For applicants under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), processing time after biometrics depends on several factors, including security checks, medical assessment, and verification of employer and provincial endorsement. Biometrics allow IRCC to confirm identity and link all background and eligibility reviews to the application, which is essential before a decision can be made.

Once biometrics are completed, IRCC continues with the detailed assessment of security, medical, and program eligibility requirements. While there is no separate official timeline for the post-biometrics period, it forms a significant portion of the overall AIP processing time, which begins from the date a complete application is received.

What Biometrics Represents in the AIP Process

Biometrics involve the collection of fingerprints and a photograph to confirm an applicant’s identity.

Once biometrics are completed and marked as received, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) begins the core assessment of the application.

It is important to understand that biometrics do not represent approval or near completion of the application. Instead, they enable IRCC to proceed with essential checks, including security screening, background verification, medical admissibility, and eligibility assessment under the Atlantic Immigration Program.

Official AIP Processing Time

Under current IRCC standards, the processing time after biometrics for the Atlantic Immigration Program has a service standard of approximately 11 months, although actual processing times may extend to 12–13 months or longer, depending on application volume and individual case complexity.

This timeline includes:

  • biometrics collection

  • background and security screening

  • medical review

  • eligibility verification

  • final decision and confirmation of permanent residence

Does IRCC Count Processing Time From Biometrics?

No, IRCC does not calculate processing time from the date biometrics are submitted. Official processing times are calculated from the moment IRCC receives a complete permanent residence application, including all required documents and fees.

Biometrics are part of the overall processing timeline and do not lead to a separate or faster decision timeline. 

What Happens After Biometrics Are Submitted

Once biometrics are completed, IRCC begins a detailed and often lengthy review process that includes:

Security and Background Checks

IRCC conducts criminality and security screening, which may involve multiple agencies and international record verification. These checks often take several months and are not visible to applicants.

Medical Admissibility Review

If medical exams have already been submitted, they are reviewed during this phase. In some cases, further medical clarification or reassessment may be required.

Eligibility Assessment

IRCC confirms that the applicant meets all AIP requirements, including:

  • a valid job offer from a designated Atlantic employer

  • provincial endorsement

  • settlement plan compliance

  • work experience, education, and language requirements

Because AIP is employer-driven, verification of employer designation and compliance can also contribute to longer processing times.

Why There Are Few Updates After Biometrics

Applicants often report long periods with no visible updates in their IRCC account after biometrics. This is normal, as most post-biometrics checks occur internally and do not generate automatic status changes.

A lack of updates does not indicate a delay, refusal, or problem with the application. In most cases, it simply means background and security reviews are ongoing.

Is AIP Slower Than Other PR Programs?

Compared to Express Entry, AIP generally takes longer. This is due to:

  • additional employer and provincial verification

  • settlement plan requirements

  • regional nomination coordination

However, AIP compensates for longer timelines by offering lower eligibility thresholds and clearer pathways for applicants with valid job offers in Atlantic Canada.

Personalised Processing Time Estimates

IRCC now provides personalised processing time estimates through applicants’ online accounts.

These estimates adjust as the application progresses and offer a more realistic expectation than general service standards.

Applicants are advised to rely on these personalised timelines rather than informal estimates or third-party predictions.

What Applicants Should Do After Biometrics

After biometrics, applicants should:

  • Monitor their IRCC account regularly

  • Respond promptly to any document or information requests

  • Avoid unnecessary inquiries unless processing exceeds published standards

  • Submitting incomplete or delayed responses can extend processing time further.