Canadian immigration’s digital application system is the method through which IRCC seeks to improve its management process for immigration. The department met with the immigration representatives and the Canadian Bar Association’s Immigration Law Section on October 12, 2022. Additionally, IRCC displayed presentation slides about Digital Modernization in the Canadian immigration management system.
IRCC even took serious initiatives to update the application system to a modern version.
The need for a digital application system for Canadian immigration
Canada acknowledged that there is an absolute need to improve the management of application systems to avoid unnecessary delays.
Sean Fraser stated during a press release in January 2022 about the delayed processing times as he was aware of numerous individuals who had to wait for a prolonged period. He further reiterated the need for faster processing times not exceeding the service standards. Moreover, he believes hassle-free processes and accessible communication with IRCC must be a priority per the latest initiatives. He also spoke in detail about the benefits of Canadian immigration, as it is essential for a robust economy and for enhancing the communities. With several people choosing Canada due to its worldwide reputation, the government must take concrete measures to solidify the entire system. Moreover, an improved client experience will satisfy people the most.
Modernizing Canadian immigration- IRCC’s measures
Canadian immigration’s digital application system is one way Canada looks forward to improving client experience.
For better communication and faster processing times, IRCC is planning to undertake the following measures:
Financial investments for a digital application process
- According to 2021’s Economic and Fiscal Update, Canada planned to invest $85 million in new funds to decrease application inventories.
- Per the budget of 2021, Canada made a financial investment of $428.9 million in 5 years. Out of this amount, over $398.5 million is remaining to execute a fully-digitalized system. This enterprise-digital system will further replace the Global Case Management System.
Advanced-Data Analytics- its expansion
Surprisingly, Data Analytics for visitor visas depicts an 85 percent faster assessment of the daily files.
An increasing number of applicants to access a portal of digital applications
- Spousal Sponsorship applications have resumed their 12-month service standard to invite more new applications.
- Permanent residence programs witnessed a shift toward a completely digital application system in September 2022. However, those who are unable to adjust can access different format options available.
- Introducing an application tracker for permanent residence applications is yet another measure.
Permanent Residency Card receipts through the digital system
Also, 225,000 permanent residents already used the online portal between June and December 2021.
Citizenship applicants witness developments in the digital application system
Citizenship applicants underwent the following developments:
- Virtual Citizenship Ceremonies
- Digital application tracker
- Online testing
- Grant permission to interested candidates to execute the oath by signing an attestation.
Making the latest changes to current procedures
IRCC looks forward to updating the current processes through the following efforts:
- IRCC must update the tool for online processing times and also publish the latest estimated processing times for applications.
- The department must provide an exemption to specific eligible applicants from providing medical examination proofs.
- Hold an increasing number of video and telephonic interviews for specific programs. Additionally, the overseas offices and visa application centers must conduct more virtual interviews.
Three-phase timeline- Canadian immigration’s digital application
To execute a full-fledged digitalized application for Canadian immigration, IRCC planned a three-phase timeline:
- The first phase– The main emphasis should be laid on stabilizing the GCMS. (December 20 to November 2021)
- The second phase must focus on Standardization. Building strong cloud elements to support the potential to be executed in the third phase.
- The third phase– Ensure a completely digital application system and start the activities determining that it is 100 percent digitally ready. (April 2023 to December 2026)
Estimated results- digital application system in Canadian immigration
Applicants are more likely to experience positive results and advantages of the improvements in the Canadian immigration system; they’re as follows:
- An enhanced system of application processing.
- Interview procedures and processing will become more flexible.
- Shorter periods of processing applications.
- More staff members in the application processing.
- Easy management of processing more applications.
- Immediate confirmations on successful application submission.
- Quicker access to online status updates and application details.
- Candidates will be able to save money and time concerning medical examination procedures.
- Officers will have additional support during the processing of visitor visa applications from outside Canada.
- Reduced effort due to the closure of paper applications.
- Applicants will get more time to plan their immigration based on the estimated times of immigration.
