The Canadian federal department that helps immigrants come to Canada, protects refugees, and supports newcomers in settling is called IRCC. This department is also responsible for promoting multiculturalism by issuing travel documents such as passports and granting citizenship.
IRCC was previously known as Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). When the new Canadian government took office in November 2015, they immediately adopted the new name. Although many people still use the acronym “CIC,” formal communications now clearly prefer “IRCC.”
The government added the term “Refugees” to the official name to highlight Canada’s increased focus on humanitarian efforts and refugee protection. However, this does not mean economic immigration or family reunification became less important. In fact, the government has committed more funding to IRCC to speed up processing and improve services.
It is important for people and organizations to understand that CIC and IRCC refer to the same department. It’s not a new office—only the name and some responsibilities have evolved. Some provinces and territories may continue using the old acronym CIC for a while.
The word “Immigration” in IRCC’s title reflects Canada’s long-standing commitment to welcoming immigrants. With population challenges and economic goals in mind, immigration will continue to play a major role in Canada’s future. Most Canadians can trace their roots back to other countries within just a few generations.
The “Refugees” component of IRCC has become increasingly significant. Global instability has pushed millions of people from their homes. As of June 2015, the UNHCR estimated there were around 60 million refugees worldwide. During Canada’s 2015 federal election, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal Party emphasized helping more refugees and providing long-term support.
Becoming a Canadian citizen is a meaningful milestone for many immigrants. Citizenship continues to be a key part of IRCC’s work, offering newcomers a secure and permanent connection to Canada.
Summary
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Evolution from CIC to IRCC
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Increased focus on refugees
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Continued support for economic and family immigration
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Clear path to Canadian citizenship
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Open and welcoming immigration policy
IRCC Office Locations and Contact Information (Canada & Abroad)
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Service for immigration and naturalization
Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
Government office (IRCC)
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Phone: +1 888-576-8502
Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada
Phone: +1 888-242-2100
Open by appointment only
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Phone: +1 888-242-2100
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Phone: +1 888-242-2100
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Phone: +1 888-242-2100
Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Phone: +1 226-791-6656
Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
Phone: +1 604-930-6310
Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada
Phone: +1 888-242-2100
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
Phone: +1 306-975-4117
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Phone: +1 800-926-9105
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada
Phone: +1 800-622-6232
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Immigration and Refugee services
Phone: +1 204-983-3553
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Immigration and Refugee Board
Phone: +1 866-787-7472
Canadian Offices in India
High Commission of Canada – New Delhi
Phone: 011 4178 2000
Consulate General of Canada – Chandigarh
Phone: 0172 505 0300
Rise N Sky Immigration – Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Phone: 08901 095888
Canada Immigration & Visa Services – Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab
