Applying for Permanent Residence – Business Class Applicants: Quebec Selected Self-Employed and Federal Self-Employed Persons (IMM 4500)

You now need to apply online

If you can’t apply online, and require accommodations, including for a disability, you can ask for the application in another format (paper, braille or large print).

I can’t apply online and require accommodations

If you, your sponsor (if being sponsored by a family member) or representative cannot apply online and require accommodations, including for a disability, you may ask for an alternative format. After we review your request, we’ll send you the application package in one of these formats:

  • paper
  • braille
  • large print

To request another format:

  1. Open a new email
  2. In the subject line of your email, include:
    • the format you need (paper, braille, or large print), and
    • the application package you want
  3. In the body of your email, include
    • your full name (principal applicant) as shown on your passport
    • the full name of your sponsor, if you’re being sponsored by a family member
    • a statement explaining that you’re asking for an alternate format
    • if you want the application in English or French
    • how we should send it to you (by email or regular mail)
      • Include your email address if you want us to send it electronically so you can print it yourself. This option will save you the time it would take to mail it to you.
      • Include your mailing address if you want it mailed to you.
  4. Send your email to: IRCC.PRPortalALTRequest-DemandeALTPortailRP.IRCC@cic.gc.ca

We will only reply to requests for alternative formats. We won't reply to any other emails.

After we get your request, we’ll reply with instructions and tell you where to send your application.

To submit your application

  • fill out and sign any paper forms
  • return the application by mail or courier to the mailing address provided in our instructions

For more information about applying with an alternate format, call 1-888-242-2100 (from inside Canada only).

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:

Overview

Application package

This application package has:

  • an instruction guide, and
  • the forms you need to fill out.

The instruction guide:

  • has information you must know before you submit your application, and
  • explains how to fill out the forms and gather your supporting documents.

Read the instruction guide completely and then fill out each of the applicable forms.

For an application to be considered complete, the principal applicant must fill out the forms listed below and must submit them all together in the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal for the principal applicant and each of their dependants. Incomplete applications will be returned.

The forms are designed with questions that will help the processing of your application.


Symbols used in this guide

This guide uses these symbols to draw your attention to important information:

Required step
What you must do to have your application processed.
Important information

Important information that you need to know to avoid delays or other problems.

Get more information

Where to get more information.

Note: Tips that will help you with this application.

Before You Apply

Permanent Residence under the Self-Employed Persons Class

Canada welcomes successful business people who are seeking new opportunities and challenges. The Self-Employed Persons Class is designed to encourage and facilitate the admission of these individuals. Both the federal and provincial/territorial governments welcome self-employed immigrants and offer services to help them settle in Canada.

Self-employed persons must have relevant experience within the five-year period immediately preceding the date of application.

Relevant experience in respect of a self-employed person, means

  • For at least two years in the period beginning five years before the date of application:
    • Self-employment in cultural activities or athletics
    • Participation, at the world-class level, in cultural activities or athletics.

Features

  • No immigration conditions are imposed on this class.
  • Self-employed persons must have the experience, intention and ability to:
    • establish a business that will, at a minimum, create an employment opportunity for themselves and that will make a significant contribution to cultural activities or athletics in Canada.

Note: We will no longer be accepting new applications under the farm management stream of the Self-Employed. Find out more.


Want to live in Quebec?

If you plan to live in Quebec as a business immigrant, you must first apply to the Government of Québec for a Selection Certificate (Demande de Certificat de selection), to be completed and returned to the appropriate address.

If your application is approved, you will be issued a Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ). You must then complete our forms and submit them online  along with an electric copy of the CSQ .


Selection criteria for federal self-employed persons (excluding Quebec)

You must first meet the definition of the self-employed persons class to be eligible for assessment against the selection criteria.

If you successfully meet the definition of the self-employed persons class you are applying under, you are then assessed against five selection factors:

  • age,
  • education,
  • official languages,
  • experience, and
  • adaptability.

For each selection factor, a specific number of selection points are allotted.

The following tables will help you estimate how many points you would earn for each factor. If you have a score lower than a total of 35 points, your application may be refused.

Note: The pass mark for all classes of business immigrants is 35.

Important information: It is important that you make a careful assessment before you apply because you must pay certain fees, one of which is non-refundable (the processing fee) even if your application is refused.


What are the selection factors?

Your application to come to Canada under the self-employed persons class will be assessed against a point system consisting of five selection factors. The five selection factors are:

Selection factors Points
Factor 1: Business experience Maximum 35 points
Factor 2: Age Maximum 10 points
Factor 3: Education Maximum 25 points
Factor 4: Ability in English or French Maximum 24 points
Factor 5: Adaptability Maximum 6 points
Total Maximum 100 points
Pass Mark 35 points

If your score is the same or higher than the pass mark, then you may qualify to immigrate to Canada as a business class applicant. Review the information about immigrating to Canada as a business class applicant and decide if you want to apply.

Below is a detailed description of all factors that are to be assessed.


Factor 1: Business experience (maximum of 35 points)

Business experience must have been obtained within the period beginning five years before the date of application.

Experience Points
Two years business experience 20
Three years business experience 25
Four years business experience 30
Five years business experience 35

Factor 2: Age (maximum of 10 points)

Points are given for your age at the time your application is received.

Age Points
16 or under 0
17 2
18 4
19 6
20 8
21-49 10
50 8
51 6
52 4
53 2
54 and over 0

Factor 3: Education (maximum of 25 points)

Points are awarded for earned educational credentials as well as the number of years of full-time studies or full-time equivalent studies. To be awarded points, you must meet both stated criteria.

Educational credential:

Any diploma, degree, trade or apprenticeship credential issued for the completion of a program of study or training at a recognized educational or training institution.

Full-time studies:

At least 15 hours of instruction per week during the academic year. This includes any period of workplace training that forms part of the course.

Full-time equivalent studies:

If you completed a program of study on a part-time or accelerated basis, count the length of time it would have taken to complete the program on a full-time basis.

Use the chart below to determine your points. If you have not completed the number of years of study that correspond to your highest educational credential, award yourself points based on the number of years of study.

Example 1:

If you have a Master’s degree but have completed only 16 years of full-time study, award yourself 22 points.

Example 2:

If you have a four-year Bachelor's degree and have completed 14 or more years of study, award yourself 20 points.

Education Points
You have obtained a Master’s or PhD AND completed at least 17 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 25
You have obtained two or more university educational credentials at the Bachelor's level AND completed at least 15 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 22
You have obtained a three-year post-secondary educational credential AND completed at least 15 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 22
You have obtained a two year university educational credential at the Bachelor's level AND completed at least 14 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 20
You have obtained a two-year post-secondary educational credential AND completed at least 14 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 20
You have obtained a one-year university educational credential at the Bachelor's level AND completed at least 13 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 15
You have obtained a one-year post-secondary educational credential AND completed at least 13 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 15
You have obtained a one-year post-secondary educational credential AND completed at least 12 years of full-time or full-time equivalent study. 12
You have completed secondary school (also called high school).   5
You have not completed secondary school (also called high school). 0

Factor 4: Ability in English or French

The ability to communicate and work in one or both of Canada’s official languages is very important to you as a self-employed person. Proficiency in English, French or both will help you in the Canadian labour market.

You will be awarded up to 24 points for your basic, moderate or high proficiency in English and French. You will be given points based on your ability to:

  • listen,
  • speak,
  • read, and
  • write.

Proof of Language Proficiency

For your application to be eligible for processing, you must include a copy of the results of one of the following language tests from a testing agency designated by IRCC with your application:

English

French

Note: If you do not submit a copy of the results of your official language proficiency test with your application to the Central Intake Office (CIO), your application will not be processed and will be returned to you as incomplete.


Official Language Testing

Take a language proficiency test from a designated testing agency

You must prove the level of language proficiency you claim on your application in order to be awarded points for your language ability.

To do this, you must take a language proficiency test from an agency designated by IRCC before starting the immigration process and submitting your application to the CIO.

Your test results must not be more than two years old at the time that you submit your application.

  1. Make arrangements to take a language proficiency test with a designated testing agency and pay the test costs. Visit Language testing – Skilled immigrants (Express Entry) for a list of designated testing agencies.
  2. Submit the assessment results with your application.

    Note: Do not request that your (IELTS-General Training, CELPIP-General or TEF) language test result be sent directly to the CIO. Submit your original language proficiency test results with your complete application to the CIO.

  3. Consult the “using your test results” section to determine how many points you will be awarded for your language proficiency.

Note: Test results from a designated testing agency will be used as conclusive evidence of your language proficiency. Other evidence in writing will not be accepted as evidence of language proficiency. If you wish to be awarded points for your proficiency in both official languages, include the results of your official English language proficiency test (IELTS – General Training or CELPIP – General) and your official French language proficiency test (TEF) with your application.


Using your test results

Use your language test results from a designated testing agency to determine how many points you will be awarded for language proficiency.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Use the following table to determine how many points you will be awarded for your test scores with the International English Language Testing System (IELTS):

level Points (per ability) Test results for each ability
Speaking Listening Reading (General Training) Writing (General Training)
High First official language: 4
Second official language: 2
6.5 - 9.0 7.5 - 9.0 6.5 - 9.0 6.5 - 9.0
Moderate Either official language: 2 5.5 - 6.0 5.5 - 7.0 5.0 - 6.0 5.5 - 6.0
Basic Either official language: 1 (maximum of 2) 4.0 - 5.0 4.5 - 5.0 3.5 - 4.5 4.0 - 5.0
No 0 Less than 4.0 Less than 4.5 Less than 3.5 Less than 4.0

Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)

Use the following table to determine how many points you will be awarded for your test scores with the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP):

level Points (per ability) Test results for each ability
Speaking Listening Reading Writing
High First official language: 4
Second official language: 2
4H
5
6
4H
5
6
4H
5
6
4H
5
6
Moderate Either official language: 2 3H
4L
3H
4L
3H
4L
3H
4L
Basic Either official language: 1 (maximum of 2) 2H
3L
2H
3L
2H
3L
2H
3L
No 0 0
1
2L
0
1
2L
0
1
2L
0
1
2L

Test d’évaluation de français (TEF)

Use the following table to determine how many points you will be awarded for your test scores with the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF):

level Points (per ability) Test results for each ability
Speaking (expression orale) Listening (compré-
hension orale
)
Reading (compré-
hension écrite
)
Writing (expression écrite)
High First official language: 4
Second official language: 2
Level 5
Level 6
(349-450 pts)
Level 5
Level 6
(280-360 pts)
Level 5
Level 6
(233-300 pts)
Level 5
Level 6
(349-450 pts)
Moderate Either official language: 2 Level 4
(271-348 pts)
Level 4
(217-279 pts)
Level 4
(181-232 pts)
Level 4
(271-348 pts)
Basic Either official language: 1 (maximum of 2) Level 3
(181-270 pts)
Level 3
(145-216 pts)
Level 3
(121-180 pts)
Level 3
(181-270 pts)
No 0 Level 0
Level 1
Level 2
(0-180 pts)
Level 0
Level 1
Level 2
(0-144 pts)
Level 0
Level 1
Level 2
(0-120 pts)
Level 0
Level 1
Level 2
(0-180 pts)

Add your points: Total of speaking + listening + reading + writing = score (both languages)


Factor 5: Adaptability (maximum of 6 points)

A maximum of 6 points for adaptability can be earned by any combination of the following elements:

Adaptability criteria Points
A. Spouse or common-law partner’s level of education
  • Secondary school (high school) diploma or less: 0 points
  • A one-year diploma, trade certificate, apprenticeship, or university degree and at least 12 years of full-time or full-time equivalent studies: 3 points
  • A diploma, trade certificate, apprenticeship, or university degree of two years or more and at least 14 years of full-time or full-time equivalent studies: 4 points
  • A Master’s degree or PhD and at least 17 years of full-time or full-time equivalent studies: 5 points
3 - 5
B. Previous study in Canada:
  • You or your accompanying spouse or common-law partner completed a program of study of at least two years’ duration on a full-time basis at a post-secondary institution in Canada. This must have been done after the age of 17 and with a valid study permit.
5
C. Previous work in Canada:
  • You or your accompanying spouse or common-law partner completed a minimum of one year of full-time work in Canada on a valid work permit.
5
D. Relatives in Canada:
  • You or your accompanying spouse or common-law partner has a relative, i.e., parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, child of a parent (sibling), child of a grandparent (aunt and uncle), or grandchild of a parent (niece or nephew), who lives in Canada and is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
5

Your score for all factors combined

Use the table below to calculate your total score. The pass mark is 35. The maximum possible score for each class is 100. The pass mark is variable and is determined, on an ongoing basis, by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

Factor Maximum points
1: Business experience / Relevant experience 35
2: Age 10
3: Education 25
4: Language proficiency 24
5: Adaptability 6
Total 100

The officer reviewing your application will first determine whether or not you meet the definition of self-employed person.

  • If you meet the definition
    • the officer will then assess your score against the selection criteria
  • If there is a difference between the points you give yourself and the points the officer awards you
    • the officer’s assessment will prevail

Funds required to settle in Canada

The Government of Canada does not provide financial support to business immigrants.

All self-employed persons must establish that they have enough money to support themselves and their family members for at least one year after they arrive in Canada. This is normally satisfied by the net worth requirement.

Note: You should research the cost of living in the region of Canada where you intend to live and have access to enough ready capital for your initial establishment.

You should be aware that Canadian legislation requires persons entering Canada to declare cash funds of $10,000 CDN or more. You will have to disclose these funds to a Canadian official upon arrival. Cash funds means:

  • money (coins or bank notes),
  • securities in bearer form (stocks, bonds, debentures, treasury bills, etc.), and
  • negotiable instruments in bearer form (bank drafts, travellers’ cheques, money orders, etc.).

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.

Using a representative

Note: If a paid representative is submitting your application online on your behalf, they must sign in to their Representative Portal account to do so. You, as the Primary Applicant, need to electronically sign your application and your representative must also provide their declaration before submitting the application.

If you (the principal applicant) want to authorize a representative to act on your behalf (paid or unpaid) you must

If you (the principal applicant) want to allow us to release information from your application to someone other than yourself who will not act as your representative you must

Step 1. Gather Documents

What documents are required?

Collect the documents you need to support your application. These are listed in the Document Checklist [IMM 5784] (PDF, 384.24 KB).

Incomplete applications will be returned by email. For your application to be considered complete, you must include

  • all the information asked for, on the online forms from you
  • the forms completed by the principal applicant, and
  • all supporting documents we ask for

Important information: If you cannot provide one or more documents required on the document checklist, you must provide a written explanation for each missing document so your application is not delayed in processing or returned to you as incomplete. You must also provide any other evidence or documents you have available to satisfy the requirement. Upload them as the document type that was asked for.

It’s helpful to include any proof that you applied to get supporting documents (for example, a marriage certificate payment receipt). The officer processing your application will contact you if they need more information.

Medical requirements

You and your family members must undergo an immigration medical exam (IME)in order to become a permanent resident of Canada. You and your family members must not have a health condition that:

  • is a danger to public health or safety, or
  • would cause excessive demand on health or social services in Canada.

Examples of “excessive demand” include ongoing hospitalization or institutional care for a physical or mental illness.

Find out more about immigration medical exams.

Important information: You must inform us immediately of any change in your marital status or your family composition (e.g. marriage, common-law relationship, separation, divorce, birth of a child, adoption of a child, death, etc). Any family member who has not been examined before you become a permanent resident can never be sponsored by you in the future.

Instructions

Information on medical instructions will be provided to you by the IRCC office. When you receive your assessment notice you will also receive medical forms for yourself (and any dependants, if applicable) and instructions on how to access a list of doctors in your area who are authorized to conduct IMEs (see below).

Note: You are not required to have an IME before you submit your application forms.

Exam validity

Medical results are valid for twelve months from the date of the IME. If your application is not finalized during this time, you may be required to do another medical exam.

Authorized doctors

The IME must be performed by a doctor from the IRCC list of Panel Physicians. You cannot choose your family doctor if their name is not on this list. See the list of Panel Physicians to find a doctor in your area.

Note that the doctor is only responsible for conducting the IME and cannot give you any advice on the immigration process.


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.


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

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

Filling out the application

Sign in or create a Permanent residence online application portal account.

You must fill out these digital forms online

You’ll fill out these digital forms online (for yourself, and any family members 18 or older)

  • Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) 
  • Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
  • Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
  • Supplementary Information - Your travels (IMM 5562)

You must also fill out these PDF forms

Complete and sign these PDF forms, if they apply to you

Important information: It is a serious offence to give false or misleading information on these forms. The information you provide on your application may be subject to verification.



Important information

Be complete and accurate

Complete all sections. If a section does not apply to you, write “Not Applicable” or “NA”. 

If you need more space for any section, include an additional page containing the appropriate section, complete it and upload it with your application. For the document type, choose “other.”

Uploading additional documents to your online application:

To submit supporting documentation with your online application, select “Other” from the drop-down menu (Document type) and upload your documents or other additional information which can be in any of the following formats: JPG, JPEG or PDF.

Signatures

If signatures are missing (when this applies), we will return the application by email without processing it.

As the principal applicant, you’ll electronically sign for the entire application, including your family members by typing your full name exactly as it is shown on your passport.

Note:

  • Remember to check for signature requirements and sign when needed, either by hand or electronically. If forms are not signed in the correct places, and by the correct people, we will return your application without processing it.
  • Signatures may be required in more than one place or from more than one person on some forms.
  • Where a date is needed, make sure you fill it in.
  • A parent or legal guardian must sign on behalf of a dependent child under the age of 18 when a signature for this person is required.

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’ll fill out and submit the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) online. You don’t need to print and sign by hand. Please follow the instructions below to ensure the form is properly completed.

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

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

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


Application Details

Language preference

From the list, select your preferred language for:

  1. correspondence (any letters or emails we send you)
  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
Where do you plan to live in Canada?

If you plan to live in the Province of Quebec and haven’t received your Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ), enter the date when you applied for it. If you haven’t applied yet, you must do so before applying for permanent residence.


Personal Details

Family name

Family name is also known as last name or surname.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet (and you’re filling this form out on their behalf), enter your family name(s).


Given name

Given names are also known as first name and middle name. Do not use initials.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet (and you’re filling this form out on their behalf), enter your family name(s). For given name(s) enter “Child” or leave the given name field blank.


Physical characteristics - sex

If you choose “X” for gender, you need to complete the Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier [IRM 0002] (PDF, 1.34 MB) form and send it with your application if

  • your foreign travel document or passport does not have the “X” gender identifier (or an equivalent non-binary option)
  • you have or have had a Canadian temporary resident document with a different gender identifier, including a
    • visa
    • electronic travel authorization
    • work permit or
    • study permit

You don’t need any supporting documents.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select “U – Unknown”.


Physical characteristics - Eye colour

If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select “Other”.


Birth information - Date of birth

If you don’t know your complete date of birth, write 1901/01/01 in the fields fill in the spaces for the unknown year, month or day. Include a letter of explanation saying why you used this date.


Birth information - Place 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 whose details you don’t know yet, indicate “Unknown” for the city or town and select the country where you plan to adopt a child.


Citizenship(s)

If you aren’t a citizen of any country, choose “Stateless”.

If you are a citizen of more than one country, choose your other country of citizenship in the second field.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select the country where you intend to adopt a child.


Current country of residence

You must be in this country legally.

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


If you’ve lost your status
  • for “Status,” choose “Other
  • in the details field, enter “Out of status, requires restoration”
  • leave the “From” and “To” fields blank

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select the country where you plan to adopt a child and “Citizen” as the immigration status in that country.


Previous countries of residence

This means you lived in the country for 6 months total, not just in a row.

If you chose “Other” as a status, try to provide as much detail and an explanation as to why you are out of status.


Marital and relationship status

You’re single if you’ve never been married and are not in a common-law relationship.

You’re married if 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.

You’re common-law if you’ve lived continuously with your partner in a marital-type relationship for 1 year or more.

You’re divorced if you are officially separated and have legally ended your marriage.

You’re legally separated if you’re still legally married but no longer living with your spouse.

You’re widowed if your spouse has died and you have not re-married or entered into a common-law relationship.

An annulled marriage has been legally declared as not valid. An annulment can also be a declaration by the Catholic Church that the marriage was not binding.

  • Family name is also known as last name or surname.
  • Given names are also known as first name and middle name. Do not use initials.
  • If you’re in a common-law relationship, enter the date (year, month and day) you began living together.
  • If you’re legally separated or divorced, enter the date you were no longer living together.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select “Single”.


Contact Information

Current mailing address

  • Post office box (P.O. box) number: If you don’t enter a post office box, you must enter your street number
  • Street number (no.): The number on your house or apartment building. You must enter a street number if you didn’t enter a P.O. box

All correspondence will be mailed to this address unless you include your email address.

If you want a representative to do business with us 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.


Email address

Use this format: name@provider.net

By entering your email address, you authorize IRCC to transmit your file and personal information to this specific email.


Passport

Passport/travel document number (exactly as shown on your passport or travel document)

If you have more than one passport, choose the one you’ll use to travel to Canada.

Most people will need a passport to travel to Canada. If you’re approved to come here, you’ll need to get one.

A travel document is an identity document issued by a government or international organization (like the United Nations). It has a photo and personal information, and let the holder travel between countries. If you have a passport, you don’t need a travel document.

Issue/expiry dates

You can find this information on the page in your passport that shows your photo and date of birth (also called the biodata page)


National Identity Document

A national identity document is an identity card with a photo which is issued by a government or official authority, and can be used as identification inside the country that issued it. It may also be known as "ID," "ID card," "identity card," "citizen card" or "passport card."

Document number

Enter your national identity document number exactly as shown on the identity document. Make sure there is no space between each number or letter.


Education/Occupation Details

Highest level of education

  1. None: No education.
  2. Secondary or less: High school diploma obtained after elementary school and before college, university, or other formal training.
  3. Trade/apprenticeship certificate/diploma: Diploma completed in a specific trade, such as carpentry or auto mechanics.
  4. 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).
  5. Post-secondary – no degree: Post-secondary studies at a college or university but no degree earned.
  6. 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.
  7. Post graduate – no degree: Post-graduate studies at a college or university but no degree earned (Master or PhD).
  8. Master’s degree: Academic degree awarded by a graduate school of a college or university. You must have completed a Bachelor’s degree before you can earn a Master’s degree.
  9. 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 you can earn a PhD.

Current occupation

If you don’t work, enter “not employed”.

Intended occupation

If you aren’t planning to work in Canada (for example, if you’re retired), enter “None”.


Language Details

Native language/mother tongue

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, choose “Other”.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, choose the native language of the country where you plan to adopt a child.

Test from a designated language testing organization to assess English or French

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate if you have taken a test from a designated language testing organization to assess your proficiency in English or French.


Dependant’s Personal Details

Select the box to tell us if your dependant will accompany you to Canada.

If you answered “No,” explain why your dependant is non-accompanying.


Dependant’s relationship to the principal applicant

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

Dependant type

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.


Family name

Family name is also known as last name or surname.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet (and you’re filling this form out on their behalf), enter your family name(s).


Given name

Given names are also known as first name and middle name. Do not use initials.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet (and you’re filling this form out on their behalf), enter your family name(s). For given name(s) enter “Child” or leave the given name field blank.


Physical characteristics - sex

If you choose “X” for gender, you need to complete the Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier [IRM 0002] (PDF, 1.34 MB) form and send it with your application if

  • your foreign travel document or passport does not have the “X” gender identifier (or an equivalent non-binary option)
  • you have or have had a Canadian temporary resident document with a different gender identifier, including a
    • visa
    • electronic travel authorization
    • work permit or
    • study permit

You don’t need any supporting documents.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select “U – Unknown”.


Physical characteristics - Eye colour

If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select “Other”.


Birth information - Date of birth

If you don’t know your complete date of birth, enter 1901/01/01 to fill in the spaces for the unknown year, month or day. Include a letter of explanation.


Birth information - Place 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 whose details you don’t know yet, indicate “Unknown” for the city or town and select the country where you plan to adopt a child.


Citizenship(s)

If you aren’t a citizen of any country, choose “Stateless”.

If you are a citizen of more than one country, choose your other country of citizenship in the second field.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select the country where you intend to adopt a child.


Current country of residence

You must be in this country legally.

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


If you’ve lost your status
  • for “Status,” choose “Other
  • in the details field, enter “Out of status, requires restoration”
  • leave the “From” and “To” fields blank

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select the country where you plan to adopt a child and “Citizen” as the immigration status in that country.


Previous countries of residence

This means you lived in the country for 6 months total, not just in a row.

If you chose “Other” as a status, try to provide as much detail and an explanation as to why you are out of status.


Marital and relationship status

You’re single if you’ve never been married and are not in a common-law relationship.

You’re married if 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.

You’re common-law if you’ve lived continuously with your partner in a marital-type relationship for 1 year or more.

You’re divorced if you are officially separated and have legally ended your marriage.

You’re legally separated if you’re married but no longer living with your spouse.

You’re widowed if your spouse has died and you have not re-married or entered into a common-law relationship.

An annulled marriage has been legally declared as not valid. An annulment can also be a declaration by the Catholic Church that the marriage was not binding.

  • Family name is also known as last name or surname.
  • Given names are also known as first name and middle name. Do not use initials.
  • If you’re in a common-law relationship, enter the date (year, month and day) you began living together.
  • If you’re legally separated or divorced, enter the date you were no longer living together.

Note: If you are a parent of a child to be adopted in Canada whose details you don’t know yet, select “Single”.


Passport

Passport/travel document number (exactly as shown on your passport or travel document)

If you have more than one passport, choose the one you’ll use to travel to Canada.

Most people will need a passport to travel to Canada. If you’re approved to come here, you’ll need to get one.

A travel document is an identity document issued by a government or international organization (like the United Nations). It has a photo and personal information, and let the holder travel between countries. If you have a passport, you don’t need a travel document.

Issue/expiry dates

You can find this information on the page in your passport that shows your photo and date of birth (also called the biodata page)


National Identity Document

A national identity document is an identity card with a photo which is issued by a government or official authority, and can be used as identification inside the country that issued it. It may also be known as "ID," "ID card," "identity card," "citizen card" or "passport card."

Document number

Enter their national identity document number exactly as shown on the document. Make sure there is no space between each number or letter.


Education/Occupation Details

Highest level of education

  1. None: No education.
  2. Secondary or less: High school diploma obtained after elementary school and before college, university, or other formal training.
  3. Trade/apprenticeship certificate/diploma: Diploma completed in a specific trade, such as carpentry or auto mechanics.
  4. 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).
  5. Post-secondary – no degree: Post-secondary studies at a college or university but no degree earned.
  6. 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.
  7. Post graduate – no degree: Post-graduate studies at a college or university but no degree earned (Master or PhD).
  8. Master’s degree: Academic degree awarded by a graduate school of a college or university. You must have completed a Bachelor’s degree before you can earn a Master’s degree.
  9. 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 you can earn a PhD.

Current occupation

If your dependant doesn’t work, enter “not employed.”

Intended occupation

If your dependant isn’t planning to work in Canada (e.g., if they are younger than working age), enter “None”.


Language Details

Native language/mother tongue

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”.

Test from a designated language testing organization to assess English or French

Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate if you have taken a test from a designated language testing organization to assess your proficiency in English or French.


Consent and Declaration of Applicant

  1. Follow the instructions at the bottom of the online application to view the declaration.
  2. Read all of the statements in all sections carefully and:
    1. check the “Yes” or “No” buttons to show if you agree that the information in this application about your intended occupation, education and work experience may be shared with prospective employers to help them hire workers;
    2. type your name in the blue field.

By typing your name, you’re signing the application electronically. By doing so, you certify that you fully understand the questions asked, and the information you provided is complete, truthful, and correct. You can’t submit your application online unless you sign it.


Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)

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


Personal details

Family and given names

Family name is also known as last name or surname.

Given names are also known as first name and middle name. Do not use initials.

Enter your names exactly as they appear on your passport, travel document or identity document.


Questionnaire

If you answered “Yes” to one or more of these questions, you must enter an explanation in the details field.


Education

If you didn’t earn a diploma, leave the “Type of certificate or diploma issued” field blank.


Personal history

Important: do not leave any gaps in time.

If you don’t account for all time periods, it may delay the processing of your application.

Personal history - Activity

Examples of activity types

  • employment (please specify)
  • unemployed
  • educational activity

Personal history - Status in country or territory

Examples of status

  • work visa
  • citizen
  • study visa
  • visitor visa

Exception: If you have not worked in the past 10 years (for example, you’re retired), you must provide details of your personal history since the age of 18. The resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) that you provide with your application will help verify the information in this question.


Membership and association with organizations

Examples of organizations

  • political organizations
  • social organizations
  • youth or student organizations
  • trade unions
  • professional associations

Don’t use abbreviations.


Government positions

Examples of government positions

  • civil servant
  • judge
  • police officer
  • employee in a security organization

Don’t use abbreviations.


Military and paramilitary service

Important: do not leave any gaps in time.

If you don’t account for all time periods, it may delay the processing of your application.


Addresses

Write out addresses in full without using any abbreviations. Use the apartment or unit number, if this applies.

Example: 999 Family Street, Unit #3, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K3J 9T5


Authority to disclose personal information

Declaration of applicant

Read all of the statements in all sections carefully and type your full name into the blue field (this is your digital signature).

By signing, you certify that you fully understand the questions asked, and that the information you provided is complete, truthful, and correct.


Schedule 5: Economic Classes – Declaration of intent to reside in Quebec (IMM 0008 - Schedule 5)

Who needs to fill out this application form?

This form must be completed by:

  • You, as the principal applicant.
Question 1

Write your full last name (surname/family name) as it appears on your passport or on the official documents that you will use to obtain your passport.

Write all of your given names (first, second or more) as they appear on your passport or official documents. Do not use initials.

Question 2

Write your date of birth.

Declaration

Read the declaration carefully. Sign and date in the boxes provided. By signing, you declare that you and your family members intend to live in the province of Quebec and that you authorize the Government of Canada to share all necessary information with respect to your application for permanent residence in Canada, including the decision made on your application, with officials of the province of Quebec. If you do not sign and date, the application will be returned to you.


Schedule 6A: Business Immigrants - Self-Employed Persons (IMM 0008 - Schedule 6A)

Who needs to fill out this application form?

This form must be completed by:

  • you, as the principal applicant.
Question 1

Write your full last name (surname/family name) as it appears on your passport or on the official documents that you will use to obtain your passport.

Write all of your given names (first, second or more) as they appear on your passport or official documents. Do not use initials.

Question 2

Write your date of birth.

Question 3

Language

Check the appropriate box to indicate in which of Canada’s official languages, English or French, you are able to most comfortably express yourself.

Proceed by checking the box to indicate your second official language.

One of Canada’s objectives with respect to immigration is to support and assist the development of minority language communities in Canada. Your answer will help us to determine in which official language, you are most likely to request government services (for example in healthcare or education).

Question 4

Language (continued)

Unless you have taken an approved test or tests to assess your proficiency in English or French, you should not submit an application.

For this reason, your answer to this question should be “yes”. If you answer “no”, and you do not submit the results of the assessment of your official language proficiency, your application will be returned to you as incomplete.

For more information. See: “Ability in English and/or French” to help you determine your ability in English and French.

Question 5

Indicate the foreign currency and the exchange rate used in providing financial information.

Question 6A

Note: This section is to be completed by self-employed persons class applicants.

Your intended occupation in Canada

Please indicate the title of your intended occupation in Canada

Question 6B

Note: This section is to be completed by self-employed persons class applicants.

National Occupation Classification number (NOC)

Please indicate the number of your National Occupation Classification (NOC). For more information and to find this number please visit: Find your job title, code and skill type. Find your four digit NOC number and enter it on section 6.1 of the Schedule 6A form.

Question 7

Note: This section is to be completed by self-employed persons class applicants.

Study in Canada

If applicable, check the box to indicate whether you or your accompanying spouse or common-law partner, have completed a program of full-time study (of at least two years) at a post-secondary institution in Canada in the past.

Question 8

Note: This section is to be completed by self-employed persons class applicants.

Work in Canada

If applicable, check the box to indicate whether you or your accompanying spouse or common-law partner, have worked full-time in Canada in the past.

Note: Provide evidence that you have worked in full-time in Canada.

Question 9

Note: This section is to be completed by self-employed persons class applicants.

Check the box to indicate whether you or your accompanying spouse or common-law partner, have a relative living in Canada who is a citizen or permanent resident of Canada. If Yes, check the appropriate box to indicate the relationship to you or your spouse or common-law partner.

Question 10

Note: This section is to be completed by self-employed persons class applicants.

Intended occupation

Describe in writing the occupation in which you intend to be self-employed. Provide details of the location and your anticipated investment (if applicable).

Section 11: Personal net worth statement / Assets


Important information

You must disclose all assets and liabilities belonging to you and your spouse or common-law partner.

Question 11A

Bank deposits

  • Current and Savings Accounts
    • foreign exchange rate
    • the annual sales
    • the net income (after tax)
  • Fixed (term) deposits
    • date of initial deposit,
    • maturity date, and
    • current balance in foreign currency (specify currency) and in Canadian dollars.
Question 11B

Real Property

Provide a description of the following and include the quantity as well as the estimated current market value in foreign currency (specify currency) and in Canadian dollars.

Note: Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

Question 11C

Publicly traded stocks and other investments

Provide a description of the following and include the quantity as well as the estimated current market value in foreign currency (specify currency) and in Canadian dollars.

Note: Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

Question 11D

Business

Include the:

  • name of your business,
  • percentage owned,
  • current book value (net assets), and
  • estimated current market value in foreign currency (specify currency) and in Canadian dollars.

Note: Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

Question 11E

Note: Pensions and other assets

Provide a description of your pensions and other assets as well as the amount in foreign currency (specify currency) and in Canadian dollars.

Provide a description of the following and include the date it was paid as well as the total amount in Canadian dollars that is currently invested, if applicable.

Note: Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

Personal net worth statement / Liabilities

Question 11F

Real property mortgages

Indicate the complete address and the current balance in foreign currency (specify currency) and in Canadian dollars.

Note: Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

Question 11G

Other personal debts

Provide details on the nature of the debt and include the amount in foreign currency (specify currency) and in Canadian dollars.

Note: Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.

Question 11H

Net worth

  1. Add the total assets from sections 11A through 11E
  2. Subtract the total liabilities (11F+11G)
  3. Include the total net worth in Canadian dollars
Question 11I

Write the total amount of funds in Canadian dollars available for your settlement in Canada.

Question 11J

Accumulation of Funds

Provide a document bearing your signature and description on how you accumulated your present financial resources, both family and business.

Note: Consult the examples in Schedule 6A


Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)

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

Include:

  • 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 don’t apply to you, enter “Not Applicable”.

Section C

Write personal details about your:

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

Read all of the statements in all sections carefully.

By clicking the “Complete and return to application” button, you certify that

  • you fully understand the questions asked and
  • the information you provided is complete, truthful, and correct

Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (IMM 5409)

Who must complete this form?

This form must be completed and signed with handwritten signatures.

Submitting an application to sponsor a family member

  • If the sponsor's common-law partner is a co-signer on the application to sponsor
    • the sponsor and their common-law partner must complete this form.
  • If the person being sponsored (the principal applicant) has a common-law partner
    • the person being sponsored and their common-law partner must complete this form.
Question 1

Write the following information in the space provided:

  • Country of current residence
  • Province/state/territory of current residence
  • Name of the declarant (as shown on passport/travel document)
  • Name of the declarant’s partner (as shown on passport/travel document)
  • Name of city, town, village
  • Name of county (if applicable)
  • Name of province/state/territory
  • Name of the country
  • Number of continuous year(s) in a conjugal relationship
  • Date of the relationship (from-to)
Question 1A

Check the box to indicate if you have jointly signed a residential lease, mortgage or purchase agreement relating to a residence in which you both live.

Question 1B

Check the box to indicate if you jointly own property other than your residence.

Question 1C

Check the box to indicate if you have a joint bank, trust credit union or charge card accounts.

Question 1D

Check the box to indicate if you have declared your common-law union under the Canadian Income Tax Act (T-1 “General individual income Tax Return”).

Question 2

Check the box to indicate if you have life insurance on yourself which names your common-law partner as a beneficiary.

Question 3

Check the box to indicate if your common-law partner has life insurance on themselves which names you as a beneficiary.

Question 4

If you answered “no” to questions 1 to 3, indicate other documentary evidence you have that would indicate your relationship as common-law partners.

Question 5

solemn declaration
Write the following information in the space provided:

  • Name of the declarant (as shown on passport/travel document)
  • Name of the declarant’s partner (as shown on passport/travel document)
  • Name of the city, town, village
  • Name of the county
  • Name of the province/state/territory
  • Name of the country
  • Date (day, month, year)
  • Signature of the declarant
  • Signature of the declarant’s partner
  • Name of the person who administered the declaration
  • Select the person’s title from the choices provided
  • Signature of the person who administered the declaration

Note: Once you have filled out the form, click on the “Validate” button located at the top 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 ($1,625) and right of permanent residence fee ($515)
2,140
Your application (without right of permanent residence fee) 1,625
Include your spouse or partner
Processing fee ($850) and right of permanent residence fee ($515)
1,365
Include your spouse or partner (without right of permanent residence fee) 850
Include a dependent child 230

For applicants who started an immigration process before August 1st, 2014, see the Definition of Dependent Children Before August 1st, 2014.

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 member, 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

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.


How to pay the fees for your application

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

  • a valid email address;
  • a credit card, Debit MasterCard® or Visa® Debit card.

Follow these instructions to pay your fees online.

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

  • At the end, click on the “Save” button to save a PDF copy of the IRCC official receipt.
  • Upload a copy of this receipt to your online application when asked.

Additional fees

You must also pay for the following for yourself and your family members (if applicable):

  • medical examinations
  • police certificates
  • language assessments

Step 4. Submit the Application

Now that you’ve prepared your application, you can submit it for processing. To help make sure the application can be processed as quickly as possible:

  • answer all questions
  • electronically sign your application (type your full name exactly as shown on your passport)
  • include your processing fee receipt
  • upload all the supporting documents, including the invitation to apply letter with your confirmation number

Submit the document checklist

Make sure you complete the Document Checklist (IMM 5784) included in this guide and include it with your application.


What Happens Next?

The application process

Submission

Completion check: Once you have submitted your application, we will check to determine that all required application forms have been properly completed and submitted, the application processing fee has been paid, and that all requested supporting documentation has been provided.

If your application package does not meet these requirements, we will return it to you. No file will be created or record kept until a complete application has been submitted.

Acknowledgment of receipt: If your application is complete, we will begin to process it. You will be sent a letter that:

  • notifies you of this fact and provides you with your visa office file number,
  • sets out some basic instructions for contact with the visa office,
  • gives you a brief outline of future processing steps.

Processing

Review for decision

Your application will undergo a detailed review by a Visa Officer. The Officer will consider all the information and documentation you have provided, and will assess it against current selection standards.


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.

Permanent resident status

If your application is successful, you and your family members will receive permanent resident visas.  You will become permanent residents of Canada when you move to Canada within the validity of your visa(s). Some conditions will apply:

  • You will remain a permanent resident until you become a Canadian citizen, as long as you spend at least two years of each five-year period in Canada.
  • You may leave and re-enter Canada as often as you wish.

Rights

As permanent residents, you and your family members will have the right to:

  • live, study and work in Canada for as long as you remain permanent residents,
  • access most social benefits accorded to Canadian citizens (see “Limitations”),
  • apply for Canadian citizenship, and if granted, apply for a Canadian passport once you have a physical presence for four years (1,460 days) out of the six years.

Limitations

There are a few limitations on permanent residents:

  • You cannot vote in certain elections.
  • You may be ineligible for certain jobs requiring high-level security clearances.
  • If you or any of your family members commit a serious crime, you or your family members may be stripped of permanent resident status and deported from Canada.

Obligations

As permanent residents, you will also have the same legal obligations as Canadians, such as paying taxes and respecting all federal, provincial, and municipal laws.


The Permanent Resident Card

All new permanent residents will be issued a card as part of the process. Cards will be mailed to your home address soon after you become a permanent resident. For more information on the Permanent Resident Card, go to the Application for a Permanent Resident Card page.



For more information

Current processing times

You can check current processing times on the Application processing times webpage.



Important information

Updating your contact information

During the application process, you must advise us of any change of address or telephone number by visiting Change My Address online. 

Note: If your personal situation changes (for example change of marital status, birth of a child, etc.) after you have submitted your application, you must notify us in writing.


In Canada and the United States

You may also Contact Us or go online to see the current status of your application:

  1. Click on Check application status, and
  2. Follow the instructions provided.

For details about how to remove your application status information from the Internet, visit the “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQ) section.

If you are outside Canada and the United States:

Contact the Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate responsible for your region.


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.



Online services

For more information about the programs offered by IRCC, visit Immigration and Citizenship.


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

  • 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).

Applying online

  • You need one (1) photo.
  • Follow the instructions in the online application to scan and upload both sides of your photo to your application.

Notes to the photographer

The photo 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 and not be altered.
Image described below

The back of the 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.


Appendix B
Provincial and Territorial Government Contacts

The list can also be found on the Apply to immigrate to Canada page.


Alberta

Business Immigration Program
Alberta Economic Development
4th Floor, Commerce Place
10155-102 Street
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T5J 4L6
Tel.: (780) 427-6419
Fax: (780) 422-9127
Web: www.alberta-canada.com/immigration


British Columbia

Suite 730, World Trade Centre
999 Canada Place
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6C 3E1
Tel.: (604) 775-2227
Fax: (604) 660-4092
Web: www.welcomebc.ca


Manitoba

9th Floor, 213 Notre-Dame Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3B 1N3
Tel.: 1-800-665-8332
Fax: (204) 948-2256
Web: http://www.immigratemanitoba.com/

New Brunswick

Business New Brunswick
P.O. Box 6000
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Canada E3B 5H1
Tel.: (506) 453-3981
Fax: (506) 444-4277
Web: http://www.welcomenb.ca/content/wel-bien/en/immigrating_and_settling.html


Newfoundland and Labrador

Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
P.O. Box 8700, Confederation Building
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
A1B 4J6
Tel.: (709) 729-7000
Fax: (709) 729-0654
Web: www.intrd.gov.nl.ca/intrd


Northwest Territories

P.O. Box 1320
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
Canada X1A 2L9
Tel.: (867) 920-8969
Fax: (867) 873-0101
Web: www.gov.nt.ca


Nova Scotia

Office of Immigration
P.O. Box 1535
1741 Brunswick Street, Suite 110A
Halifax, Nova Scotia
B3J 2Y3
Tel.: (902) 424-5230
Fax: (902) 424-7936
Web: www.novascotiaimmigration.com


Nunavut

Economic Development and Innovation Division
Department of Economic Development and Transportation
Government of Nunavut
P.O. Box 612
Pangnirtung, Nunavut
X0A 0R0
Fax: (867) 473-2663
Web: www.gov.nu.ca


Ontario

6th floor, 400 University Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 2R9
Tel.: 1-800-267-7329
Web: http://www.citizenship.gov.on.ca/english/index.shtml


Prince Edward Island

Island Information Service
P.O. Box 2000
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
C1A 7N8
Tel.: (902) 368-4000
Web: www.gov.pe.ca/immigration


Quebec


Saskatchewan

Government Relations
Immigration
2nd Floor, 1919 Saskatchewan Drive
Regina, Saskatchewan
S4P 3V7
Tel.: 1-866-727-5427
Web: www.gov.sk.ca


Yukon

Box 2703
Whitehorse, Yukon
Y1A 2C6
Web: www.gov.yk.ca

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