Nothing checked off yet

First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Check your eligibility

Express EntryDecisionStep 12 of 12

BlockedAbout 6 months · RequiredYou are here

12. Decision

IRCC aims to decide most Express Entry applications within about six months of a complete submission.

Waiting on: Give biometrics, Medical exam with a panel physician, Police certificates

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 12 of 12 · RequiredClose

Decision

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepCheck application processing timescanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

IRCC aims to decide most Express Entry applications within about six months of a complete submission. If approved you receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence and, if you're outside Canada, a permanent resident visa.

Why it's required: This is the last step. The official processing time tool is the only reliable estimate.

TargetAbout 6 monthsA target; files can take longer.

If refusedReasons are givenSpeak to a lawyer or an RCIC before reapplying.

Before this step

BlockedGive biometrics BlockedMedical exam with a panel physician BlockedPolice certificates

This is the last step of the pathway.