A Route for Individuals Facing Exceptional Circumstances Even if you don’t meet the usual requirements for permanent residency in Canada, you may still qualify under humanitarian and compassionate grounds. This pathway is designed for those with exceptional situations, with each application carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis by IRCC.
Who Can Apply Under Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Grounds?
You may apply for permanent residence from within Canada on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds if you meet the following conditions:
When You Are Not Eligible to Apply
You cannot apply under H&C grounds if you are eligible to apply under any of the following categories within the last five years:
Important Notes
Exemptions
To request an exemption from the standard requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), you must:
Key Factors Assessed by IRCC
Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) applications are designed for individuals facing exceptional circumstances. Each application is evaluated on its own merits by IRCC. When reviewing an application, IRCC may consider factors such as:
Additional factors that may be taken into account include, but are not limited to:
Inadmissibility
If you or any accompanying family member may be inadmissible to Canada, it is strongly advised to resolve this issue before submitting a permanent residence application. For example, individuals found inadmissible due to a criminal conviction may be eligible to apply for criminal rehabilitation or a record suspension.
Common grounds for inadmissibility include, but are not limited to:
How to Apply
Step 01: Prepare Your Documents
Begin by gathering all required documents using the Document Checklist (IMM 5280). You must submit proof to support every statement made in your application. You may also include additional documents that explain humanitarian considerations, hardship, the best interests of a child, or any other relevant factors you want IRCC to consider.
All documents must be in English or French. If a document is issued in another language, it must be translated by a certified translator. If the translation is not completed by a certified translator, an affidavit from the translator must be provided.
Police Certificates Applicants and accompanying family members aged 18 or older who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents must submit a valid police certificate for each country (excluding Canada) where they have lived for six consecutive months or more since turning 18.
Medical Examination You and your accompanying family members must complete an Immigration Medical Exam (IME). To be eligible for permanent residence, applicants must not have a medical condition that:
Step 02: Complete the Application
Submit the following forms online, ensuring all sections are fully completed:
Important:
Complete every section. If a question does not apply, write “Not Applicable” or “NA.” Incomplete applications may be returned, resulting in processing delays.
Make sure to include the required processing fees with your application. To avoid delays, it is recommended to pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF – $575) upfront.
Step 03: Pay the Required Fees
Submit the following forms online, ensuring all sections are fully completed:
| Application (per person) | $CAD |
|---|---|
| Application processing fee + Right of Permanent Residence Fee: | $1,210 CAD |
| Application processing fee only (without RPRF): | $635 CAD |
| Spouse or partner (processing + RPRF): | $1,210 CAD |
| Spouse or partner (processing only): | $635 CAD |
| Dependent child: | $175 CAD |
| Biometrics Fees | $CAD |
|---|---|
| Biometrics (per person): | $85 CAD |
| Biometrics (family of 2 or more applying together): | $170 CAD (maximum) |
Note: Applications submitted with missing or insufficient fees will be returned and will not be processed. To pay your fees, you will need:
Step 04: Submit Your Application
To ensure faster processing:
Reminder: You must upload the Document Checklist (IMM 5280) along with your application forms and supporting documents.
After You Apply
Once your application is submitted, IRCC may contact you as follows:
If your application is complete: Your application will move forward for processing.
If your application is incomplete: It will be returned to you for correction.
If your application is approved: IRCC will notify you in writing and provide instructions for the next steps to obtain permanent residence.
If your application is refused: You will receive written notification from IRCC.
If fees are missing or insufficient: Your application will not be processed and will be returned with further instructions.
