• What is H & C Application?
• When is it appropriate to make this type of application?
• How long does the application take to process?
• What happens if my H & C application is approved?
• What happens if my H & C application is refused?
• Contact us if you need help!

What is H & C Application?

Humanitarian and Compassionate Applications, or “H & Cs”, are for people who need an exemption from one or more requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act or Regulations in order to apply for permanent residence within Canada. For example, people who do not have legal status in Canada but who have made Canada their home; people who live in Canada without the proper paperwork; someone who has resided in Canada for many years, and has strong family and/or economic ties in Canada; dependent family members who were originally not declared in immigration when their parents immigrated has some of the factors listed above.

When is it appropriate to make this type of application?

You can submit a H & C application at any time if you believe you have compelling reasons that require consideration. However, please note that H & C cases are discretionary, that is, the immigration officer assessing the case can refuse or approve the case based on their own assessment.

Therefore it is extremely important to prepare a very strong submission letter and attach persuasive supporting documentation in support of the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application. The detailed submission letter must outline all the H & C factors of the applicant and should explain why the immigration officer assessing the case should approve the application.

How long does the application take to process?
Applications can take up to 15-24 months to process, and could be longer depending on the case. An interview may be required, as well as a request for additional documentation.

What happens if my H & C application is approved?

If your H & C application is approved, you will be asked to undergo immigration medical exams and obtain police clearances. Once the medicals and police clearances are passed, you would be invited to pick up your Canadian Permanent Residence Card (PR Card).

 What happens if my H & C application is refused?

If your H & C application is refused, then it is essential to act fast! You have only 15 days to appeal the refusal to the Federal Court of Canada. Appealing to the Federal Court e means that you have to show the judge that the immigration officer who refused your case made some errors in law and/or fact. This is not an easy job. However, success is indeed possible. Immigration officers sometimes make mistakes.

Contact us if you need help!

A Humanitarian and Compassionate application is not easy. It involves deep knowledge of the immigration law to present a strong and compelling case to convince the officer to approve your request.

Thank you for reading!

Please contact me if you have any questions or need assistance with your Humanitarian and Compassionate application.