Share on LinkedInShare on LinkedIn

ARTICLE · 29 SEPTEMBER 2025

Waiting Too Long For Your Canadian PR? 3 Smart Steps To Take Now

Processing delays for Canadian permanent residence (PR) applications have become a frustrating reality. The Start-up Visa Program (SUV)...

CanadaImmigration

Processing delays for Canadian permanent residence (PR) applications have become a frustrating reality. The Start-up Visa Program (SUV) in particular has seen timelines increase dramatically from 20 months in 2020 to 53 months today.

If your application has been delayed, there may be steps you can take to understand the cause — and potentially push for a decision.

1. Request an ATIP (GCMS Notes)

The first step is to submit an ATIP (Access to Information and Privacy request). This allows you to see your GCMS (Global Case Management System) notes — the internal records IRCC (Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada) officers keep on your file. These notes reveal whether there are "red flags," such as missing documents, expired medicals, or security/background concerns.

We operate a free-to-view policy, asking only that you register in order to read all of our content. Please login or register to view the rest of this article.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

See more popular content from