting documentation, an explanation should be added to the application referencing service interruptions due to coronavirus-related travel restrictions. Providing that explanation is important and may result in the application being promoted and reviewed within 90 days. New applications will be processed in the order in which they are received.
Failure to provide an explanation for an incomplete application or applications that are incomplete for reasons unrelated to the coronavirus pandemic may result in the file being rejected.
Principal applicants for permanent residents who are in Canada and have dependents abroad will continue to have their applications processed, but delays in processing may occur. However, the principal applicant should not be granted permanent residence if their dependents who are abroad are unable to travel.
When travel is again possible, applicants will be informed of the next steps.
