How to Apply for H&C in Canada (2026): Forms, Fees and Step-by-Step Process

4 min read

Laptop, passport and organized application forms on a desk, ready to apply online

The short answer: You apply for H&C from inside Canada online, through IRCC's permanent residence portal. The core forms are the IMM 0008 (Generic Application), IMM 5669 (Schedule A), IMM 5406 (Additional Family Information), IMM 5283 (Supplementary Information) and the IMM 5280 document checklist. As of April 30, 2026, fees are $660 for the main applicant plus a $600 right of permanent residence fee and biometrics.

Step 1: Check that H&C is the right application

Before anything else, confirm H&C fits your situation:

You're in Canada and need an exemption from one or more legal requirements.
You don't qualify for certain in-Canada classes, such as spouse or common-law partner in Canada. If you do, use that class instead.
You don't already have an H&C application in process. Only one is allowed at a time.
No refugee bar applies, such as a pending refugee claim or the 12-month wait after a refusal.

Step 2: Gather the forms

IRCC lists these for an in-Canada H&C application:

Completed online (for you and each family member 18 or older):

Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
Schedule A, Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)

PDF forms uploaded to the portal:

Document Checklist (IMM 5280)
Supplementary Information, Humanitarian and Compassionate Considerations (IMM 5283)

If they apply to you:

Use of a Representative (IMM 5476)
Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409)
Declaration from Non-Accompanying Parent/Guardian (IMM 5604)

The IMM 5283 is where you explain your humanitarian factors. Most people attach a detailed written submission as well.

Step 3: Build your evidence

This is the part that decides most cases. Depending on your situation, evidence may include:

Identity and civil documents: passports, birth and marriage certificates
Proof of establishment: employment letters, tax returns, lease, community involvement
Medical records and physician letters
School and therapy records for children
Letters of support from people who know you
Country condition evidence about your home country
A psychological assessment, where it helps

Step 4: Pay the fees

IRCC's fees increased on April 30, 2026. For an H&C application:

Processing fee, main applicant: $660
Processing fee, spouse or common-law partner: $660
Processing fee, each dependent child: $180
Right of permanent residence fee (main applicant and spouse/partner; dependent children exempt): $600
Biometrics: Per IRCC fee list

Always confirm current amounts on IRCC's fee list before paying.

Step 5: Submit and give biometrics

Submit through the online portal. You'll usually receive an acknowledgement and a request to give biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if you haven't already.

Step 6: Wait for Stage 1, then Stage 2

Stage 1 (approval in principle): an officer decides whether your H&C factors justify an exemption.
Stage 2: IRCC checks that you're not inadmissible, including medical, criminal and security checks, before granting PR.

After approval in principle, you may be eligible to apply for an open work permit. IRCC's processing time tool currently estimates more than 10 years for new in-Canada H&C applications.

What should you do while you wait?

Keep your temporary status valid if you can. H&C doesn't give status.
Tell IRCC about changes, such as a new address, a birth or a marriage.
Keep your evidence up to date.
Get advice before travelling outside Canada.

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

What form do I use for an H&C application?

The key H&C form is the IMM 5283 (Supplementary Information), together with the IMM 0008, IMM 5669, IMM 5406 and the IMM 5280 document checklist.

Can I apply for H&C on paper?

IRCC says applying online is the main way to apply. Paper or other formats are only for people who can't apply online and need an accommodation, such as for a disability.

How much does it cost to apply for H&C in 2026?

As of April 30, 2026: $660 for the main applicant, $660 for a spouse or partner, $180 per dependent child, plus a $600 right of permanent residence fee for the main applicant and spouse or partner (dependent children are exempt) and biometrics.

Is the H&C fee refundable if I'm refused?

Generally, processing fees aren't refunded once processing has started. The right of permanent residence fee can be refunded if you don't become a permanent resident. Check IRCC's refund rules for your case.

Key takeaways

Apply online through IRCC's PR portal.
Core forms: IMM 0008, IMM 5669, IMM 5406, IMM 5283, IMM 5280.
Fees from April 30, 2026: $660 main applicant + $600 PR fee + biometrics.
Evidence and your written submission decide most cases.
Keep your status valid while you wait.

The bottom line

The forms are the easy part. What makes an H&C application succeed is a clear, well-evidenced explanation of why your situation deserves an exception.

E-Pathway Immigration prepares H&C applications from start to finish, with a document checklist tailored to your case. We work in English, Chinese and Vietnamese. See our Full Representation service or book a consultation.

About the author

Domonic Cheung is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC, licence R711344) with E-Pathway Immigration in Vancouver. He focuses on humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) applications and complex family sponsorships, and works with clients in English, Chinese and Vietnamese.

Sources

IRCC, Humanitarian and compassionate considerations application guide (canada.ca); IRCC fee list (fees effective April 30, 2026); IRCC processing times tool

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult a licensed RCIC or immigration lawyer for your specific situation.