How can I check if my application has been received?

If we begin to process your application, we’ll send you an acknowledgement of receipt letter or email with an application number.

We don’t send an acknowledgement of receipt until we have opened your application and checked that it’s complete. There may be a delay between the date we receive your application and the date we open it.

Your application will be returned to you if

it’s incomplete
fees are missing or
it’s received after a program is paused, closed or a cap is reached

Tips to track your application

If you mail your application

Use a courier service that requires a signature when delivered. This gives you a delivery confirmation and allows you to track your package.

For some paper applications, you can get detailed application status and your messages online. You can do this by linking an application to an online account.

If you apply at a visa application centre (VAC)

VACs offer tracking services that tell you when your application has been received at our offices.

If you apply online

You’ll see a confirmation page after you submit your application. You’ll also receive an email asking you to check your account. A confirmation message with a confirmation number will be in your account. Keep your confirmation number for your records. Please note that it may take a few hours for you to receive an email from IRCC after you’ve submitted your application.

For more information, see