Guide 0128 – Pathway to permanent residence – In-Canada families of Canadian victims of recent air disasters

The deadline to apply was May 11, 2022

We are no longer accepting new applications.

If you submitted a complete application before or on May 11, 2022, we’ll continue to process it.

Table of contents

This is not a legal document. The explanations and definitions are not legal definitions. In case of a discrepancy between the language in this document and the relevant legislation or regulations, the legal text in the legislation and regulations prevails.

For legal information, consult the following documents:

Before you apply

Overview of the public policy

In the past two years, there have been two airline disasters with significant implications for Canadians.

As a result of each of these tragic events, all passengers and crew died, including many Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting the families of victims that were Canadian citizens, permanent residents or foreign nationals that were in the process of applying for permanent residence.

The temporary public policy to facilitate permanent residence for in-Canada families of Canadian victims of recent air disasters will facilitate the granting of permanent residence to some of the members of these families who are currently in Canada and will help minimize uncertainty for those who have already faced great loss and allow families to remain in Canada so that they can help rebuild their lives and support surviving family, as needed.

This public policy takes effect on May 12, 2021, and will end on May 11, 2022.

Who may use this application?

To qualify for this public policy, you must meet specific eligibility criteria before applying.

Pending refugee claimant

If you have a refugee claim or appeal before the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) or the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) of the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) when you apply for permanent residence under this public policy, following a preliminary review, IRCC will inform the IRB that you have applied for Permanent Residence and request that your claim or appeal be placed on hold until a final decision on your application for permanent residence under this public policy is rendered.

IRCC will provide the IRB with the outcome of the application for those who had their claims or appeals put on hold under this public policy.

Stay of removal

Once IRCC assesses that you meet the requirements above, except for a final determination of admissibility, and concludes that you are eligible, the delegated officer will approve the application in principle under this public policy. If you receive an approval in principle, your removal order, if one exists, will be stayed pursuant to section 233 of the Regulations. The stay of removal will apply until a final decision is made on the permanent residence application. A final assessment of admissibility will be conducted prior to granting of permanent residence.

Renewal of a study or work permit, or extension of visitor status

If you need to apply to renew your visitor status or apply for a study or a work permit, do not include that application with your application for permanent residence under this public policy. You must send a separate application.

Do family members need to apply separately?

You may include your family member(s) as defined below, residing in Canada, in your application for permanent residence for concurrent processing. Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children must be admissible (unless exempted as per above), meet all other requirements of the Act.

Family members residing outside Canada cannot be included for concurrent processing. However, in your application, you must list all your family members residing in Canada or outside, as all will need to be examined for admissibility purposes. That said, your family members residing outside Canada may be sponsored after you have become a Permanent Resident of Canada, if the requirements of the Regulations are met.

Note: For the definition of a family member, see the definitions below (in line with the definition of family member of subsection 1(3) of the Regulations).

Family member definitions

Your family members include your spouse or common-law partner, your dependent children and any children that are their dependent children.

Spouse

Refers to either of the two persons (any gender) in a marriage legally recognized in the country in which it took place, as well as in Canada.

Important information

Proxy, telephone, fax, internet and similar forms of marriage where one or both parties were not physically present are not considered as valid spousal relationships under the Regulations nor are polygamous marriages. For more information, consult our policy on the legality of a marriage.

Common-law partner

Refers to a person who is living in a conjugal relationship with another person (any gender), and has done so continuously for a period of at least one year. A conjugal relationship exists when there is a significant degree of commitment between two people.

This can be shown with evidence that the couple share the same home, support each other financially and emotionally, have children together, or present themselves in public as a couple.

Common-law partners who have been in a conjugal relationship for at least one year, but are unable to live together or appear in public together because of legal restrictions in their home country or who have been separated for reasons beyond their control (for example, civil war or armed conflict) may still qualify and should be included on the application.

Dependent children

We assess your child’s eligibility as a dependant based on how old they were at a specific point in time, called the "lock-in date". This is usually the date we received your application. To see if your child qualifies as a dependant, we consider the age of your child on the lock-in date, even though your child’s age may change during processing.

Your child or the child of your spouse or common-law partner can be considered a dependent child if that child meets the requirements below on the lock-in date:

  • They’re under 22 years old, and
  • They don’t have a spouse or common-law partner

Children 22 years old or older qualify as dependants if they meet both of these requirements:

  • They have depended on their parents for financial support since before the age of 22, and
  • They are unable to financially support themselves because of a mental or physical condition

With the exception of age, dependants must continue to meet these requirements until we finish processing your application.

Not sure if your child is a dependant? Check if your child qualifies by answering a few questions.

If your child’s age was locked in on or before October 23, 2017, a previous definition of dependent children may apply.

Dependent child of a dependent child

Refers to children of dependent children of the applicant and those of the spouse or common-law partner, if applicable.

Biometric (fingerprints and photo) requirements

You and your family members may need to appear in person to have fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) taken at a biometric collection service point.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada are exempt from giving biometrics.

As of December 3, 2019, you need to give biometrics when you apply from within Canada. You can go to a designated Service Canada location.

Find out if you need to give biometrics.

If you have to give biometrics, you can give them after you:

  • pay for and submit your application and biometric fees; and
  • get a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) which will direct you to a list of biometric collection service points you may choose from.

You must bring the BIL with you to the biometric collection service point to give your biometrics.

We encourage you to give your biometrics as soon as possible after getting the BIL. We’ll start processing your application after we get your biometrics.

Where to give your biometrics

You need to book an appointment to give your biometrics at one of these official biometric collection service points.

Step 1. Gather Documents

What documents are required?

Use the Document Checklist [IMM 0129] (PDF, 2.3 MB) to assist you in gathering the necessary documentation.

Note: If any of the required documents are missing, or photocopies are not clear, your application may be returned to you.

Additional documents may be required during the processing of your application.

Reminder

It is your responsibility to ensure that the information in your application is correct and up-to-date. If your circumstances change, you must inform IRCC. Decisions made on your application will be based on the information we have at the time your application is reviewed.

When you mail your updated information, the envelope should be clearly labelled with the words “Victims of air disasters public policy - VAD”.

Translation of documents

You must include the following along with any document that is not in English or French:

Translations may be done by:

  • a person who is fluent in both languages (English or French, and the unofficial language); or
  • a Canadian certified translator (a member in good standing of a provincial or territorial organization of translators and interpreters in Canada).

If the translation isn’t done by a Canadian certified translator, the person who completed the translation must provide an affidavit swearing to their language proficiency and the accuracy of the translation.

The affidavit must be sworn in the presence of:

In Canada:

Authority to certify varies by province and territory. Consult your local provincial or territorial authorities.

Outside of Canada:

  • a notary public

Authority to administer oaths varies by country. Consult your local authorities.

small exclamation warning signImportant information: Translations must not be done by the applicants themselves nor by members of the applicant’s family. This includes a parent, guardian, sibling, spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, grandparent, child, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew and first cousin.

Note: An affidavit is a document on which the translator has sworn, in the presence of a person authorized to administer oaths in the country where the translator is living, that the contents of their translation are a true translation and representation of the contents of the original document. Translators who are certified in Canada don’t need to supply an affidavit.


Certified true copies

To have a photocopy of a document certified, an authorized person must compare the original document to the photocopy and must print all of the following on the photocopy:

  • “I certify that this is a true copy of the original document”;
  • the name of the original document;
  • the date of the certification;
  • the name of the authorized person;
  • their official position or title; and
  • their signature.

Who can certify copies?

Only authorized people can certify copies.

Important information: Certifying of copies must not be done by the applicants themselves nor by an applicant’s parent, guardian, sibling, spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, grandparent, child, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew or first cousin.

People authorized to certify copies include the following:

In Canada:

Authority to certify varies by province and territory. Check with your local provincial or territorial authorities to learn who has the authority to certify.

Outside Canada:

  • a notary public

Authority to certify international documents varies by country. Check with your local authorities to learn who has the authority to certify in your country.


Step 2. Complete the Application

Filling out the application

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to complete the application forms.

The following are the forms that must be filled out and submitted:

Be complete and accurate

Complete all sections. If a section does not apply to you, write “Not Applicable” or “NA”. If your application is incomplete it may be returned to you and this will delay the processing of your application.

If you need more space for any section, print out an additional page containing the appropriate section, complete it and submit it along with your application.

Important: Please note that some sections of the Generic Application Form for Canada [IMM 0008] (PDF, 652 KB) may not apply to this temporary public policy.

Under “Application Details”

  • For question 1, select “Other”
  • For question 2, select “In Canada – Humanitarian and Compassionate Considerations”

Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)

Who must fill out this application form?

This form must be completed by:

  • you, the principal applicant

Completing the form

You must answer all questions on this application form unless otherwise indicated.

Download and fill out the application form on a computer. The Generic Application Form for Canada [IMM 0008] must be validated with 2D barcodes.

Make sure that

  • you properly validate your answers when filling out this form
  • the 2D barcodes are properly generated

If the 2D barcodes are missing or can’t be machine read for any reason, the application will be returned to you without being processed.

You also have the option of saving your form and completing it later.

Note: Completing the form electronically is easier and reduces the risk of errors that can slow down the application process.

Read and follow the steps below to help you fill out the form.


Application Details

Question 1

From the list, select the Program under which you are applying:

  • Family
  • Economic
  • Refugee
  • Other
Question 2

From the list, select the Category under which you are applying:

  • If you chose “Family” in question 1, select one of the following:
    • Spouse
    • Common-law partner
    • Conjugal partner
    • Dependent child/adopted child
    • Child to be adopted in Canada
    • Parents/grandparents
    • Orphaned
      sibling/nephew/niece/grandchild
    • Other relative
  • If you chose “Economic” in question 1, select one of the following:
    • Agri-Food Pilot
    • Atlantic Immigration Program
    • Home Child Care Provider Pilot
    • Home Support Worker Pilot
    • Rural and Northern Immigration Program
    • Federal Skilled Worker
    • Federal Skilled Trades
    • Self-Employed
    • Provincial Nominee
    • Canadian Experience Class
    • Quebec Selected Skilled Worker
    • Quebec Selected Entrepreneur
    • Quebec Selected Self Employed
    • Quebec Selected Investor
    • Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP)
    • Start-up Business
    • Caregivers Program (select for the Interim Pathway for Caregivers)
    • High Medical Needs Program
    • Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program
    • TR to PR pathway
  • If you chose “Refugee” in question 1, select one of the following:
    • In Canada – Refugee Claim
    • In Canada – Protected Person (for Convention Refugees or other protected persons applying for permanent residence from within Canada)
    • Outside Canada – Refugee (for Convention Refugees or other protected persons applying for permanent residence from outside Canada)
  • If you chose “Other” in question 1, select one of the following:
    • In Canada – Humanitarian & Compassionate Considerations
    • Permit Holder Class
    • Temporary Public Policy for Out-of-Status Construction Workers in the Greater Toronto Area
Question 3

Enter the total number of family members included in your application. This includes yourself and any family members, regardless of whether they intend to accompany you to Canada or not.

For refugee claimants in Canada only: Enter the total number of family members included in your application for refugee protection who are with you in Canada.

Question 4

Language preference

From the list, select your preferred language for:

  1. correspondence
  2. interview: if your native language is not in this list, select “Other
  3. interpreter requested: you must select “Yes” if you do not select English or French for the interview
Question 5

Where do you plan on living in Canada?

From the list select the:

  1. Province/Territory
  2. City/Town
Question 6

If you plan to live in the Province of Quebec and are applying under a Quebec economic immigration program, have you received your Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ)?

  1. Select the corresponding box
  2. If you selected “Yes”, enter the CSQ number
  3. If you selected “No”, enter the date when you applied for your CSQ (if you have not yet applied, please do so before applying for permanent residence)

Note: If you are not applying under a Quebec immigration program, select “No” for Question 6 a) and leave 6 c) blank.


Principal Applicant’s Personal Details

The principal applicant must answer the following questions.

Question 1

Enter your full family name (surname or last name) as shown on your passport, travel document or identity document.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, indicate your family name(s).

Enter all of your given name(s) (first, second or more) as shown on your passport, travel document or identity document. Do not use initials.

If you don’t have a family name on your passport or travel document, enter all given names in the family name field and leave the given name field blank.

If you don’t have a given name on your passport or travel document, leave the given name field blank.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, enter “Child” or leave the given name field blank.

Question 2

Nickname/Alias

Select the box to tell us if you have ever used any other names than those indicated in question 1. This could be your birth name, maiden name, married name, nickname, etc. If “Yes” enter your nickname/alias in the family name(s) and given name(s) fields.

Question 3

If you know your unique client identifier (UCI) number or client identification number (client ID), enter it here without any spaces. If you applied for temporary or permanent residence in the past, this is an 8 or 10 digit number you can find on previous documents sent by us. If this is your first application with us, or if you do not know your UCI, leave this space blank.

Question 4

From the list, select your gender (F – Female, M – Male, U – Unknown or X – Another gender).

Note: If you choose the “X” gender identifier and you currently have or have had a Canadian temporary resident document (visa, electronic travel authorization, work permit or study permit) with a gender identifier other than “X”, you need to complete the Request form for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier [IRM 0002] (PDF, 1.79 MB) form and send it with your application. You also need to complete this form and send it with your application if you’ve never had a Canadian temporary resident document but you intend to apply for one and you identify with a gender that is different than what appears on your foreign travel document or passport. No supporting documents are required.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, select “U – Unknown”.

Question 5

Enter your height in either centimetres or feet and inches.

Question 6

From the list, select your eye colour.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, select “Other”.

Question 7

Enter your date of birth. If you do not know your complete date of birth, use “01” to fill in the spaces for the unknown year, month or day. Include a letter of explanation saying why you couldn’t include the complete date.

Question 8

Enter your place of birth, including the city or town and country of birth, as shown in your passport or your travel document.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, indicate “Unknown” for the city or town and select the country where you intend to adopt a child.

Question 9

Citizenship(s)

  1. From the list, select your country of citizenship.
  2. If you are a citizen of more than one country, select your other country of citizenship.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, select the country where you intend to adopt a child.

Question 10

Current country of residence

From the list, select

  • The name of your current country of residence. Your country of residence is the country in which you are residing, provided that you have been lawfully admitted to that country.

For refugee claimants in Canada only: select “Canada” whether you have been lawfully admitted or not.

  • Your immigration status in that country (indicate one of the following):
    • Citizen
    • Permanent resident
    • Visitor
    • Worker
    • Student
    • Other
    • Protected Person
    • Refugee Claimant
    • Foreign National
  • Other: This section must be completed if you selected “Other” as a status.
  • Fill in the dates (From – To) you have been living in your current country of residence.

For out-of-status applicants

  • for “Status,” select “Other
  • for “Other,” type in “Out of status, requires restoration”
  • leave the “From” and “To” boxes blank

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, select the country where you intend to adopt a child and “Citizen” as the immigration status in that country.

Question 11

Enter the date of your last entry to Canada, if applicable.

Enter the place you last entered Canada (for example, Toronto airport, Lacolle border crossing, seaport Yarmouth).

Question 12

Previous countries of residence

Select the box to tell us if you have lived in any country other than your country of citizenship or your current country of residence for more than 6 months in the past 5 years.

If you checked “Yes”, for each country

  • select the name of the country you lived in
  • select your immigration status for the time you were in that country:
    • Citizen
    • Permanent resident
    • Visitor
    • Worker
    • Student
    • Other
    • Protected Person
    • Refugee Claimant
    • Foreign National
  • Other: This section must be completed if you selected “Other” as a status
  • fill in the dates (From – To) you were living in that country
Question 13
  1. From the list, choose your current marital status:

    Annulled Marriage

    This is a marriage that is legally declared as not valid. An annulment can also be a declaration by the Catholic Church that the marriage union did not have a binding force.

    Common-Law

    This means that you have lived continuously with your partner in a marital-type relationship for a minimum of 1 year.

    Divorced

    This means that you are officially separated and have legally ended your marriage.

    Legally Separated

    This means that you are married but no longer living with your spouse.

    Married

    This means that you and your spouse have had a ceremony that legally binds you to each other. Your marriage must be legally recognized in the country where it was performed and in Canada.

    Single

    This means that you have never been married and are not in a common-law relationship.

    Widowed

    This means that your spouse has died and that you have not re-married or entered into a common-law relationship.

  2. Enter the date (year, month and day) you were married or you entered into your current common-law relationship.

  3. Enter the family name(s) and given name(s) of your current spouse or common-law partner.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, select “Single”.

Question 14

Select the box to tell us if you have been married or in a common-law relationship. If you checked “Yes”, give the following details for your previous spouse or common-law partner:

  • Family name(s)
  • Given name(s)
  • Type of relationship:
    • Common-law, or
    • Married.
  • Dates (From – To) for which you were in the relationship with your previous spouse/common-law partner
  • Date of birth.

Contact Information

Question 1

Enter your current mailing address (where information should be mailed) by typing the following information:

  • Post office box (P.O. box) number, if applicable. If you do not enter a post office box, you must provide the street number,
  • Apartment (Apt.) or Unit, if applicable,
  • Street number (no.), if applicable. It is the number on your house or apartment building. You must provide a street number if you did not enter in a P.O. box,
  • Street name, if applicable,
  • City or Town,
  • From the list, select the Country of your current mailing address,
  • Province or State,
  • Postal code or zip code,
  • District, if applicable.

Note: All correspondence will go to this address unless you indicate your email address.

If you wish to have a representative who can conduct business on your behalf, you must provide their address in this section and on the Use of a Representative [IMM 5476] (PDF, 264 KB) form.

For more information, read the Use of a Representative guide.

Question 2

Select the box to tell us if your residential address (where you live) is the same as your mailing address. If “No”, enter the following information:

  • Apartment (Apt.) or Unit, if applicable,
  • Street number (no.). It is the number on your house or apartment building,
  • Street name,
  • City or Town,
  • Country,
  • Province or State,
  • Postal code or zip code,
  • District, if applicable.
Question 3

Enter your telephone number including the country code, area/regional codes, etc.

If you have an extension number, indicate it after your phone number under “Ext.”

Select the box to tell us if your telephone number is from Canada or the US or Other (any other country).

From the list, select the type of telephone:

  • Residence (home);
  • Cellular (cell/mobile);
  • Business (work).
Question 4

If you have a second telephone number, enter it here, including the country code, area/regional codes, etc.

If you have an extension number, indicate it after your phone number under “Ext.”

Providing an alternate telephone number will help make sure we can contact you with information about your application.

Select the box to tell us if your second telephone number is from Canada or the US or Other (any other country).

From the list, select the type of telephone:

  • Residence (home);
  • Cellular (cell/mobile);
  • Business (work).
Question 5

If you have a fax number, enter it here, including country code, area/regional codes, etc.

Select the box to tell us if the facsimile (fax) number is from Canada or the US or Other (any other country).

Question 6

If you have an email address, enter it here (for example, name@provider.net).

Note: By indicating your email address, you are hereby authorizing IRCC to transmit your file and personal information to this specific email.


Passport

Question 1

Select the box to tell us if you have a valid passport or travel document. If you don’t have one or can’t obtain one, you must select the “No” box.

Question 2

If you select “Yes”, provide your passport or travel document number exactly as shown on the document. Make sure there is no space between each number or letter.

Question 3

From the list, select the name of the country or territory that issued your passport or travel document.

Question 4

Enter the date your passport or travel document was issued.

Question 5

Enter the date your passport or travel document will expire.

Question 6

For this trip, select “Yes” or “No” to tell us if you are using a passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that shows your personal identification number.

Question 7

For this trip, select “Yes” or “No” to tell us if you are using a National Israeli passport.


National Identity Document

Question 1

Select the box to tell us if you have a valid national identity document.

Question 2

If you selected “Yes”, provide your national identity document number exactly as shown on the identity document. Make sure there is no space between each number or letter.

Question 3

From the list, select the name of the country or territory that issued your national identity document.

Question 4

Enter the date your national identity document was issued.

Question 5

Enter the date your national identity document will expire.


Education/Occupation Detail

Question 1

From the list, select your highest level of education.

  • None: No education
  • Secondary or less: High school diploma obtained after elementary school and before college, university, or other formal training.
  • Trade/Apprenticeship Certificate/Diploma: Diploma completed in a specific trade, such as carpentry or auto mechanics.
  • Non-University Certificate/Diploma: Training in a profession that requires formal education but not at the university level (e.g., dental technician or engineering technician).
  • Post-Secondary – No Degree: Post-secondary studies at a college or university but no degree earned.
  • Bachelor’s Degree: Academic degree awarded by a college or university to those who have completed an undergraduate curriculum; also called a baccalaureate. Examples include a Bachelor of Arts, Science or Education.
  • Post Graduate – No Degree: Post-graduate studies at a college or university but no degree earned (Master or PhD).
  • Master’s Degree: Academic degree awarded by a graduate school of a college or university. You must have completed a Bachelor’s degree before a Master’s degree can be earned.
  • Doctorate – PhD: Highest university degree, usually based on at least 3 years of graduate studies and a thesis. Normally, you must have completed a Master’s degree before a PhD can be earned.
Question 2

Enter the total number of years of formal education that you have completed, including elementary and secondary school.

Question 3

Enter your current occupation.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, indicate “Unknown”.

Question 4

Enter your intended occupation in Canada.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, indicate “Unknown”.


Language Detail

Question 1

This question is not for selection purposes. One of Canada’s immigration objectives is to support and assist the development of minority language communities in Canada.

  1. From the list, select your first (native) language. This is the language that you learned at home during your childhood and that you still understand. If your native language is not in this list, select “Other”.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, select the native language of the country where you intend to adopt a child.

  1. From the list, select whether you are able to communicate in English and/or French:
    • English
    • French
    • Both
    • Neither
  2. If you selected “Both”, choose whether you are most at ease in English or French.
  3. Select “Yes” or “No” to tell us whether you have taken a test from a designated testing agency to assess your proficiency in English or French.

Dependant(s)

You must answer each question on behalf of each of your dependants.

To add a new dependant to the application, click the “Add Dependant” button, located at the bottom of the page.

To remove a dependant from the application, click the “Remove Dependant” button.

You can add up to 5 dependants using this form.

If you have more than 5 dependants:

To include everyone in your application, you must complete the following form for each additional family member:

Important

You must list all family members in your application for permanent residence, whether they are accompanying you to Canada or not. You must also provide details on family members whose location is unknown (including those missing or presumed dead). If these family members are not listed on your application, you will not be able to sponsor them at a later date.


Dependant’s Personal Details

Questions 1–9

Questions 1 to 9 are the same questions you answered for yourself. See the previous instructions to help you answer the questions for your dependant(s).

Question 10
  1. From the list, select your dependant’s relationship to you, the principal applicant:
    • Adopted Child
    • Adoptive Parent
    • Child
    • Common-Law Partner
    • Grandchild
    • Parent
    • Spouse
    • Step-Child
    • Step-Grandchild
    • Other
  2. Complete if you select “Other”.
Question 11
  1. Select the box to tell us if your dependant will accompany you to Canada.
  2. If you answered “No”, explain why your dependant is non-accompanying.
Question 12

From the list, select the type of dependant:

Type A
The dependant is under the age of 22 and single (not married and not in a common-law relationship).
Type B (Important: This dependant type applies only if your child’s age was locked in before August 1, 2014)
The dependant has been continuously enrolled in and in attendance as a full-time student at a post-secondary institution accredited by the relevant government authority and has depended substantially on the financial support of a parent since before the age of 22.
Type C
The dependant is 22 years of age or older, has depended substantially on the financial support of a parent since before the age of 22, and is unable to provide for themselves because of a medical condition.

Not sure which type of dependant your child is? Check if your child qualifies as a dependant by answering a few questions.

Question 13

Current country of residence

  • From the list, select the name of your dependant’s current country of residence. The country of residence is the country in which they are residing, provided they have been lawfully admitted to that country.

For refugee claimants in Canada only: select “Canada” whether your dependant has been lawfully admitted or not.

  • Indicate one of the following as your dependant’s immigration status in that country:
    • Citizen
    • Permanent resident
    • Visitor
    • Worker
    • Student
    • Other
    • Protected Person
    • Refugee Claimant
    • Foreign National
  • Other: This section must be completed if you selected “Other” as a status.
  • Fill in the dates (From – To) your dependant has been living in their current country of residence.

For out-of-status applicants

  • for “Status,” select “Other
  • for “Other,” type in “Out of status, requires restoration”
  • leave the “From” and “To” boxes blank
Question 14

Enter the date of your dependant’s last entry to Canada.

Tell us the place they last entered Canada (for example, Toronto airport, Lacolle border crossing, seaport Yarmouth).

Question 15

Previous countries of residence

Select the box to tell us if your dependant has lived in any country other than their country of citizenship or their current country of residence for more than 6 months in the past 5 years.

If you checked “Yes,”

  • select the name of the country your dependant lived in from the list
  • select your dependant’s immigration status for the time they were in that country:
    • Citizen
    • Permanent resident
    • Visitor
    • Worker
    • Student
    • Other
    • Protected Person
    • Refugee Claimant
    • Foreign National
  • Other: This section must be completed if you selected “Other” as a status
  • fill in the dates (From – To) your dependant was living in that country
Question 16
  1. From the list, select your dependant’s current marital status:

    • Annulled Marriage
    • Common-Law
    • Divorced
    • Legally Separated
    • Married
    • Single
    • Widowed
  2. Enter the date (year, month and day) your dependant was married or entered into their current common-law relationship.
  3. Tell us the family name(s) and given name(s) of your dependant’s current spouse or common-law partner.
Question 17

Select the box to tell us if your dependant has previously been married or in a common-law relationship. If you selected “Yes”, give the following details for your dependant’s previous spouse or common-law partner:

  • Family name(s)
  • Given name(s)
  • Type of relationship:
    • Common-law, or
    • Married.
  • Dates (From – To) your dependant was in the relationship with their previous spouse or common-law partner

Passport

Question 1

Select the box to tell us if your dependant has a valid passport or travel document. If they don’t have one or can’t obtain one, you must select the “No” box.

Question 2

If you selected “Yes”, provide their passport or travel document number exactly as shown on the document. Make sure there is no space between each number or letter.

Question 3

From the list, select the name of the country or territory that issued their passport or travel document.

Question 4

Enter the date their passport or travel document was issued.

Question 5

Enter the date their passport or travel document will expire.

Question 6

For this trip, select “Yes” or “No” to tell us if they’re using a passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that shows their personal identification number.

Question 7

For this trip, select “Yes” or “No” to tell us if they’re using a National Israeli passport.


National Identity Document

Question 1

Select the box to tell us if your dependant has a valid national identity document.

Question 2

If you selected “Yes”, provide their national identity document number exactly as shown on the document. Make sure there is no space between each number or letter.

Question 3

From the list, select the name of the country or territory that issued their national identity document.

Question 4

Enter the date their national identity document was issued.

Question 5

Enter the date their national identity document will expire.


Education/Occupation Detail

Question 1

From the list, select your dependant’s highest level of education.

  • None: No education
  • Secondary or less: High school diploma obtained after elementary school and before college, university, or other formal training.
  • Trade/Apprenticeship Certificate/Diploma: Diploma completed in a specific trade, such as carpentry or auto mechanics.
  • Non-university Certificate/Diploma: Training in a profession that requires formal education but not at the university level (e.g., dental technician or engineering technician).
  • Post-Secondary – No Degree: Post-secondary studies at a college or university but no degree earned.
  • Bachelor’s Degree: Academic degree awarded by a college or university to those who have completed an undergraduate curriculum; also called a baccalaureate. Examples include a Bachelor of Arts, Science or Education.
  • Post Graduate – No Degree: Post-graduate studies at a college or university but no degree earned (Master or PhD).
  • Master’s Degree: Academic degree awarded by a graduate school of a college or university. You must have completed a Bachelor’s degree before a Master’s degree can be earned.
  • Doctorate – PhD: Highest university degree, usually based on at least 3 years of graduate studies and a thesis. Normally, you must have completed a Master’s degree before a PhD can be earned.
Question 2

Tell us the total number of years of formal education that they have completed, including elementary and secondary school.

Question 3

Tell us their current occupation.

Question 4

Tell us their intended occupation in Canada.


Language Detail

Question 1

This question is not for selection purposes. One of Canada’s immigration objectives is to support and assist the development of minority language communities in Canada.

  1. From the list, select your dependant’s first (native) language. This is the language that they learned at home during their childhood and they still understand. If their native language does not appear in this list, select “Other”.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada who is not yet identified, select the native language of the country where you intend to adopt a child.

  1. From the list, select if they are able to communicate in English and/or French:
    • English
    • French
    • Both
    • Neither
  2. If you selected “Both”, choose whether they are most at ease in English or French.
  3. Select “Yes” or “No” to tell us whether they have taken a test from a designated testing agency to assess their proficiency in English or French.

Consent and Declaration of Applicant

  1. Once the application is completed, click on the “Validate” button located at the top or bottom of the form. This will generate a barcode page or pages (see image below).

    Barcode

    Note: This barcode page will not appear if you fill out your application by hand.

  2. Print all pages of your application form.

  3. Read all of the statements in all sections carefully and

    1. write your name in the space provided.
    2. check the appropriate box to indicate if you agree that the information contained in this application related to your intended occupation, education and work experience may be shared with prospective employers in order to assist them in hiring workers
    3. sign, with a handwritten signature, and date in the spaces provided

    By signing, you certify that you fully understand the questions asked, and that the information you have provided is complete, truthful, and correct. If you do not sign and date, the application will be returned to you.

  4. Place the barcode page(s) on the top of your application (forms and supporting documents) when you submit it.


Additional Dependants/Declaration (IMM 0008DEP)

Who must fill out this application form?

This form must be completed by

  • you, the principal applicant, on behalf of each of your dependants not included in the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008).

The questions are the same as the ones that you answered for yourself and other dependants on the IMM 0008 form.

Follow the previous instructions to help you answer the questions.


Consent and Declaration of Applicant

Read all of the statements in all sections carefully and then

  1. write your dependant’s name in the space provided
  2. select the box to tell us if you agree that the information contained in this application related to your dependant’s intended occupation, education and work experience may be shared with prospective employers to assist them in hiring workers
  3. sign and date in the spaces provided

By signing, you certify that your dependant fully understands the questions asked, and that the information you have provided is complete, truthful, and correct. If you do not sign and date, the application will be returned to you.

Note: If you are less than 18 years of age, your form must be signed by one of your parents or a legal guardian.

Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)

This form must be completed by:

  • you, the principal applicant;
  • your spouse or common-law partner (whether accompanying you to Canada or not), and
  • your dependent children aged 18 years or older (whether accompanying you to Canada or not).

For refugee claimants in Canada: Only family members included in your application for refugee protection who are with you in Canada must complete this form.

Question 1

Enter your full family name (surname or last name) exactly as it is shown on your passport, travel or identity document.

Enter all of your given name(s) (first, second or more) exactly as they are shown on your passport, travel or identity document. Do not use initials.

Question 2

Enter your name in your native language or script (if applicable).

For example: Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Japanese characters or Chinese commercial/telegraphic code.

Question 3

Enter your date of birth. If you do not know your complete date of birth, please use an “*” (asterisk) to fill in the spaces for the unknown year, month or day. For example, if the day and month of your date of birth is unknown you could enter 1964/*/*.

Question 4

Provide your father’s personal details including their:

  • family name (surname or last name),
  • given name(s),
  • date of birth,
  • town or city of birth,
  • country of birth,
  • date of death (if applicable).
Question 5

Provide your mother’s personal details including their:

  • family name (surname or last name),
  • given name(s),
  • date of birth,
  • town or city of birth,
  • country of birth,
  • date of death (if applicable).
Question 6

Answer each question by checking the appropriate box.

If you answered “Yes” to one or more of these questions, you must explain what happened in the space provided. If you need more space, attach a separate sheet of paper.

For questions 7-12, when answering:

  • Do not use abbreviations
  • Do not leave gaps in time

If a question doesn’t apply to you, write “N/A” in the question.

If you need more space, attach a separate sheet of paper.

small exclamation warning signImportant information: Processing will be delayed if you do not account for all periods of time.

Question 7

Education

Enter the number of years of formal education you have completed at each of the levels indicated.

Provide the details about each secondary and post-secondary educational institution you attended, including the:

  • period of time that you attended the institution,
  • name of the institution,
  • city and country,
  • type of certificate or diploma issued, and
  • field of study.

If no diploma was issued, write “N/A”. If you need more space, attach a separate sheet of paper.

Question 8

Provide the details of your personal history since the age of 18, or the past 10 years, whichever is most recent.

Start with the most recent information.

If you were working:

  • under “Activity”, enter your occupation or job title.
  • make sure you provide a specific job title
  • If your job title is not clear, provide a brief list of your duties

If you were not working:

  • Explain what you were doing (for example: unemployed, studying, travelling, retired, in detention, etc.)

If you were outside your country of nationality, enter your status of the country you were in.

Important information: Please ensure that you do not leave any gaps in time. Failure to account for all time periods will result in a delay in the processing of your application.

Question 9: Membership in organizations

If you were or still are a member of an association or organizing, enter the names here.

This includes:

  • political organizations,
  • social organizations,
  • youth or student organizations,
  • trade unions, and
  • professional associations.

If you were not a member of an association or organization, do not write “not applicable”. Instead, enter: “I have never been a member of an organization or association”.

Question 10

Enter any government positions you have held in the past such as:

  • Civil servant;
  • Judge;
  • Police officer;
  • Employee in a security organization;
  • Etc.

Enter “NONE” in the box if you have not been a member of an association or organization.

Include:

  • the name of the country and the level of jurisdiction (examples: national, regional or municipal),
  • the name of the department or the branch you worked for, and
  • activities and/or positions that you held.

Note: Do not use abbreviations.

Question 11

Give complete details about your military or paramilitary service (if applicable). Provide the details of your military or paramilitary service for each of the countries whose armed forces you served in. If you were not in any military or paramilitary service, write “NONE”. Do not leave gaps in time.

Question 12

Enter the residential addresses where you have lived since your 18th birthday or the past 10 years, whichever is most recent, complete with the postal code. Do not use P.O. Box addresses.

Authority to disclose personal information
Declaration of applicant

Read all of the statements in all sections carefully. Sign and date in the boxes provided. By signing, you certify that you fully understand the questions asked, and that the information you have provided is complete, truthful, and correct. If you do not sign and date, the application will be returned to you.

Note: The bottom section of Schedule A should not be completed at this time.

Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)

This form must be completed by:

  • You, as the principal applicant,
  • Your spouse or common-law partner (whether accompanying you to Canada or not), and
  • Your dependent children aged 18 or over (whether accompanying you to Canada or not).

Section A

Write the personal details for:

  • Yourself:
    • If when selecting your marital status, you indicate that you are married, select the option that corresponds to your situation:
      • Check “Yes”, if you were physically present at the marriage ceremony
      • Check “No”, if you were not physically present at the marriage ceremony
  • Your spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner (if this applies)
    • If you are married, select the option that corresponds to your situation:
      • Check “Yes”, if your spouse was physically present at the marriage ceremony;
      • Check “No”, if your spouse was not physically present at the marriage ceremony.
  • Your parent 1 (mother or father), and
  • Your parent 2 (mother or father).

Section B

Write the personal details for your children. It is very important that you list all of your children (even if they are already permanent residents or citizens of Canada). This includes:

  • married children,
  • adopted children,
  • children of your spouse(step-children) or common-law partner,
  • any of your children who have been adopted by others,
  • any of your children who are in the custody of an ex-spouse, former common-law partner or other guardian.

You must answer all questions. If any sections do not apply to you, answer “N/A”.

Section C

Write personal details about your:

  • brother(s),
  • sister(s),
  • half-brother(s) and half-sister(s), and
  • step-brother(s) and step-sister(s).

Section D

After carefully reading the statements contained in this section, sign and date the declaration.

Note: Once you have filled out the form, click on the “Validate” button located at the top or bottom of the form.  Missing information will be identified by a pop up when you press the “validate” button. You should fill out your forms on a computer and validate them electronically to reduce mistakes and help you submit forms that are complete.

Note: The form will not produce a barcode when it is validated.

For more information about the “validate” button, visit the Help Centre.

Use of a Representative (IMM 5476)

Who may use this form?

Fill out this form only if you:

  • are appointing a representative;
  • need to update contact information for your previously appointed representative; or
  • are cancelling a representative’s appointment.

If you have dependent children aged 18 years or older, they must fill out their own copy of this form if a representative is also conducting business on their behalf.

Who is a representative?

A representative is someone who:

  • you have appointed by completing the IMM 5476 form;
  • gives advice, consultation, or guidance to you at any stage of the application process; and
  • has your consent to conduct business on your behalf with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

You are not obliged to hire a representative. We treat everyone equally, whether they use the service of a representative or not.

For more information, see: Use of a Representative.

Notify IRCC about any changes

You must use this Web form to tell us if any information changes regarding the person you authorized to represent you on your application.

Step 3. Pay the Fees

Calculating your fees

Use the table below to calculate the total amount of fees to be paid. The processing fee must be included with your application.

We recommend you pay the right of permanent residence fee ($515) now to avoid delays. You will have to pay it before you become a permanent resident.

Application (per person) $CAN
Your application
Processing fee ($570) and right of permanent residence fee ($515)
1,085
Your application (without right of permanent residence fee) 570
Include your spouse or partner
Processing fee ($570) and right of permanent residence fee ($515)
1,085
Include your spouse or partner (without right of permanent residence fee) 570
Include a dependent child 155

Note: The following persons are exempt from paying the Right of Permanent Residence Fee of $515:

  • Your dependent children;
  • You, if you are the principal applicant and the dependent child of a permanent resident or Canadian citizen. You must meet the definition of “dependent child” at the time of the application;
  • You and your family members, if you are a protected person.
Biometrics fees $CAN
Biometrics (per person) 85
Biometrics (per family) (2 or more people)

Maximum fee for a family of 2 or more people applying at the same time and place

170

How to pay the fees for your application

To pay your fees for your application you’ll need:

  • a valid e-mail address;
  • access to a printer (you’ll need to print the receipt), and
  • a credit card, Debit MasterCard® or Visa® Debit card.

Visit the link below and follow these instructions to pay:

  • Go to Online Payment.
  • Follow the online instructions.
    • At the end, click on the button to print the IRCC official receipt with barcode. Print two copies.
  • Attach a copy of this receipt to your completed application.
    • Keep the second copy of the receipt for your records.

stop sign hand Do not exit without printing the receipt! The printed receipt is your proof of payment!

Payment Issues

No fee included or insufficient fees

If you do not pay the full fees for your application(s) we will return your application(s). We will only start processing your application after you return it with the correct fees.

blue question mark For immigration applications, see section 10 of the IRPR and for citizenship applications, see section 13 of the Citizenship Act for more information.

Overpayment

If you pay more than the fees needed for your application(s) we will start processing your application, and send you a refund as soon as possible.

Note: You don’t have to ask for a refund. It will be done automatically.

Note: If you’re eligible for a refund, we will issue the refund to the person indicated on the Payer Information section of the receipt (if a receipt is attached to a paper application or uploaded as part of an online application). If you paid directly within an online application (no receipt attached), or if there is no name indicated on the receipt, we will send the refund to the applicant.

stop sign

Only online payments are accepted in Canada. If any other forms of payment are received, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will return your application.

Additional fees

You will also have to pay fees to third parties for yourself and your family members (if applicable) for:

Step 4. Mailing your application

Where to mail the application?

Important information: Your application must be submitted no later than May 11, 2022.

Don’t use staples, binders, plastic sleeves, folders or albums to submit your application. Elastic bands or paper clips to attach photos are acceptable.

Mail your completed application in a stamped envelope to the address shown below:

Affix sufficient postage (top right of the envelope)
Sender (top left of the envelope)
(Your name)
(Your Address)
(Your Postal Code)
IRCC - Humanitarian Migration Vancouver
Victims of air disasters public policy - VAD
#300-800 Burrard St
Vancouver, B.C.
V6Z 0B6

Note: All applications for permanent residence under this public policy must be sent directly to the Humanitarian Migration Office in Vancouver. This office will not accept or process any applications for renewal of temporary resident status.

Submit the document checklist

Make sure you use and submit the Document Checklist [IMM 0129] (PDF, 2.3 MB) along with your application forms and supporting documents.



Note

Sign the form

The application must be signed and dated before it is submitted.

If you are:

  • 18 years of age or older, sign and date in the boxes provided at the bottom of the page,
  • less than 18 years of age, your form must be signed by one of your parents or legal guardian.

Note: If your application is not signed and dated, it will be returned to you.


Submit the application form

When submitting your application, to ensure your encoded data is captured, you must include the last page or pages which contain your unique barcodes. See the image below:

Sample Barcodes

Note: This page is only available when you complete your application electronically (on a computer).

Mail your application

Do not fold documents. Don’t use staples, binders, plastic sleeves, folders or albums to submit your application. Elastic bands or paper clips to attach photos are acceptable.

For your personal records, you should make photocopies of all documentation, forms and your fee receipt submitted with your application.

Do not include pre-paid return envelopes.

You may want to send your application via registered mail or Xpresspost to track the delivery.


What you can do to help processing

There are certain things you can do to help make sure your application is processed as fast as possible:

  • submit all documents and information we have asked for with your application
  • pay your application and biometric fees (if required)
  • provide your biometrics as soon as possible (if required)
  • tell us if your contact information changes, including:
    • mailing address;
    • telephone numbers;
    • facsimile number (fax);
    • e-mail address.

Things that delay processing

The following may delay processing:

  • unclear photocopies of documents;
  • verification of your information and documents;
  • a medical condition that may need more tests or consultations;
  • a criminal or security issue;
  • consultation is needed with other offices in Canada or abroad.

What Happens Next

What you will receive from us

The following outlines what you can expect to receive from us as a result of submitting this application.

Upon reception:

When processing:

Medical requirements

Do not undergo an immigration medical exam unless we advise you to do so. A medical exam will be required and you’ll receive instructions after you submit your application.

All your family members who are not already Canadian citizens or permanent residents must undergo and pass an immigration medical exam, even if they will not be processed for permanent residence with your application. Family members who do not undergo and pass a medical exam will not be eligible to be sponsored at a later date. Your family members will be contacted by the processing office in their area with instructions on their medical exams.


Police certificates

If you and your family members are 18 years of age and older and aren’t permanent residents or Canadian citizens, you must provide a valid police certificate for any country other than Canada in which you spent 6 or more months in a row since the age of 18.

Note: You do not need to provide a police certificate from a country if you or your family members were under 18 years of age the entire time you lived in that country.

If the original certificate isn’t in English or French, you must get an accredited translator to translate it. You must include both the police certificate and the translation.

We’ll also do our own background checks to see if there are reasons why you or your family members may not be admissible to Canada.

For specific and up-to-date information, see our guide on where to get a police certificate.

Applicants that intend to reside in Quebec

If you intend to reside in Québec, after we have reviewed your application and determined that you meet the eligibility criteria for the public policy, you will be invited to apply for a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ).

We will refer your application to the provincial immigration authority, called the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) on your behalf.

If the MIFI refuses to issue a CSQ, your application we will continue to process your application for permanent residence, provided you no longer live in the province of Québec.

Permanent resident status

If your application is successful, you and your family members will receive status as permanent residents of Canada. To prepare, see Understanding permanent resident status.

Updating your contact information or application

While your application is in process, you must tell us if you change your address, email address, or telephone number. Use the Change your address tool to give us your new contact information.

If your circumstances change, you must inform IRCC. It is your responsibility to ensure that the information in your application is correct and up-to-date. Decisions made on your application will be based on the information we have at the time your application is reviewed.

You can send updates

IRCC - Humanitarian Migration Vancouver
Victims of air disasters public policy - VAD
#300-800 Burrard St
Vancouver, B.C.
V6Z 0B6

Checking application status

You can use a courier service that needs a delivery signature to find out when we get your application package. This lets you confirm delivery and track your package until it gets to us.

When you get your acknowledgement of receipt letter, you can check the status of your application online.

If you can’t view the status of your application, you may contact us to report technical problems.

Withdrawing your application

If you wish to withdraw your application, you must do so in writing. Make sure to indicate your UCI, family name and first name on all correspondence with us. You must send your notification by email or by mail.

Protecting your information

Your personal information is:

  • available to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) employees who need to see it to provide the services to you, and
  • not disclosed to other organizations except as permitted under the provisions of the Privacy Act or the Citizenship Regulations.

For more information about the protection of your data, visit the Frequently Asked Questions/Help Centre.

Quality Assurance Program

Our quality assurance program randomly chooses applications for a special review. If chosen, we will ask you to attend an interview with an IRCC official to:

  • verify that the documentation and any other information you submitted is accurate,
  • verify that your application has been completed properly.

Note: We will notify you in writing if your application is chosen.


Need help?

If you need help, you can find answers to your questions by visiting the Help Centre.

Appendix A: Photo specifications

Notes to the applicant

Take this information with you to the photographer

  • Make sure that you provide the correct number of photos specified in the Checklist.
  • You must provide identical and unaltered photos.
  • Photos may be in colour or in black and white.
  • Photos must be original and not altered in any way or taken from an existing photo.
  • Photos must reflect your current appearance (taken within the past six (6) months).

Notes to the photographer

The photos must be:

  • taken by a commercial photographer;
  • 50 mm x 70 mm (2 inches wide x 2 3/4 inches long) and sized so the height of the face measures between 31 mm and 36 mm (1 1/4 inches and 1 7/16 inches) from chin to crown of head (natural top of head);
  • clear, sharp and in focus;
  • taken with a neutral facial expression (eyes open and clearly visible, mouth closed, no smiling);
  • taken with uniform lighting and not show shadows, glare or flash reflections;
  • taken straight on, with face and shoulders centred and squared to the camera (i.e. the photos must show the full front view of the person’s head and shoulders, showing the full face centered in the middle of the photo);
  • taken in front of a plain white background with a clear difference between the person’s face and the background. Photos must reflect and represent natural skin tones.
Image described below

The back of one (1) photo must include:

  • the name and date of birth of the person in the photo
  • the name and complete address of the photography studio
  • the date the photo was taken;

The photographer may use a stamp or handwrite this information. Stick-on labels are not accepted.

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