H&C Application Documents
Reviewed October 6, 2026
An application based on humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) considerations needs more than a collection of identity documents. It must explain the immigration requirements from which an exemption is requested and provide evidence supporting the circumstances relied on. This page addresses in-Canada permanent residence applications under IRCC’s H&C process; a request made from outside Canada may involve a different application package.
Start with the correct process and checklist
Use the current IRCC H&C application guide and document checklist (IMM 5280). Follow the applicable online instructions, required forms, identity-document requirements and fee instructions. Do not substitute an informal list for IRCC’s checklist.
Eligibility restrictions can affect whether a request may be examined, including certain inadmissibility grounds, pending refugee or other specified proceedings, and waiting periods after some refugee decisions. Exceptions are limited. Section 25 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act governs H&C requests. Get advice about the applicable restrictions before relying on this process.
Explain the exemptions and circumstances
Identify each exemption sought and explain why the supporting facts matter. Organize the submission by issue, with dates, a clear chronology and references to the documents. H&C is not a substitute for a refugee claim: hardship may be relevant, but the decision-maker does not decide the refugee-protection tests through this application.
Evidence of establishment and family relationships
Identity and civil-status records, together with evidence of immigration history and current status required by the checklist.
Employment records, education or training records, tax documents, financial records and other evidence of establishment in Canada relevant to the case.
Documents identifying family relationships, dependency, caregiving responsibilities and the practical consequences of separation.
Specific support letters from people with firsthand knowledge of the applicant. Explain who the writer is, how they know the applicant and what they have personally observed.
Relevant evidence of community involvement, volunteering or other sustained connections. A long list of general character endorsements is not a substitute for evidence addressing the actual circumstances.
Best interests of affected children
If children are directly affected, explain their individual circumstances rather than relying only on the existence of a child in Canada. Relevant evidence may include birth and custody records, schooling, medical or developmental needs, caregiving arrangements, relationships and reliable information about the consequences of relocation or separation. The best interests of affected children must be considered, but they do not automatically determine the result.
Health, hardship and other case-specific evidence
Where relevant, provide current medical reports, evidence about treatment or support needs, family violence, financial dependency, or conditions affecting the applicant or family. Connect country information to the person’s actual circumstances. Include evidence of available support and alternatives where these are material. Do not submit irrelevant sensitive records simply to make the file larger.
Prepare documents carefully and keep the file current
Use clear, legible copies and consistent names and dates. Follow IRCC’s translation and certification instructions for documents not in English or French; not every document needs notarization. Explain missing records or discrepancies. Keep copies of the submission and update IRCC about relevant changes, including family circumstances and contact information.
An application does not automatically stop removal
Submitting an H&C application does not itself stay removal from Canada. If removal is imminent, urgent advice about the available procedures is important. Processing and removal are separate issues; neither a complete document package nor strong support letters guarantee approval.
Related guidance
For advice about the requirements and evidence relevant to your circumstances, contact our office. This article provides general information, not legal advice.