Once you’ve submitted your Canada visa application in Dubai to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), it’s only natural to wonder: has it actually been received? At IMM Consult, we understand that this period of uncertainty can be stressful. Confirming that IRCC has your application is an essential first step in tracking progress, avoiding delays, and ensuring peace of mind.
From submission to final decision, each stage of the IRCC process matters. Typically, the journey includes application submission, receiving an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR), application processing, and final decision.
We’ve had many clients express concerns right after they hit “submit”: Was it received? Did I miss an email? Should I have heard back by now? This will guide you through how to verify that IRCC has received your application and what to expect next.
What Is the Difference Between a Submission Confirmation and an AOR?
There are two main stages of acknowledgement from IRCC:
- Submission Confirmation: This is the immediate confirmation you get after submitting your application online. It usually appears on-screen and is also emailed to you. It includes a confirmation number, which means IRCC has technically received your application.
- Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR): This is a formal email or letter from IRCC indicating that your application has passed the initial checks and is now in the processing queue. AORs are not instant and can take days or weeks, depending on the program.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Submission Confirmation: Instantly confirms delivery.
- AOR: Formal acknowledgement that processing has begun.
How to Check if IRCC Has Received Your Application?
IRCC Secure Account
You can track your application status through your IRCC online account.
Steps:
- Visit www.canada.ca and click on “Sign in to your account.”
- Log in using your GCKey or IRCC Secure Login.
- Go to the “View my submitted applications” section.
- Look for status updates such as “Submitted,” “Application received,” or “In progress.”
We recommend checking your account regularly and keeping an eye on both your inbox and spam folders for any IRCC messages.
Application Number
Your application number is a unique identifier (e.g., E123456789) given to you once IRCC starts processing your file.
- You usually receive this number in the AOR.
- It’s essential for tracking and for inquiries via webform or call centre.
If you haven’t received this number yet, it means your AOR hasn’t been issued.
Paper Application Linkage
If you submitted a paper application, you can link it to your online IRCC account to track it.
Steps:
- Log in to your IRCC account.
- Click “Link application to this account.”
- Select the type of application and provide details like name, passport number, and application type.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Ensure the information matches exactly.
- Try different variations (e.g., passport vs. UCI).
- Wait a few days if you just mailed the application.
IRCC Webform or Contact Centre
If you’re still unsure, the IRCC Webform is a helpful way to request confirmation.
Visit: IRCC Webform
Sample Message Template: “Dear IRCC, I submitted my [type of application] on [date] and would like to confirm whether it has been received. My full name is [Name], date of birth [DOB], and I am applying from [Country]. Thank you.”
Average Response Time: 14–30 days.
What to Expect Based on Program Type
Different programs have different processing speeds when it comes to AORs:
- Express Entry: AOR often arrives within hours to a few days [Source: Canada.ca – Express Entry Processing Times].
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): May take 2–6 weeks, depending on the province.
- Spousal Sponsorship: AOR is typically received within 4–8 weeks.
- Study/Work Permits: Varies by visa office; may take 2–6 weeks.
- Citizenship Applications: AOR can take several weeks to be issued.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting that you should know
Here are some common concerns and how to address them:
- No AOR after 6 weeks: Use the IRCC Webform.
- Incorrect email on file: Check your IRCC account and update contact info.
- No updates on IRCC portal: Some statuses change only when active processing begins.
- Application linking failed: Double-check your details and try again after a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if IRCC has received my application?
You will receive an on-screen submission confirmation and an email immediately after submitting online. A formal Acknowledgement of Receipt follows once IRCC has completed initial checks, which can take days to several weeks depending on your programme.
What is an AOR in Canadian immigration?
An AOR, or Acknowledgement of Receipt, is the formal communication from IRCC confirming that your application has passed the initial review and is now in the processing queue. It typically includes your application number, which you will need for all future tracking and correspondence.
What should I do if I have not received my AOR after six weeks?
Submit an inquiry through the official IRCC Webform with your personal details and application information. If you are working with an immigration consultant, they can follow up with IRCC on your behalf to get a clearer update on your file status.
Not sure if IRCC has received your application? Let us help. Contact IMM Consult today or book your consultation to get expert guidance and peace of mind.
