When immigration applications take longer than expected, one common reason is security screening. Several government agencies are involved in this process, and one of the organizations that provides oversight is the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (the “NSIRA”).
The NSIRA is an independent review body created by Parliament in 2019. Its role is to oversee the national security and intelligence activities of federal agencies such as the Canada Border Services Agency (“CBSA”), the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (“CSIS”), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (“RCMP”).
This includes reviewing how these agencies handle immigration and citizenship security screening.
All immigration and citizenship applications involve background checks. In many cases, this is straightforward and completed quickly. However, for some applicants, the process can involve:
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CBSA: verifying admissibility to Canada;
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CSIS: conducting security assessments where potential risks are identified;
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RCMP: checking law enforcement records.
If additional information is needed, applications may remain under review for an extended period.
Role of the NSIRA
The NSIRA does not process applications or make immigration decisions. Instead, its job is to review whether the activities of agencies like CBSA and CSIS are lawful, reasonable, and carried out properly.
In addition to broad oversight, the NSIRA also investigates complaints. This includes complaints related to security screening in immigration, refugee, or citizenship applications. For example, if someone believes they were treated unfairly or that their case was mishandled by CSIS or CBSA during security screening, they can bring a complaint to NSIRA.
In its public reports, the NSIRA has noted that:
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delays can occur when agencies take a long time to complete security checks;
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information shared with other countries must follow strict rules to protect applicants;
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applicants are not always given clear explanations when security concerns affect their case.
These findings help ensure that immigration screening practices remain subject to accountability and review.
On September 29, 2025, the NSIRA sent the following letter to those with complaints:
