What does IRCC stand for and what is its role in Express Entry?

IRCC stands for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. It is the federal government department responsible for all aspects of Canada's immigration system, including Express Entry. IRCC sets the rules for each immigration program, manages the Express Entry pool, conducts draws, reviews permanent residence applications, and ultimately decides whether to grant or refuse a permanent resident visa.

Immigration is a federal matter under Canada's Constitution — the federal government has primary jurisdiction over who enters and stays in Canada as a permanent resident or citizen. Provinces can influence immigration indirectly through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), but the final decision on permanent residence applications always rests with IRCC. For example, Ontario's OINP can nominate a candidate, but IRCC still processes and approves (or refuses) the actual permanent residence application.

When people say "immigration law" in the Canadian context, they are referring almost entirely to federal law — primarily the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and its associated regulations. As a firm licensed by the Law Society of Ontario, Treadstone Law can assist with immigration matters that have Ontario connections, but the underlying law is federal. Any immigration advice you receive should be given by a lawyer or regulated consultant who is authorized to practise immigration law in Canada.