Chinook: Immigration Canada's New Tool For Immigration Applications

In early 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) admitted to using a new tool called Chinook to assist in the processing of temporary resident applications. While this innovative tool allows for a greater volume of cases to be processed, it also raises several concerns about its transparency and fairness.

Developed in 2018, Chinook is a Microsoft Excel-based tool that reduces the amount of time spent downloading and reviewing information. Built in a modular fashion, Chinook provides administrative support for different stages of the application evaluation process, depending on the module used. The different modules can assist IRCC officers in steps such as file management, indicator management, and pre- and post-decision management. It has been designed to facilitate and simplify client information by the way it displays the information stored in the Global Case Management System (GCMS), the IRCC's processing and recording system.