Key takeaways
- IRCC’s in-Canada processing-time data is dated October 29, 2026
- Work permit extension: 123 days. Study permit extension: 54 days
- Visitor record (visitor extension): 321 days. Visitor visa from inside Canada: 12 days
- IRCC says processing times are not a maximum or a guarantee
- Apply before your status expires, so you keep maintained status while you wait
In-Canada processing times as of October 29, 2026
IRCC publishes these estimates in a processing-time data file. The file’s “last updated” date is October 29, 2026.
| Application (made from inside Canada) | Estimated processing time |
|---|---|
| Work permit extension | 123 days |
| Study permit extension | 54 days |
| Visitor record (visitor extension) | 321 days |
| Visitor visa from inside Canada | 12 days |
Other estimates in the same file
| Service | Estimated processing time |
|---|---|
| New permanent resident (PR) card | 28 days |
| PR card renewal | 43 days |
| Verification of status | 16 weeks |
| Replacement documents | 11 weeks |
| Amend an immigration document | 13 weeks |
| Amend a temporary resident document | 9 weeks |
| International Experience Canada (IEC) | 6 weeks |
How to read these numbers
IRCC’s Check processing times tool says the times it shows are not a maximum or a guarantee. Your own wait can be shorter or longer.
These figures change often. We do not say whether they rose or fell, because we do not have a dated IRCC baseline to compare with. Check the tool for the application type you plan to submit.
What this means for you
- You hold a work permit or study permit that will expire: compare the estimate with your expiry date. Apply before your status expires, so you keep maintained status while you wait.
- You are a visitor who needs more time: the visitor record estimate is 321 days. Read IRCC’s rules for your situation before you apply.
- You need a PR card: the file shows 28 days for a new card and 43 days for a renewal.
What to do next
- Check the date your current permit expires.
- Open IRCC’s Check processing times tool and choose your application type.
- See our processing times guide, our processing times data page and our work permits and study pages.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a work permit extension take in Canada?
IRCC’s data dated October 29, 2026 shows 123 days.
How long does a study permit extension take?
The same file shows 54 days.
How long does a visitor record take?
The same file shows 321 days. A visitor record is the document you request when you extend your stay as a visitor.
Are processing times a guarantee?
No. IRCC says the times are not a maximum or a guarantee.
Should I wait for my permit to expire before I apply?
No. Apply before your status expires, so you keep maintained status while you wait.
Sources
- IRCC: in-Canada processing-time data (JSON) (last updated October 29, 2026)
- IRCC: Check processing times
Facts as provided in our research brief dated October 30, 2026.
This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. For your situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.
