After a study permit applicant submits biometrics, the file moves through three distinct processing stages before a decision is issued, according to information published by CIC News. The processing clock begins when IRCC receives biometrics, not when the application is first submitted, meaning delays in booking a Visa Application Center appointment do not count against published processing times.

This matters because applicants often misunderstand why their applications appear stalled. IRCC gives applicants 30 days from the date on the Biometric Instruction Letter to provide biometrics, and the time taken within that window is excluded from the six-to-twelve-week processing estimate shown on the IRCC website. The practical effect: an application submitted in early April but with biometrics given in late April starts its processing timeline in late April, not early April.

Once biometrics are received, the file enters a completeness check during the first week. IRCC confirms that all required documents are present and fees are paid. If the file is incomplete, IRCC either returns it unprocessed or requests missing documents. Files that pass move to substantive review, which includes eligibility and security checks. At this point, applicants receive an Acknowledgement of Receipt email with an application number, and the online portal updates the "Review of eligibility" line to "In Progress."

The eligibility review stage examines whether the applicant meets legal requirements: acceptance at a designated learning institution, sufficient funds, ties to the home country, and intent to leave Canada when status expires. "The official 'Study permit: After you apply' page on Canada.ca explains the post-application process," the report notes. When this stage concludes, the "Review of eligibility" line changes from "In Progress" to "Completed."