How to apply

Follow these steps to apply for permanent residence under this public policy.

On this page:

  1. Make sure you’re eligible
  2. Apply online using the permanent residence portal
  3. Pay your fees online
  4. Submit your application
  1. Make sure you’re eligible

    To be eligible for permanent residence under this public policy, you must apply from within Canada. Make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements before you apply.

  2. Apply online using the permanent residence portal

    Apply through the PR portal

    If you can’t apply online and need accommodations

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

    Refer to the Instruction Guide [IMM 5067] for important information about your eligibility, fees and how to apply.

    Fill out your forms

    Forms you’ll fill out in the portal

    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]

    PDF forms you’ll upload

    You must fill out and upload these PDF forms to your online application. You don’t need to sign them.

    As the principal applicant, you’ll electronically sign for the entire application in the portal, including for your family members.

    Upload your photos

    You need 1 photo for each person on your application.

    Follow the instructions in the online application to scan and upload both sides of your photo.

    If you want to use an immigration representative

    If you’re a representative, find out how you can create an account and submit applications on behalf of your clients.

    If you want to appoint someone to do business with us on your behalf, 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

    An immigration representative (an immigration consultant or lawyer) can give you advice and help you with your application for a fee. But they can’t

    • open a portal account on your behalf
    • electronically sign the application for you
    • sign into the portal using your username and password

    A representative can fill out forms and communicate with us on your behalf through their own account. They can also

    • help you prepare the documents you need to upload
    • answer questions about the forms

    After you read the declaration, you must be the one who types your name. This is the legal requirement for your application to be considered “signed,” according to Canada’s immigration law.

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

    If you’re having technical issues

    If you need to upload a number of images, find out how to combine them into 1 document.

    If you’re having technical issues applying, contact us using the web form. (opens in a new tab)

    1. Select your problem.
    2. Under Tell us about yourself:
      • If you don’t have a unique client identifier number, enter 1111111111.
      • If you haven’t submitted an application yet, and don’t have an application number, enter 0000000.
    3. Under Tell us about your technical issue:
      • Specify the program you’re trying to apply under.
      • Explain any problems that you’re having.
      • Upload screenshots from your account that show us both
        • the page and fields where you’re having problems, and
        • any error messages you’re getting.
  3. Pay your fees online

    Find out how to pay your fees.

    Biometrics fee

    In most cases, you must pay a biometrics fee when you submit your application. Otherwise, you may experience delays. The biometrics fee covers the cost of collecting fingerprints and a digital photo.

    After you pay the biometrics fee with a complete application, we’ll send you a letter confirming that you need to give your biometrics and where you can go. You must show this letter when you give your biometrics.

    You must give your biometrics in person. Make sure to book an appointment if this service is offered. Find a collection point close to you.

  4. Submit your application

    Before you submit your application, make sure you

    • 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

    If your application is incomplete, we’ll reject it. You’ll have to fix any errors and then re-submit it.

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