How long does it take to hear back from IRCC?

The Waiting Game: How Long Does it Take to Hear Back from IRCC?

Navigating the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) system can feel like a marathon, especially when you’re waiting for a response. While application processing times are notoriously variable, understanding the timelines for specific requests can alleviate some of the anxiety. This article focuses on response times for Access to Information Act (ATIA) requests submitted to IRCC.

Unlike application processing times, which vary wildly based on factors like application type, location, and individual circumstances, ATIA requests have a more defined timeframe. IRCC aims to respond to formal ATIA requests within 30 days.

Understanding the 30-Day Target:

It’s crucial to understand that the 30-day timeframe is a target, not a guaranteed turnaround. Several factors can influence the actual response time, including:

• Complexity of the Request: A simple request for a specific document will likely be processed faster than a complex request involving multiple files or extensive research.
• Volume of Requests: IRCC receives a significant number of ATIA requests. During periods of high demand, processing times may exceed the 30-day target.
• Resource Availability: Like any government agency, IRCC’s capacity to process requests is influenced by staffing levels and available resources.
• Information Retrieval: Locating and retrieving the requested information can sometimes be a time-consuming process, especially if the information is not readily accessible.

What to Do if You Haven’t Heard Back:

If your ATIA request has exceeded the 30-day target, you have options:

• Check Your Correspondence: Review your initial submission and any subsequent communications from IRCC to ensure there haven’t been any miscommunications or requests for additional information.
• Contact IRCC Directly: If you haven’t received a response within a reasonable timeframe beyond the 30-day target (consider 4-6 weeks as a reasonable extension), contact IRCC directly using their designated contact information for ATIA requests. Be polite but firm in expressing your concern about the delay.
• Consider Formal Follow-up: If your attempts to contact IRCC directly are unsuccessful, you may need to consider more formal follow-up procedures outlined in the ATIA legislation. This might involve escalating your complaint through established channels.

In Conclusion:

While IRCC aims for a 30-day response time for ATIA requests, delays are possible. Understanding the factors that can influence response times and having a plan for following up can significantly reduce stress and improve the chances of a timely response. Remember, patience is key, but proactive communication with IRCC is equally important when navigating the process.