Canada Extends Proof of Citizenship Processing Time to 19 Months: What Applicants Need to Know
Canada has officially increased the processing time for Proof of Citizenship applications to 19 months, according to the latest update from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The new timeline applies to both new and existing applications and reflects a growing backlog of citizenship certificate requests.
Why Has the Processing Time Increased?
The delay is largely linked to the sharp rise in applications following changes to Canada’s citizenship-by-descent law, which took effect in December 2025. The amendments expanded eligibility for individuals born outside Canada with Canadian ancestry, leading to a surge in applications.
IRCC data shows the queue has grown to approximately 99,500 applications, with processing times rising from 15 months in June to 19 months in July 2026.
What Has Not Changed?
Although applicants will wait longer, the following remain unchanged:
- Eligibility requirements
- Application process (online or by mail)
- Required supporting documents
- Government application fees
Applicants are encouraged to monitor their application status through the official IRCC portal.
“Processing times are estimates and may vary depending on application volume, completeness, and individual circumstances.” — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Important Travel Advisory
IRCC also noted that applications linked to individuals whose last country of residence was the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, or Uganda may experience additional delays due to temporary immigration measures currently in place.
The extension to 19 months highlights the increasing demand for Canadian proof of citizenship certificates following expanded citizenship eligibility. Anyone planning to apply should submit a complete application, keep copies of all supporting documents, and regularly check their application status. While the wait has become significantly longer, Canada’s citizenship application process and eligibility rules remain unchanged.
- Canada IRCC Processing Times: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html
- CIC News – Citizenship Processing Update: https://www.cicnews.com/2026/07/processing-time-proof-of-citizenship-19-months-queue-nears-100000-0777725.html
