How to apply

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 IRCC 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 the same
• 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 IRCC on your behalf through their own account. They can also

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

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

If you (or your representative) can’t apply online and need 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), and
   • the application package you want
3. In the body of your email, include
   • your full name as shown on your passport
   • the full name of your anchor person in Canada
   • 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 will save you the time it would take to mail it.
     • 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 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

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

If you’re having technical issues applying, contact us using the web form.

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.

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