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 you are being sponsored by a family member) or representative can’t apply online and require accommodations, including for a disability, you may ask for an alternate 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)
    • 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
    • whether 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 (in Canada only) 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 alternate 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

Use a courier to submit your paper application

Due to the labour disruption at Canada Post, you need to use another courier to send us your application. Use one that offers tracking so you have proof your application was delivered.

Find out how to check if your application has been received.

For more information about applying with an alternate format, call 1-888-242-2100 (from within 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, refer to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations or the Citizenship ActCitizenship Regulations and Citizenship Regulations No. 2, as applicable.

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 in the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal for the principal applicant and each of their dependants. Incomplete applications will be returned.

The forms include 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

  • submit a Use of a Representative [IMM 5476] (opens in a new tab) form
  • sign it digitally or by hand and get your immigration representative to do so also
  • upload it with your application

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] (opens in a new tab) .

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.

Important 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)

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.

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 ($575) now to avoid delays. You will have to pay it before you become a permanent resident.

Application (per person) $CAN
Your application
Processing fee ($1,810) and right of permanent residence fee ($575)
2,385
Your application (without right of permanent residence fee) 1,810
Include your spouse or partner
Processing fee ($950) and right of permanent residence fee ($575)
1,525
Include your spouse or partner (without right of permanent residence fee) 950
Include a dependent child 260

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 $575:

  • 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 twelve (12) months).

Applying online

  • Upload 1 photo taken within 12 months of the date you apply and include images of the front and back of the photo.
  • For digital photos, the information required for the back of one photograph can be provided as one separate document with a confirmation from the photo studio (e.g. receipt). This document should be uploaded in the Portal section titled “Additional Supporting Documents - Other”.

Additional details for digital photos:

The photograph must be:

  • in JPEG or PNG format;
  • measurements must be between 715x1000 and 2000x2800 pixels;
  • file size must 4 MB or less;
  • a scanned photo (don’t take a picture of a paper photo with your digital camera or phone).

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 centered 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.

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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2025-09-29