Atlantic Immigration Program Processing Times Drop to 26 Months in June 2026 Update

Current Processing Times by Stream

Which Streams Got Faster and Which Got Slower

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is the only major economic immigration stream to see a significant reduction in processing times this month. As of June 8, 2026, AIP applicants can expect a decision in 26 months, down from 38 months in May 2026. This 12-month improvement is the largest single-month drop since processing times spiked in October 2025, when wait times nearly tripled from 13 to 37 months.

The reduction comes as a relief to many AIP applicants who were at risk of losing their work authorization before receiving a permanent residence decision. Unlike other permanent residence programs, AIP applicants are not eligible for bridging open work permits. Instead, they rely on a special two-year work permit exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process, which is non-renewable. With processing times previously exceeding three years, many applicants faced the prospect of losing their ability to work in Canada before their applications were finalized.

In response to this crisis, Atlantic provinces issued letters of support to AIP endorsees whose work permits were set to expire, allowing them to apply for C18 closed work permits. This temporary measure enabled applicants to continue working while awaiting a decision. The recent drop in processing times reduces—but does not eliminate—the risk of work permit expirations for current and future applicants.

How This Compares to Historical Processing Times

The AIP has struggled with lengthy processing times since late 2025. After maintaining a relatively stable 13-month processing time in September 2025, wait times surged to 37 months in October 2025—a 184.6% increase in just one month. Since then, processing times have remained well above IRCC’s 11-month service standard. Here’s a breakdown of AIP processing times over the past year:

The June 2026 update marks the first time since October 2025 that processing times have dropped below 30 months. While this is a positive development, the current 26-month wait time is still more than double IRCC’s 11-month service standard for the AIP. Applicants should continue to monitor processing times closely, as fluctuations are possible.

Who Is Most Affected by This Change?

The reduction in AIP processing times is particularly impactful for two groups of applicants:

1. Current AIP applicants with expiring work permits: Many AIP applicants who submitted their permanent residence applications in 2023 or early 2024 were facing work permit expirations before their applications could be processed. The 12-month reduction in processing times means some of these applicants may now receive a decision before their work permits expire, reducing their reliance on provincial letters of support for C18 work permits.
2. New AIP applicants: Applicants submitting their applications in mid-2026 can now expect a decision in 26 months, rather than the 38 months previously projected. This makes the AIP a more viable option for skilled workers in Atlantic Canada who may have been deterred by the lengthy processing times.

However, it’s important to note that the AIP remains an employer-driven program. To qualify, applicants must secure a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces—New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island—and receive provincial endorsement. The job offer must meet specific criteria, including being full-time, non-seasonal, and at the appropriate skill level.

How to Check Your Own Application Status

AIP applicants can monitor the status of their permanent residence applications through IRCC’s online portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Log in to your IRCC account: Visit IRCC’s account login page and sign in using your credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one using the application number provided in your acknowledgment of receipt letter.
2. Navigate to your application: Once logged in, select "View my submitted applications or profiles" to access your AIP application.
3. Check your application status: Your application status will be displayed on the dashboard. Common statuses include:
   • Received: IRCC has received your application and is reviewing it for completeness.
   • In progress: Your application is being processed, and additional documents or information may be requested.
   • Decision made: A decision has been reached on your application. You will receive a notification by email or mail.
4. Review processing times: While your application is in progress, you can check the latest processing times on the official AIP processing times page. Note that these times are estimates and may not reflect your individual case.
5. Update your contact information: Ensure your email address and mailing address are up to date in your IRCC account to receive notifications about your application status.

What Affects Processing Times

Several factors can influence the processing time of an AIP application. Understanding these can help applicants avoid delays and set realistic expectations:

1. Application completeness: Incomplete applications are one of the most common causes of delays. Ensure all required forms, documents, and fees are submitted correctly. Missing or incorrect information can result in requests for additional documents, prolonging processing times.
2. Biometrics and medical exams: AIP applicants must provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) and undergo a medical exam. Delays in scheduling or submitting these can slow down processing. Submit biometrics as soon as you receive the request, and ensure your medical exam is conducted by a panel physician approved by IRCC.
3. Background checks: IRCC conducts security and criminality checks for all applicants. Delays in these checks can extend processing times, particularly if additional information is required from foreign governments or agencies.
4. Volume of applications: The number of applications received by IRCC can impact processing times. As of June 8, 2026, there were 12,900 AIP applications awaiting processing in IRCC’s inventory. High application volumes can lead to longer wait times, especially if IRCC’s resources are stretched thin.
5. Peak seasons: Processing times may be longer during peak application periods, such as the start of the year or after major policy changes. Submit your application during off-peak periods if possible to avoid additional delays.
6. Office workload: The specific IRCC office processing your application can also affect wait times. Some offices may have higher workloads or staffing shortages, leading to longer processing times. Unfortunately, applicants have no control over which office processes their application.

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