Waiting on an immigration decision is hard. For many applicants it's made harder by not knowing what's happening with their file. Here's some good news: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has brought back its Application Status Tracker. Below, we explain what changed, who can use the tool, and how to get started.
What changed
IRCC's Application Status Tracker went live again on October 14, 2026. Industry reports say IRCC switched off the old tracker in May 2026 to deal with outdated information and possible security issues.
The tracker gives you a more detailed view than a simple "received" or "in progress" message. Once you sign in and link your application, you can see the status of key parts of your file:
- Eligibility: whether an officer has reviewed if you meet the program requirements
- Medical exam: whether your immigration medical results have been received and reviewed
- Background check: the status of security and criminality screening
- Biometrics: whether your fingerprints and photo have been received
IRCC says the information in your tracker account is updated daily.
Who it affects
IRCC lists the following application types as supported right now:
- Express Entry, including the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST) and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applications submitted through Express Entry
- Sponsorship of a spouse, partner or dependent child
- Study permits
- Work permits
- Visitor visas (temporary resident visas)
These people can use the tool: the principal applicant (including the person being sponsored), the sponsor, authorized representatives, and designated individuals who have written consent to access the application.
There's one important condition. You can only use the tracker after you've received your Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). The AOR confirms that IRCC has received your application and found it complete. If you haven't received one yet, you'll need to wait.
If your application type isn't on the list, such as citizenship or a PR card, IRCC offers other ways to check your status, including the Client Application Status tool and your IRCC online account.
What to do next
- Find your AOR. Keep your application number and Unique Client Identifier (UCI) close at hand. You'll need them to link your file.
- Sign in. Go to IRCC's tracker page and sign in with a GCKey or through a participating bank (Sign-In Partner). GCKey uses two-factor authentication, so save your recovery codes somewhere safe.
- Use a supported browser. IRCC recommends an up-to-date version of Chrome, Safari, Firefox or Microsoft Edge with JavaScript and cookies enabled. Don't bookmark pages inside the tracker. Always sign in from the main page.
- Check in regularly, but don't panic. A status that hasn't moved in a few days is normal. The tracker shows where your file is. It doesn't predict the outcome or the timeline.
- Respond quickly to requests. If IRCC asks for more documents or a medical exam, act right away. Delays on your side can slow down your whole file.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the tracker before I get my AOR? No. IRCC says you can only use the tool once you've received an acknowledgement of receipt.
I created a new GCKey and my application is missing. What happened? If you create a new GCKey or switch Sign-In Partners, you may need to re-enter your application details in the tracker to see your file again.
Does the tracker replace my IRCC online account? No. The tracker is a status tool. Official messages and document requests still come through your IRCC account or by email, so keep checking those too.
Official sources
Need help reading your application status?
Not sure what a status update means, or worried your file has stalled? R-Way Immigration Services Inc. can review your situation and help you plan your next step. Book a consultation at r-wayimmigration.ca or call 647-803-1004.
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