PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling recently provided an update on the status of the immigration services backlog, reporting significant progress in processing applications. During a press briefing, the Minister indicated that her department is now largely operating within the legally mandated four-month decision period for complete applications.
This update follows previous statements from the Minister, who acknowledged the backlog was a serious issue, even suggesting it might be "man-made," and vowed to eliminate it entirely by January 2026.
According to Minister Tackling, progress is evident in the applications currently awaiting her final approval. She noted that she was recently signing off on permits submitted in early January, suggesting a much faster turnaround time than in previous months.
The Minister credited the dedicated staff at the admissions department for the improvements. "I know that the ladies are working very, very hard at admissions," she stated, highlighting their commitment. "They are sometimes there at six o'clock in the morning, already working into the nights, the weekends, so really doing their best to make up that backlog."
While acknowledging that some older files might still be in the system, Minister Tackling explained that delays are often due to incomplete applications. She clarified that if an application is missing required information, such as a work permit, the four-month processing clock does not start until the file is complete.
Based on the current workflow, the Minister expressed confidence that the major delays are a thing of the past. "I don't get the impression right now that there's an enormous backlog and that we're very much now sticking within that four-month period," she concluded.
When asked about a separate personnel matter concerning the head of immigration, Minister Tackling declined to comment, stating, "I won't comment in the press on any ongoing personnel matters within the ministry." The focus remains on streamlining the application process and delivering timely decisions for residents and businesses.
