1. Who's eligible:
You’ve already been granted protected person status—either as a
refugee recognized by the IRB or via a
positive PRRA decision.
PR Application Steps (Inside Canada):
- Application Submitted: You’ve already done this.
- AOR (Acknowledgement of Receipt) – Usually within 2–3 months of submission.
- Background/Security/Medical Checks – May be requested within 3–6 months.
- Decision Made: Final PR approval and PR card issued.
Processing Time:
As of 2025,
average is 15–20 months for protected persons applying for PR inside Canada.
Check current times: IRCC official processing times
2. Family Members Abroad – Permanent Residence Under Family Reunification (One-Year Window Program)
If you included your
spouse/children abroad in your protected person claim or notified IRCC within
1 year of your refugee protection, they may qualify under the
One-Year Window of Opportunity (OYW) program.
Family PR Process (Outside Canada):
- Submit IMM 0008 application for each family member.
- Biometrics Request – Usually 1–3 months after AOR.
- Medical Exams – IRCC will notify when to complete.
- Security/Background Checks – Can take several months.
- Final Decision + Visa Issuance (if approved).
Timeline for Family Members Abroad:
- 12–24 months, depending on:
- The country they are in (some have longer security processes).
- Case complexity.
- Whether documents (IDs, birth certs, etc.) are available.
Can You Expedite or Track Progress?
- Webform: Use the IRCC Webform to check your case or provide updates.
- GCKey/IRCC Portal: Track status if you submitted online.
- Call IRCC (if in Canada): 1-888-242-2100