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Canada Immigration

Express Entry

• Can I have more than one Express Entry profile?

  No. You may only have one profile at a time. This is set out in Canada’s immigration law.
  Creating more than one profile will not give you a better chance at being invited or allow you to be invited under a different program.

• Do I need an Educational Credential Assessment to apply under Express Entry?

  To get points for your education under the Comprehensive Ranking System, you must either:

  • have been educated in Canada, or
  • have a valid Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for immigration purposes for your completed foreign education.

• The online tool said I was eligible for Express Entry, but my completed profile says I’m not. Which one is right?

  The online tool asks general questions to see if you may be eligible for one of the programs under Express Entry.
  The Express Entry profile asks more specific and detailed questions about your qualifications. It is possible that after you gave more detailed information in your Express Entry profile that you are, in fact, not eligible.
  Only a complete Express Entry profile can be used to fully assess if you are eligible.

• What kind of language test can I use for Express Entry?

  We only accept these tests for Express Entry:
  For English

  • CELPIP: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program – CELPIP-General
  • IELTS: International English Language Testing System – General Training

  For French

  • TEF Canada: Test d’évaluation de français
  • TCF Canada : Test de connaissance du français

• How do I withdraw my Express Entry profile?

  To withdraw your profile:

  • On the main page of your account, go to the section “View the applications you submitted”
  • Click on the orange “Withdraw profile” button
  • Under the heading “What would you like to do today?” below the “Warning!” text, click on the orange “Continue” button.

• How do I confirm that my Express Entry profile is complete?

  To confirm that you profile is complete:

  • Go to the “Express Entry profile” page
  • Click the “Continue form” button for the section with the status “in progress”
  • Verify that all circles to the right have a green check mark in them.

  If one section displays a progress bar instead of a green check mark, open the section and complete the missing information.

  • Click the “save and exit” button to save your changes and return to the “Express Entry profile” page.

• In an Express Entry profile, should I only include the minimum work experience needed to qualify for one of the programs, or should I include more?

  To qualify for the broadest range of programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, you should include work experience for the last 10 years. We also need this information for an application for permanent residence, no matter which program you are applying under.

• How do I get education points for Express Entry if I have 2 or more degrees or diplomas?

  To get full points for having more than 1 credential:

  • at least 1 of the credentials must be for a program of 3 or more years in length
  • you need a valid educational credential assessment (ECA) for each credential

  Note: The order that you complete your credentials in does not affect points.
  Fill in all fields in the Education history section in your profile. When you’re done, click Save and add. After you do:

  • the details you entered about your study period will be saved to the table below the Save and add button
  • the fields will go blank and you can add another study period
  • make sure to add all study periods you want us to assess for points
    • Each educational credential needs its own row in the Education history table.

• Can I be eligible for more than one program under Express Entry?

  Yes. Depending on the information in your profile, you may be eligible for more than one program through Express Entry.
  In that case, you will be invited to apply for one program based on this order:

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC),
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), then
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

  For example:

  • If you met the criteria for all three programs, the system would send you an invitation to apply for the CEC.
  • If you met the criteria for CEC and FSWP, you would also get an invitation to apply under the CEC.
  • If you met the criteria for FSWP and FSTP, you would get an invitation to apply under FSWP.

  You can’t choose which program you are invited to apply for. The system will sort profiles based on the information you enter.
  If you decline the invitation, the system will not re-invite you under the next program. You will go back in the pool, and if we invite you again, the same order will apply.

• Do I need a job offer to get into the Express Entry pool?

  No, in most cases you don’t need a job offer.
  But, you will need one if you:

  • are eligible for either the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and
  • do not have enough money to support yourself and your family in Canada.

  Even if you don’t need one, you may want to try and find a valid job offer. It will give you a much higher point score, and so a better chance of being invited to apply.

Work Permit

• What do I need to work in Canada?

  It depends on:

  • the job you want to do
  • the program you want to apply for
  • whether or not your job requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

  In most cases, you will need one or more of the following documents to apply for a work permit:

  • an LMIA number from your employer if your job needs an LMIA
  • proof that your employer has submitted an offer of employment through the Employer Portal
  • an employment contract or letter (if your employer is exempt from the employer compliance process)
  • proof that you are certified, accredited or qualified to work in the job you want

  In some cases, you might be exempt from an LMIA:

  • Mobilité Francophone allows Canadian employers hire French-speaking and bilingual workers from abroad, to work outside of Quebec in managerial, professional, and technical and skilled trades occupations.
  • If you are between 18 and 35 years old, you can have a temporary work permit under the International Experience Canada.
  • Other LMIA exempt work permits

• What is a Labour Market Impact Assessment?

  A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker.
  A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job. It will also show that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job. A positive LMIA is sometimes called a confirmation letter.
  If the employer needs an LMIA, they must apply for one.
  Once an employer gets the LMIA, the worker can apply for a work permit.
  To apply for a work permit, a worker needs:

  • a job offer letter,
  • a contract,
  • a copy of the LMIA, and
  • the LMIA number.

• I have received a Canadian job offer. What documents do I need from my future employer?

  In most cases, the employer must send you:

  • the job offer and a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) number or
  • the offer of employment number.

  Once you have one of these numbers, you can apply to get, extend or modify a work permit.
  If the employer is LMIA-exempt, find out how to get a work permit for these jobs.
  If you apply for an open work permit, you don’t need to provide any documents from an employer.

• Does my work permit allow me to work for any employer in Canada?

  It depends on the work permit you have. Most work permits are tied to a specific employer. They will only allow you to work for the employer on the permit.
  In some situations, you can get an open work permit, which does not include a specific employer. An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada unless the employer:

  • is listed as ineligible on the list of employers who failed to comply with the conditions, or
  • offers, on a regular basis, striptease, erotic dance, escort services or erotic massages.

• Where do I find out if the employer who offered me a job is an eligible employer?

  Check the list of employers who failed to comply with the conditions. This list shows employers who may be ineligible to hire a temporary worker through either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program. If you apply for a work permit to work for an employer listed as “ineligible”, your application will be refused.

• How long can I work in Canada as a temporary worker?

  There is no set maximum amount of time you can work in Canada as a temporary worker. The length of time you can work depends on:

  • the job offer from your employer
  • the length of time listed on your Labour Market Impact Assessment, if your employer needed to get one to hire you
  • how long your passport is valid for

  If you will be working in Quebec as a temporary worker, you may need to get a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ). The CAQ will show the length of time you are allowed to work in Quebec. If you are exempt from the LMIA process, you don’t need to get a CAQ.

• How do I apply for a work permit?

  Normally, you must apply for a work permit before you enter the country. In some cases, foreign nationals can apply at the border.
  Due to COVID-19, we’re temporarily allowing visitors to apply online for a work permit from inside Canada.

• Are there any conditions on my work permit?

  Some conditions will be written directly on your work permit.
  These may include:

  • the type of work you can do,
  • the employer you can work for,
  • where you can work, or
  • how long you can work.

  Regulation 185 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations lists all the conditions that may be put on your work permit.
  There are also standard conditions that apply to all work permit holders. Even if you have no specific conditions on your work permit, you still must:

  • not work for an employer in a business where there are reasonable grounds to suspect a risk of sexual exploitation of some workers, specifically:
    • strip clubs,
    • massage parlours, and
    • escort agencies,
  •  leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.

• What is an open work permit?

  An open work permit is a work permit that is not job-specific. Because it is not job-specific, you will not need the following when you apply for your work permit:

  • a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada; or
  • proof that an employer has submitted an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and paid the employer compliance fee.

  In most cases, you will have to pay the open work permit holder fee at the same time that you pay the work permit fee. Check the fee list for the most up-to-date application fees.

• Who can apply for an open work permit?

  You may be eligible for an open work permit if you:

  • are an international student who graduated from a designated learning institution and are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program
  • are a student who’s no longer able to meet the costs of your studies (destitute student)
  • have an employer-specific work permit and are being abused or at risk of being abused in relation to your job in Canada
  • applied for permanent residence in Canada
  • are a dependent family member of someone who applied for permanent residence
  • are the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or international student
  • are the spouse or common-law partner of an applicant of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
  • are a refugee, refugee claimant, protected person or their family member
  • are under an unenforceable removal order
  • are a temporary resident permit holder
  • are a young worker participating in special programs

  In each of these situations, you must meet additional criteria to be eligible.

  Answer a few questions to find out if you’re eligible for an open work permit.

Visitor Visa

• How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?

  Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months in Canada.
  At the port of entry, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or more than 6 months. If so, they’ll put the date you need to leave by in your passport. They might also give you a document.
  If you don’t get a stamp in your passport, you can stay for 6 months from the day you entered Canada or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
  If you need a stamp, you can ask a border services officer for one. If you arrive at an airport that uses primary inspection kiosks, ask the border officer after you finish at the kiosk.
  If you want to stay longer than your authorized stay, you should apply for an extension at least 30 days before the authorized end of your stay.

• My application for a visitor visa was refused. Should I apply again?

  No. If your application was refused, applying again with the same information, even with an immigration or travel agent, will not change this decision.
  Your application may be refused because:

  • the official deciding your case has reason to believe you’ll stay in Canada beyond your authorized stay
  • you’re inadmissible to Canada

  Applying a second time will not change this decision. It will only cost you more money and increase processing times for other applicants. However, if your situation changes, you may apply again with your new information.
  Examples of your situation changing include:

  • you’ve applied for criminal rehabilitation and were approved
  • you’re eligible for deemed rehabilitation
  • you’re inadmissible but are applying for a temporary resident permit
  • you were inadmissible for medical reasons, but those reasons have since changed

• I am currently living in or visiting a country that I am not a citizen of. Can I apply for a visitor visa at the local visa office?

  If you are applying on paper we recommend that you apply for a visa from your home country. However, if you are legally admitted to the country you are currently in, you can apply at your nearest visa application centre (VAC). The VAC can help make sure your application is complete and that all proper documentation is included. You must state clearly on your application why you have not applied in your normal country of residence.
  You can also apply for a visa online.

• My application for a permanent resident visa is currently being processed at the Embassy. Can I go to Canada as a tourist and wait for my visa there?

  You may travel to Canada as a tourist before you get your permanent resident visa. However, we strongly advise against making any definitive arrangements for your stay in Canada until you have received your permanent resident visa.
  You will need to apply for a visitor visa to travel to Canada as a tourist.
  Please note that having a valid visitor visa does not guarantee your entry into Canada.

  A border services officer will decide if you can enter Canada and how long you can stay.

• I hold a diplomatic or special/service passport. Do I need a visitor visa?

  Holders of diplomatic, official and service passports from visa-required countries do need a visa to visit Canada. However, they may be exempt from paying the processing fee if they are travelling on official business.

• Do I need a Canadian visa if I have a United States visa?

  Yes, most travellers need a visitor visa or an eTA to travel to, or transit through, Canada.
  What you need depends on:

  • the type of travel document you will travel with;
  • the country that issued your travel document;
  • your nationality; and
  • how you will travel to Canada.

• Do I need a visa to visit Canada?

  Most travellers need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport.
  What you need depends on:

  • the type of travel document you will travel with;
  • the country that issued your travel document;
  • your nationality; and
  • how you will travel to Canada.

  If you do not have the proper documents, such as an eTA or visa, you may be delayed or prevented from boarding your flight to Canada.

• What is the difference between a single and a multiple entry visa?

  The main difference between these two visa types is that a single entry visa allows entry to Canada for one-time only and a multiple entry visa allows entry many times.

• Why was I issued a single entry visa instead of a multiple entry visa?

  All applicants who are eligible for a multiple entry visa will be issued one. However, not all applicants will be eligible for a multiple entry visa. This remains at the discretion of a visa officer. A single entry visa may be issued in cases where, for example:

  • An applicant is eligible for a fee-exemption and where the purpose of entry to Canada is limited (e.g., for an official visit by a foreign national);
  • An applicant is participating in a one-time special event in Canada (e.g., Pan-American Games); and/or
  • Country-specific procedures or guidelines are in place and approved by IRCC.

• How do I get help if my visa application is refused?

  There is no formal appeal process if your application for a temporary resident visa is refused.
  Should you wish to re-apply, you should do so only if your situation has changed substantively or you have significant new information to submit.

• I have U.S. residency (Green Card). Do I need a visa or an eTA to visit Canada or can I use my Green Card?

  As a U.S. Green Card holder, you do not need a visitor visa to travel to Canada. However, you are expected to have an eTA if you plan to fly to or transit through Canada.
  When flying to Canada, you will need to present:

  • proof of status in the U.S. (such as a valid Green Card), and
  • your valid passport that you used to apply for your eTA.

  The border services officer will verify your eTA when you arrive in Canada.
  When travelling by land or sea directly from the U.S., you will only need to provide proof of your U.S. lawful permanent resident status (such as your Green Card).

Caregiver

• An employer in Quebec has offered me a job as a caregiver. What do I apply for?

  If an employer wants to hire you for a position in Quebec, you must apply for a work permit through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Your employer needs to get a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment before they can hire you.
  Quebec selects its own economic immigrants. If you want to settle in Quebec permanently, you won’t be eligible for the Home Child Care Provider or Home Support Worker Pilots.

• What is an employment contract for a live-in caregiver?

  An employment contract is a written agreement. It outlines the conditions of your employment and helps protect your rights as an employee. If there is a misunderstanding between you and your employer over your job and duties, refer to the contract when you talk to your employer.

• What rights do I have as a live-in caregiver under labour or employment laws?

  As a live-in caregiver, you have legal rights to fair working conditions and fair treatment under labour laws in most provinces and territories. Nothing in your contract or working conditions can violate these rights.
  Your employment contract will help protect your rights as an employee. Find out more about the information that should be in your contract.
  You also have the right to leave an unsatisfactory employer. Find out more about extending your stay if you change, lose or quit your job.
  Regulation 185 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations lists the conditions that may be put on your work permit.
  Working conditions, such as minimum hourly wages, vary widely across Canada. You should find out what the labour laws are where you work by checking with your provincial or territorial labour standards office.
  Labour laws may cover rights in areas such as:
  days off each week;
  vacation time with pay;
  paid public holidays;
  overtime pay;
  minimum wage;
  maximum charges for room and board.
  Public holidays are days when most workers, including live-in caregivers, can have the day off with pay or receive a premium for working, which could be overtime pay. In Canada, some common holidays are:
  New Year’s Day (January 1);
  Good Friday (the Friday before Easter);
  Victoria Day (late May);
  Canada Day (July 1);
  Labour Day (early September);
  Thanksgiving (mid-October); and
  Christmas Day (December 25).
  Some provinces or territories have one or two other public holidays.
  See also Temporary Foreign Workers: Your rights and the law.

• Can I work for more than one employer at a time under the Live-in Caregiver Program?

  No, you cannot work for more than one employer at a time under the Live-in Caregiver Program. Under this program, your work permit specifies your employer and the type of work you may do in Canada.

• Can my family come to Canada with me if I am a live-in caregiver?

  Family members do not normally come to Canada with people working under the Live-in Caregiver Program. Even if an employer agrees that a family member can live with you in the home where you will provide care, future employers may not agree to the same terms. Also, you may not make enough money to support your family members in Canada.
  However, you may be allowed to bring your family with you if you satisfy a visa officer that:

  • you have enough money to care for and support your family members in Canada, and
  • your employer will let them live in the home where you will provide care.

• Can my employer deport me?

  No, your employer cannot deport you from Canada. If your employer is threatening to do so, you can file a complaint with your provincial or territorial labour standards office. Threats or intimidation are considered forms of abuse in Canada. A caregiver support network or advocacy group can also give you counselling and help.

• Do I need to extend my work permit while my permanent residence application is being processed?

  You should submit your open work permit application with your permanent residence application. If you do so, you do not need to renew your current Live-in Caregiver Program work permit to keep working for your employer.

  However, you may need a valid work permit to renew documents such as your social insurance card or your health card. In these cases, you would need to renew your work permit.

• I have applied for an open work permit and permanent residence. What if my current work permit expires?

  If you submitted an open work permit application with your permanent residence application, you can keep working after your current work permit expires. However, while the application is being processed, you can work only for the employer on your current work permit. While waiting for the open work permit, you do not have to extend your Live-in Caregiver Program work permit. This condition is known as “implied status.”

• Who should I include on my permanent residence application?

  You must include all your family members even if they are not coming to Canada with you. This includes:

  • spouse or partner
  • dependent children
  • dependent children of dependent children (grandchildren)

  Also, for you to become a permanent resident, all your family members must pass a medical exam and background checks even if they are not coming to Canada with you.
  If you don’t include all of them:

  • you could be refused entry into Canada, and
  • you may not be able to sponsor the family members you didn’t include in your application to come to Canada at a later date.

• How many hours of work experience do I need as a Live-in Caregiver to apply for permanent residence?

  Live-in caregivers working in Canada under the Live-in Caregiver Program need a certain amount of work experience to apply for permanent residence. They can qualify with one of two amounts of experience:

  • 24 months of authorized full-time employment; or
  • 3,900 hours of authorized full-time employment.

  Live-in caregivers applying for permanent residence under the Live-in Caregiver Program, must choose one of these options. We will assess the application according to the option the applicant chooses.

Student Visa

• I want to take language or prerequisite classes. Can I apply through the Student Direct Stream?

  Yes. You can apply for a study permit through the Student Direct Stream if you want to take English or French language or prerequisite classes.
  We’ll only process your study permit through this faster stream if you meet all the eligibility requirements. If you don’t, we’ll review it as a regular study permit. You won’t get faster processing if this happens.

• How do I find out about schools for international students in Canada?

  Canada offers many choices of schools for international students. These include primary and secondary schools, post secondary institutions (i.e. colleges and universities) private career /vocational schools, and language schools. Find more information on choosing a school.
  Once you have chosen a school, you will need to make sure it is on the designated learning institution list. This list names the schools in Canada that are approved to accept international students. A study permit can only be issued to someone who has been accepted to study at a designated learning institution.

• Am I guaranteed a study permit if I apply through the Student Direct Stream?

  No. The Student Direct Stream helps you get a study permit faster, but you still must meet all the eligibility requirements for a study permit. If you don’t meet the requirements, we won’t issue a study permit to you.
  Having a Guaranteed Investment Certificate helps you get a study permit through the Student Direct Stream, but it doesn’t guarantee you a study permit.

• What happens to my Guaranteed Investment Certificate if you refuse my study permit application?

  If we refuse your study permit application, contact the bank that issued your Guaranteed Investment Certificate to get a refund.

• I’m applying for a study permit through the Student Direct Stream. Can I bring my family with me?

  Yes, you may be able to bring your spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children, with you to Canada. They may be eligible for a study or work permit, or a visitor visa. You must submit their applications online when you apply for your study permit. Find out how to submit their applications with yours.

• As an international student, can I take part in co-op and internship programs?

  If you are in an academic, professional or vocational training program at a designated learning institution that requires work experience, such as a co-op or internship placement, you will need a work permit as well as a study permit.
  To get a work permit, you must prove that the work experience is essential to completing your program. Acceptable proof could include a letter from the school you are attending or a copy of the school curriculum.
  The work experience cannot be more than 50% of your total program of study.
  If you are studying English or French as a second language (ESL/FSL), or participating in general interest or preparatory courses, you are not eligible for a co-op work permit.

• As a foreign student, can I return home or travel outside Canada while studying?

  Yes. However, your study permit is not a travel document. It doesn’t give you the right to travel to or enter Canada. Along with your permit, you may need:

  • a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) or
  • an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

  Depending on where you’re from, you may only need your passport. Make sure you know which document you need to travel to and enter Canada.
  Having the travel document you need also doesn’t guarantee you’ll be allowed back into Canada. You still must show the border services officer that you meet all the requirements before we’ll let you re-enter.

• Do I need a permit to study in Canada?

  Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. Some people in specific situations may not. Learn more about who needs a study permit.
  You should apply for a study permit before coming to Canada. Only some people can apply for a study permit from within Canada. Before you apply, you must have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution in Canada.
  How you can apply for a study permit depends on if you’re applying from outside Canada, inside Canada or at the port of entry. Find out what options are available for you.
  Your study permit isn’t a travel document. Your permit lets you study in Canada, but you may also need a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. If we approve your study permit, we’ll also give you either a visitor visa or an eTA, depending on which document you need. This document will let you enter Canada.
  Find out more about how to apply for a study permit.

• How do I apply for a study permit?

  In most cases, you must apply for a study permit before coming to Canada. Make sure you have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution in Canada before you apply.
  How you can apply for a study permit, depends on where you’re applying from. Answer a few questions to find out how you can apply for a study permit.

• When should I apply for my study permit?

  Apply as soon as you receive your letter of acceptance. The times needed to process your application may vary among visa offices. Check our application processing times for details.

• Will I get my money back if CIC turns down my study permit application?

  No, you will not get your money back, even if your application is refused.

Sponsoring your family

• How does the Parents and Grandparents Program work?

  The Parents and Grandparents Program opens at the beginning of the year for a limited time.
  Here is how to participate.
  Step 1: If you’re eligible to become a sponsor, you must submit an online interest to sponsor form. This form is available for a limited time at the beginning of the year.
  Step 2: After the online form closes, we review the submissions and remove any duplicates.
  We’ll invite potential sponsors to submit a complete application in the same order we receive the interest to sponsor forms. We email potential sponsors and invite them to apply. We also post the invitation status on our site.
  Step 3: If you’re invited to apply, we must receive your complete application package by the deadline specified in your invitation.
  To avoid using outdated forms, don’t prepare your application before you’re invited to submit a complete application.
  Find out more about how to apply to sponsor your parents and grandparents.
  If you live in Quebec, find out the steps to take to sponsor your parents and grandparents in Quebec.

• How can I show proof of income to sponsor my parents and grandparents?

  You must provide your Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for each of the three taxation years immediately preceding the date of your application.
  There are two ways you can do this:
  Option 1) Give us permission to get your tax information directly from CRA

  • On the form Financial Evaluation for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship [IMM 5768], under question 8, “Sponsor Statement of Consent”:
    • Check “Yes”, and
    • Provide your Social Insurance Number (SIN), signature and date.

  Option 2) Send us the paper copies of your Notices of Assessment

  • Complete the form Income Sources for the Sponsorship of Parents and Grandparents, and
  • Include the Notices of Assessment with your application package. If you don’t have the paper copies, login to CRA’s My Account to find them online.

• Does the change in age of dependants affect sponsorship undertakings for dependent children?

  Yes, the change in age of dependants affects sponsorship undertakings.
  As of October 24, 2017, the length of undertaking (the length of time you are financially responsible for the person you sponsor) for dependent children has changed:

  • If your dependent child is less than 22 years of age when they become a permanent resident, you are financially responsible for them for 10 years after they become a permanent resident, or until they turn 25 years old, whichever comes first.
  • If your dependent child is 22 years of age or older when they become a permanent resident, you are financially responsible for them for three years after they become a permanent resident.

• Can I sponsor more than one person through the Parents and Grandparents Program?

  Yes, you may sponsor more than one person if you want to.
  If you are invited to apply, you can sponsor your parents and grandparents.
  To do so, you will need to submit separate applications for each person (or couple) you sponsor. We will process each application separately.
  You’ll have to meet the income requirements for all people you apply to sponsor and their dependants.
  Invitations to apply are not transferable. For example, you cannot use the invitation to sponsor your spouse’s parents and grandparents or give it to a friend or other family member.
  If your spouse also wants to sponsor their parents and grandparents, they’ll need to tell us they want to sponsor separately and see if they’re invited to apply.
  Find out more about who you can sponsor under the Parents and Grandparents Program.

• Can I sponsor my in-laws under the Parents and Grandparents Program?

  No, you can only sponsor your own parents and grandparents.
  If you want to co-sign your in-law’s application, your spouse or partner must be the one who received an invitation to apply as a sponsor.
  Even If you receive an invitation to apply, you can’t:

  • use your invitation to sponsor your in-laws.
  • use your invitation to be the co-signer on your in-law’s application.
  • transfer your invitation to your spouse or partner for them to sponsor their parent or grandparent.

  Find out more about who you can sponsor under the Parents and Grandparents Program.

• How will I know if I was invited to apply to sponsor my parents and grandparents?

  If you’re invited to apply, we’ll send you an email to let you know.
  Also, we post the status of each confirmation number on our website every time we do a round of invitations. Everyone who submits an interest to sponsor form gets a confirmation number. Look up your confirmation number to find out if you’re invited to apply.

• I was invited to submit an application to sponsor my parents and grandparents. What do I do next?

  If we emailed you an invitation to sponsor your parents or grandparents, follow the steps sent in the email.
  Make sure you:

  • read the instruction guide and complete the application package
  • pay your fees
  • send us your complete application

  We must receive your complete application package before the deadline specified in your invitation. This mean we have received the application before this date.
  Avoid using outdated forms: don’t prepare your application before you get an invitation.
  Your application will be returned to you if:

  • it’s incomplete
  • fees are missing
  • we receive it past the deadline specified in your email
  • you weren’t invited to apply
  • we can’t match the information in your application with the information you provided in your interest to sponsor form

• Will you stop accepting parent/grandparent applications when you reach 20,000 complete ones even if it’s before June 28?

  If you were invited to apply, we’ll accept your complete application if we get it on or before June 28, 2019. If we get your application after the deadline, we’ll return it to you.

Citizenship

• What is dual citizenship?

  Every country decides whom it considers to be a citizen. If more than one country recognizes you as a citizen, you have dual citizenship.
  You don’t apply for dual citizenship, and there is no related certificate. Canadians are allowed to take foreign citizenship while keeping their Canadian citizenship.
  Ask the embassy of your country of citizenship about its rules before applying for Canadian citizenship.

• Do I become a Canadian citizen when I marry a Canadian?

  No. Marrying a Canadian citizen doesn’t give you citizenship.
  If you want to become a Canadian citizen, you must follow the same steps as everyone else. There isn’t a special process for spouses of Canadian citizens.
  You must meet several requirements to apply for citizenship. You must be physically present in Canada for at least 1,095 days during the five years right before the date you applied. This includes time as a:

  • permanent resident (PR)
  • temporary resident (lawfully authorized to remain in Canada)
  • protected person

  Your Canadian spouse can sponsor you to become a permanent resident if you:

  • don’t live in Canada or
  • aren’t a permanent resident

  You may apply for citizenship if you:

  • are a permanent resident
  • have been physically present in Canada long enough
  • meet the other requirements

  There are different rules to determine if children of Canadians born outside Canada have Canadian citizenship.

• I’m Canadian, but my child was born outside Canada. Are they Canadian?

  Your child is likely a Canadian citizen if at least 1 parent (legal parent at birth or biological parent)

  • was born in Canada, or
  • became a naturalized Canadian citizen before the child was born

  To find out for sure, apply for a citizenship certificate for your child.
  Your child is not automatically a Canadian citizen if they’re an adopted child born outside Canada.

• If I’m applying for citizenship, do I still have to submit the physical presence calculator if I submit the travel journal?

  Yes, you must always submit one of the following physical presence calculators with adult, and some minor, citizenship applications:

  • a printed copy of the online physical presence calculator
  • the paper physical presence form (PDF, 2.23 MB) filled out by hand

  An application without the physical presence calculator is incomplete, and we’ll return it to you.
  You don’t need to submit the travel journal with your application. It’s for your personal use only, to help you complete the physical presence calculator.

• I am a citizen of another country. Will I lose that citizenship if I become a Canadian?

  Under Canadian law, you can be both a Canadian citizen and a citizen of another country.
  However, some countries won’t let you keep their citizenship if you become a Canadian citizen.
  The consulate or embassy of your other country of citizenship can tell you whether this applies to you.

• What can I do if my citizenship application is refused?

  You can apply for Canadian citizenship again. This new application must include all the required forms and documents, including a new application fee. There is no waiting period before you can reapply. However, you should make sure you meet the requirements for Canadian citizenship before you reapply.
  If your citizenship application is refused, you may also seek judicial review of the decision by the Federal Court of Canada. This is not an appeal of the decision. You have thirty (30) days from the date on the refusal letter to apply.

• Who has to take the citizenship test?

  Everyone between the ages of 18 and 54 at the time they apply for citizenship must take the citizenship test. We use the test to determine if you have adequate knowledge of Canada and the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.
  If you are 55 or older when you apply, you do not have to take the test. If you turn 55 during the processing of your application, you still have to take the test since you were under 55 when you signed your application.

• After I apply for citizenship, how long will it be before I write the citizenship test?

  The time between submitting your application and writing the citizenship test can be different for everyone. It depends on your case and on our processing times.
  We will mail you a notice letting you know the time and location of your test. This is your official confirmation that you will be taking the citizenship test.
  Check the Client Application Status service to see when we mailed your notices.
  If you move to a new address, you must tell us. Update your address online.
  If you need urgent processing, check to see if you qualify.

• How long will I wait between my citizenship test and the ceremony?

  In most cases, the ceremony takes place within three months after you pass the test. We’ll give you the results of your test right after you take it.
  If your application is non-routine, we may ask you to go to a hearing with a citizenship officer or judge, even after you pass the test. We’ll send you a letter after the hearing to let you know:

  • what the officer or judge decided
  • the date of your ceremony (if your application was approved)

• What language level do I need when I apply for citizenship?

  If you are between the ages of 18 and 54 on the date you sign your application, you must meet the Canadian Language Benchmarks Level 4 (CLB 4) or higher in speaking and listening.
  This means to become a Canadian citizen you must show that you have an adequate knowledge of English or French by providing, with your citizenship application, proof that you can speak and listen in English or French at CLB/NCLC 4 level or higher.
  Learn how we measure your ability to speak and listen in English or French using CLB/NCLC.

Permanent Residents

• How do I renew my permanent resident card?

  If your permanent resident (PR) card is expired or will expire in less than 9 months, you can apply for a new card. The new card will have a new expiration date. Most new PR cards are valid for 5 years.
  To be eligible for a PR card, you need to:

  • be a permanent resident and
  • submit your application in Canada

  Find out how to submit a PR card application.

• How long will it take to process my PR card?

  You can check current processing times for permanent resident (PR) cards.
  If you need your card sooner, you can apply for urgent processing. If you aren’t eligible, we will process your application normally.
  See also: processing times questions

• How can I get a permanent resident card?

  To apply for a permanent resident (PR) card, you must meet the eligibility requirements.
  If you have a PR card that is going to expire soon or your card was lost, stolen or destroyed, you can apply to renew or replace your PR card.
  New permanent residents will receive their PR cards by mail. You do not need to apply for one.

• What should I do if my PR card has been lost, stolen or destroyed?

  It depends on whether you are inside or outside Canada. Either way, you have to tell us what happened so we can prevent your card from being used by someone else.
  Follow the instructions in the “Replace a lost, stolen or destroyed PR card” section on the page to apply for a PR card.

• What happens if my PR card expires?

  When your permanent resident (PR) card expires, you still have your PR status and can stay in Canada. You may still need your valid PR card for some services in your province.
  If you leave the country, you’ll need a valid PR card to return to Canada by commercial vehicle. If you want to travel outside Canada and don’t have a valid PR card, you can apply to renew or replace your card.

• I am a new permanent resident of Canada. Do I need to apply for a permanent resident card?

  No, we will mail your permanent resident (PR) card to you when you arrive in Canada.
  If you did not provide your Canadian mailing address when you became a permanent resident, use our online address notification tool to send it to us. You must provide your address within 180 days of the day you become a permanent resident. If you do not send it within 180 days, we will cancel the PR card and you will have to apply for another one and pay the processing fees.
  Check current processing times to see how long you will have to wait to get your new card. Please tell us if you did not get your PR card within the processing times.

• How do I pay the fee for my permanent resident card?

  You must pay for your permanent resident card online. We do not accept other methods of payment. After you pay, print a receipt and include it with your paper application.

• Who can apply for a permanent resident card?

  To apply for a permanent resident card, you must:

  • already be a permanent resident of Canada
  • be physically present in Canada
  • not have been asked by the Government of Canada to leave the country and
  • not be a Canadian citizen

  Find how to apply for, renew or replace a permanent resident card.

• You travel with a spouse or common-law partner

  Your spouse or common-law partner needs to be:

  • a Canadian citizen, or
  • a permanent resident working outside Canada, full-time for:
    • a Canadian business, or
    • the Canadian federal, provincial or territorial government

• You’re a dependent child and travel with your parent

  Your parent needs to be:

  • a Canadian citizen, or
  • a permanent resident working outside Canada, full-time for:
    • a Canadian business, or
    • the Canadian federal, provincial or territorial government