The outbreak of COVID-19 has affected many. This article briefly covers the effects of COVID-19 on applications submitted to  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

New Applications

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to accept applications for permanent residence. However, due to COVID-19, an estimated processing time cannot be given, and applications from Canadians returning to the country, vulnerable groups, and people who perform or support essential services are prioritized. The deadline for Express Entry applicants to submit their application has been extended to 90 days.

Applications being Processed

Many of the documents required for permanent residence applications have been delayed because of COVID-19. As a result, IRCC is automatically giving applicants 90-day extensions from the deadline on the request letter to submit their required documents. In addition, electronic versions of language test results or educational credential assessment reports will now be accepted for applications. 

Application Withdrawal

Individuals who are affected by travel restrictions may withdraw their permanent residence application using Webform. A refund will be given if the application is withdrawn within 24 hours of submission or before it starts getting processed. 

Directly retrieved from: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/coronavirus-covid19/immigration-applicants.html