To apply for Canadian permanent residency, you must submit key documents including proof of identity such as a valid passport, language test results demonstrating proficiency in English or French, and educational credential assessments verifying your academic qualifications. Applicants generally need to provide police clearance certificates to prove good character, medical examination results to confirm health status, and proof of funds to show financial stability. Supporting documents like job offer letters, work experience records, and marriage certificates may also be required depending on the specific immigration program.
What Documents Must You Submit for a Canadian Permanent Residency Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | eAPR (Electronic Application for Permanent Residence) | Submitting a Canadian Permanent Residency application via eAPR requires essential documents including a valid passport, proof of language proficiency (IELTS or CELPIP), educational credential assessments (ECA), police clearance certificates, medical examination results, and proof of funds. Electronic Application for Permanent Residence streamlines document uploads, ensuring timely verification by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to facilitate processing of skilled worker, family sponsorship, or provincial nominee programs. |
| 2 | GCMS Notes (Global Case Management System Notes) | GCMS Notes, or Global Case Management System Notes, provide detailed records of a Canadian permanent residency application, including officer comments, background checks, and application progress. Requesting GCMS Notes helps applicants understand application status, identify missing documents, and prepare for interviews or appeals. |
| 3 | Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) | Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) is a mandatory document in the Canadian permanent residency application process, providing detailed instructions for applicants to submit their biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs. Failure to submit the BIL promptly can delay application processing, as biometrics are required for identity verification and security screening by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). |
| 4 | Proof of Upfront Medical Exam | Proof of Upfront Medical Exam is a mandatory document for Canadian permanent residency applications, demonstrating that the applicant has undergone a medical examination by a panel physician approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This medical exam ensures that the applicant does not pose a health risk to Canadian public health or safety and includes assessments such as chest X-rays, blood tests, and physical evaluations. |
| 5 | Education Credential Assessment (ECA) Report | The Education Credential Assessment (ECA) report is a crucial document verifying that your foreign educational credentials are equivalent to Canadian standards, required for most economic immigration programs to Canada. Obtaining an ECA from designated organizations such as WES or ICAS ensures that your qualifications are recognized and supports your eligibility for permanent residency. |
| 6 | Proof of Settlement Funds Letter | The Proof of Settlement Funds Letter is a critical document required for Canadian Permanent Residency applications, demonstrating the applicant's financial capacity to support themselves and their dependents upon arrival. This letter must be issued by a recognized financial institution, detailing liquid funds available and ensuring compliance with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regulations. |
| 7 | Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Specific to Virtual Jurisdictions | Applicants for Canadian Permanent Residency from virtual jurisdictions must submit a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) issued by the relevant online or digital authority recognized by the respective country's law enforcement. These PCCs serve as crucial evidence of good conduct, verifying the applicant has no criminal record within digital or virtual jurisdictions, and must comply with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements. |
| 8 | Country-Specific Travel History Declarations | Country-specific travel history declarations require applicants to provide detailed records of their international travel, including dates, destinations, and durations, covering all countries visited within the past 10 years or more as specified by Canadian immigration authorities. These documents are critical for verifying eligibility, assessing security risks, and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations when applying for Canadian permanent residency. |
| 9 | Schedule A: Background/Declaration (IMM 5669E Updated Version) | Schedule A: Background/Declaration (IMM 5669E Updated Version) requires applicants for Canadian Permanent Residency to submit detailed personal history, including employment, education, and residential addresses for the past ten years, along with information on family members and any criminal offenses. Accurate and complete disclosure on this form is essential for security screening and background verification by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). |
| 10 | Digital Photo Specifications for PR Cards | Canadian Permanent Residency applications require digital photos adhering to strict specifications: images must be recent, 35mm wide by 45mm high, with a neutral facial expression and no shadows or reflections. The photo background should be plain white or light-colored, and digital images must be high-resolution, correctly exposed, and unaltered to meet IRCC standards. |
Comprehensive Checklist of Required Documents for Canadian PR
Applying for Canadian Permanent Residency requires a comprehensive set of documents to ensure eligibility and processing efficiency. Key documents include a valid passport, proof of language proficiency (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French), educational credential assessments (ECA), and police clearance certificates. Additionally, applicants must submit medical examination results, proof of funds, digital photographs, and completed application forms specific to their immigration program.
Proof of Identity: Essential Identification Papers
Proof of identity is a critical component of a Canadian permanent residency application. Essential identification papers include valid passports, birth certificates, and national identity cards.
These documents verify your personal details and citizenship status. Providing clear and accurate copies ensures your application process proceeds smoothly without delays.
Valid Passports and Travel Documents
Valid passports and travel documents are essential for a Canadian permanent residency application. These documents prove your identity and citizenship, ensuring eligibility for processing. Submit current and unexpired passports or travel documents from all countries you have citizenship in to avoid delays.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Documentation
| Document Type | Purpose | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Report | Verifies the authenticity and equivalency of foreign educational qualifications against Canadian standards | The ECA must be issued by an approved organization recognized by the Government of Canada. Common designated bodies include World Education Services (WES), International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS), and Comparative Education Service (CES). Submit the original report or an electronic copy directly from the assessing agency. The assessment should not be older than 5 years at the time of application submission. |
Language Proficiency Test Results
Language proficiency test results are a crucial part of a Canadian permanent residency application. These documents verify your ability to communicate effectively in English or French, which is essential for settlement and employment in Canada.
- Accepted Tests - Results from approved tests such as IELTS, CELPIP for English, or TEF for French must be submitted.
- Minimum Scores - Applicants must meet or exceed the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level requirements specified for their immigration program.
- Validity Period - Language test results must be recent, typically no older than two years at the time of application submission.
Work Experience Letters and Reference Proofs
Work experience letters are crucial documents in a Canadian permanent residency application, serving as proof of your professional background. These letters must be detailed, on company letterhead, and include job titles, responsibilities, and employment dates.
Reference proofs complement work experience letters by validating your employment claims through third-party verification. Such proofs may include contracts, pay stubs, or tax documents that confirm your job tenure and duties.
Police Clearance Certificates and Security Checks
What documents must you submit for a Canadian permanent residency application related to security? Police clearance certificates are essential to demonstrate your clean criminal record. These certificates must be obtained from every country where you have lived for six months or more since turning 18.
Why are security checks important for your application? Security checks verify your background to ensure you pose no risk to Canada. The authorities will conduct thorough screening based on the police certificates and other provided information.
Medical Examination Reports
Medical examination reports are essential for a Canadian permanent residency application to ensure public health and safety. Required reports must be completed by panel physicians approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Approved Panel Physicians - Medical exams must be conducted by IRCC-designated panel physicians to be accepted.
- Comprehensive Health Assessment - Exams include physical, chest x-rays, and laboratory tests to detect communicable diseases and overall health status.
- Validity Period - Medical reports are typically valid for 12 months from the examination date, aligning with application processing timelines.
Proof of Funds for Settlement in Canada
Proof of funds is a crucial document when applying for Canadian Permanent Residency under economic immigration programs. It demonstrates that you have sufficient money to support yourself and your family after arriving in Canada.
Applicants must provide official bank statements or letters from financial institutions verifying available funds. The amount required varies depending on the number of family members included in the application. This proof ensures that new immigrants can cover living expenses without immediate reliance on social assistance.
What Documents Must You Submit for a Canadian Permanent Residency Application? Infographic
