Immigration Going Digital
One of the most effective solutions Canada put in place is the digitalization of its systems. The safety measures instituted since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic reduced in-person services considerably. In response, IRCC provided online alternatives for several paper-based immigration programs. The new plan intends to expand on digitalization.
Firstly, the IRCC is working on having its online application portal fully functional by spring or summer 2022. The platform succeeded in increasing the efficiency of spousal sponsorship application processing times, which are back to the service standard of 12 months. IRCC also plans to increase the functionalities of the application portal to accept all permanent residence requests by summer. It means PR applicants won’t have to deal with paper documents. Between June and December 2021, the portal has served 225,000 permanent residents.
The introduction of a new PR case tracker tool will also contribute to better services for applicants. They will be able to monitor applications, eliminating the need to contact the IRCC for updates. Family sponsorships applicants will be the first to use the tracker in February 2022.
IRCC is also expanding its use of advanced data analytics to decrease the processing times for visitor visas in 2022. Officers will sort out visa applications sent from outside Canada more efficiently than ever. For years, IRCC has been leveraging data analytics in Temporary Resident Visa (VRT) applications. Although the capacity was limited, data analytics increased processing times by 87%.
Another issue the IRCC looks to handle is the inaccuracy of processing times listed on its website. According to IRCC, the check processing times tool offered to help applicants track their requests doesn’t show the correct duration. The Honorable Fraser explained that the tool will receive an update to guarantee clients get accurate estimates for application processing times.
Lastly, IRCC established virtual citizenship ceremonies and intends to expand their use. Since April 1, 2020, over 170,000 new Canadians have been sworn in, with the past several months seeing about 350 virtual ceremonies every month. As Canada strives to boost the efficiency of its immigration process, it is considering introducing self-administered oaths. A new resident would sign an attestation, then wait to celebrate their citizenship. This move would mean those at the final step of the citizenship process don’t have to wait longer than necessary.
The government of Canada recognizes that some individuals have waited a long while due to the pandemic, and are eager to know what happens next. So, it is working hard to streamline the immigration system to ensure quality services.
