Canada launches Express Entry and PNP tracker for candidates!

Surya Rathee
[Published 22 Feb, 2023 | 05:33 AM]
About Author - 2 min read
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Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have expanded its online application status tracker to four new categories. Candidates that have applied for a Canadian Visa under Express Entry or PNP will now be able to monitor their application status – and stay informed on any necessary updates to their profile while waiting for a decision.

Check Eligibility for Canada PR

The new status tracker can now be accessed by candidates that have applied under the:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program are two of Canada’s most sought-after economic immigration pathways for immigrants. According to the Canada Immigration Level Plan for 2023-2025 – Canada will seek to welcome 190,000 new immigrants through these two pathways in 2023. These numbers are expected to rise to over 230,000 by 2025. 

As of January 31, there are currently 47,868 Express Entry and 66,214 PNP candidates waiting in the pool for a decision. The expansion of the status tracker will increase transparency by providing candidates with direct access to the information relayed by IRCC.

Exactly one year ago, IRCC launched status trackers for Family Class Sponsorship candidates - to check their application status more easily. This new initiative marks another effort by IRCC to reduce processing times and improve access to information for Express Entry and PNP candidates as well. IRCC states that the application status tracker will be available for more pathways in the coming months.

IRCC’s strategy to digitize

In September 2022, IRCC announced its transition to 100% digital applications for permanent residency programs. Following the announcement, IRCC made it possible to apply online to numerous programs between September and October 2022 including:

• Provincial Nominee Program (non-Express Entry).
• Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers.
• Sponsoring a Spouse or Partner.
• Sponsoring a Dependent Child.
• Sponsoring an Eligible Relative.
• Sponsoring an Orphaned Sibling, Niece, Nephew, or Grandchild.
• Adopting a child through the immigration process.
• Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.

This is an addition to other economic immigration programs such as the TRV holder that apply for Canada PR, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, and several Quebec Immigration Programs.

Moreover, IRCC has already made the process to apply for Canadian Citizenship digital. As of now, permanent residents over 18 can complete their citizenship application online.