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Rafia Rizwan
February 25, 2026
How long does SOC 2 take in Canada? This guide breaks down realistic timelines for Type I and Type II, key milestones, and common delay risks.
Timeline, Milestones, and What Most Companies Underestimate
This is the first question founders ask:
“How long will SOC 2 take?”
And the honest answer is:
It depends.
But not in the vague way most consultants say it.
SOC 2 doesn’t take long because it’s complicated.
It takes long because:
• Controls need time to operate
• Evidence must be collected
• Gaps must be fixed
• Auditors must review real activity
• Your organization must mature
If you’re planning sales, funding, or enterprise expansion, you need realistic expectations.
| SOC 2 Type | What It Means | Timeline Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Type I | Snapshot in time (controls designed & implemented) | Faster |
| Type II | Controls tested over 3–12 months | Stronger credibility, longer timeline |
If you need a fast market signal, Type I is quicker.
If you need enterprise trust, Type II is more powerful.
| Phase | Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Gap Assessment | 2–4 weeks | Identify missing controls |
| Remediation | 1–3 months | Implement policies & controls |
| Operating Period (Type II) | 3–6+ months | Controls actively running |
| Audit Fieldwork | 2–6 weeks | Auditor testing |
| Report Issuance | 2–4 weeks | Final SOC 2 report delivered |
Realistic Duration:
• Type I: 3–6 months
• Type II: 6–12 months
1️⃣ No clear scope
2️⃣ Manual evidence collection
3️⃣ No internal owner
4️⃣ Over-engineering controls
5️⃣ Engaging auditor too early
SOC 2 delays are rarely technical.
They are organizational.
You accelerate by:
• Performing a proper readiness assessment
• Narrowing scope intelligently
• Assigning clear ownership
• Automating evidence collection
• Leveraging Microsoft 365 & Azure
• Working with a vCISO
Fast does not mean reckless.
It means structured.
If you’re evaluating SOC 2, get clarity on duration, Type I vs Type II, delay risks, and milestone planning.
Can SOC 2 be done in 2 months?
Rarely — unless controls already exist and you pursue Type I.
Can SOC 2 take over a year?
Yes — if maturity is low or leadership engagement is weak.
Is Type I faster?
Yes — but many enterprises require Type II.
SOC 2 typically takes:
• 3–6 months (Type I)
• 6–12 months (Type II)
The difference between smooth and painful?
Preparation.
Structure.
Leadership.
Automation.
With the right strategy, SOC 2 becomes predictable.
And predictable builds confidence.
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