Why is Express Entry Taking so Long?
Many Express Entry applicants have reached out to us with concerns that their application is taking a long time to process. Under normal circumstances, Express Entry applications are processed in six to eight months. Since the start of the pandemic, the processing time of all applications has been delayed.
IRCC recently updated their processing time calculator with new estimates to reflect the delays. IRCC also created a NEW immigration processing time calculator that indicates which applications they are currently reviewing. For example, in May 2021, they are processing Express Entry applications that were submitted in June 2020. This tool can be helpful to determine whether your application has substantially exceeded the rate at which they are reviewing applications.
You can also monitor the status of your application in your online account. To do this, log into your GC Key account and go to “View the applications you submitted”. Next, click “Application status and messages”.
It’s important to note that if your application is complex, it may take longer to process your application. There are various reasons your application may be considered complex. For example, if you listed outdated contact information, if you didn’t submit your documents on time, if you have since added dependent(s), or if you have since gotten married, your application may be considered complex. Changes such as these ones can increase the amount of time it takes an officer to review your application.
We have seen Express Entry applications take as long as 18 months or more to be processed. If you have tried checking your application using the processing time calculators and your GC Key account and you are still concerned about the status of your application, you can request GCMS notes.
How to Order GCMS Notes from Canada?
Global Case Management System (GCMS) notes contain information from the officers reviewing your application. They may indicate the reason your application is taking longer than expected to be processed; you can then use this information to take action. For example, if there is a note on your file indicating that you forgot to submit a document or provide certain information, you can complete these tasks to help support your application and increase your chances of success.
In general, it can take 30 to 40 days to receive GCMS notes. It can be difficult to interpret the meaning behind the notes left by the officer. In some cases, it can be helpful to have a professional examine the notes to identify potential issues and corresponding solutions. If you require assistance ordering and reviewing GCMS notes, you can book a GCMS notes appointment with our firm to review your case.
Our Services
Calver and Associates is a leading provider of Canadian Immigration services in Durham Region. We serve clients in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, and beyond. Our Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant has over 10 years of experience in Canadian Immigration law and over four years of experience serving those in the Oshawa area.
We can provide assistance with applications for both temporary and permanent residency in Canada. We handle applications for study permits, permanent residency, family class sponsorship, visitor visas, work permits, and Canadian citizenship. We also handle criminal inadmissibility cases by developing remedies for refusal.
