Why is my application considered complex or non-routine and what does that mean for me?
We consider your application complex or non-routine if some parts of your application need extra review or processing on our part.
It may take us longer than the normal processing time to review a non-routine application.
Below are some examples of why your application might be complex or non-routine.
Citizenship applications
- You asked to change your personal information, like your
- name
- sex or gender identifier
- date of birth
- We need you to submit extra documents, like
- fingerprints
- residence documents
- You missed a test, interview or hearing.
- We invited you to another interview or hearing after you attended your interview.
- You failed a test.
- During your interview, you didn’t meet the language requirements.
Permanent residence applications
- Your contact information is outdated and we can’t contact you or a family member.
- We requested more documents, and they weren’t submitted on time, or at all.
- Your dependant(s) turned 18 since you applied.
- You added 1 or more dependants to your application since you applied.
- Your dependant(s) got married and/or had children of their own since you applied.
- You provided legal documents regarding child custody or that confirm a change to your marital status.
- You or your family member were asked to resubmit a medical exam because one expired.
- Exams for every person must all be valid at the same time.
- You or a family member were asked to appear for an interview.
- You or a family member might not be eligible.
- Background checks are still in progress for you or your family members.
Temporary residence (visitor visa, study permit, work permit) applications
- We’re verifying your information and documents.
- We need additional documents from you, such as child custody information.
- You sent us unclear copies of your documents.
- You have a medical condition for which you may need more tests or consultations.
- You lived in Canada before as a permanent resident.
- There’s a criminal, security or other admissibility issue.
- We need to consult with other offices in Canada or abroad.
Answers others found useful
- How long will it take to process my application?
- When does my processing time start?
- How can I check the status of my application?
- Why can’t I see my case status online?
- I sent my application a while ago, but there is no record of my application online. Why?
- How are processing times calculated?
- Why do some application processing times change and others do not?
- What does my family sponsorship application status mean?
- Why can’t I create a permanent residence tracker account for my sponsorship application?
- Why have processing times changed for some applications types?
- How do I check the status of my Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel application?
Glossary term
- Date modified: