Having your documents prepared ahead of time is an important aspect of preparing to submit your application for permanent residence (PR) after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through Canada’s Express Entry system and applying within the 60-day timeframe. This can save you the stress and not miss out on the chance.
You will need to accompany your application with several documents, and some of these may take time to obtain and may cost you money. This is why it is better to start sooner than later!
Documents You’ll Need for Your PR Application
To be eligible for permanent residency through Express Entry, you will need these documents:-
A valid passport
Birth Certificate
Proof of Work Experience (This could include job reference letters and/or paystubs and/or contracts documenting your work experience)
Police Clearance Certificates (To demonstrate that there is no criminal record)
Latest Language Test Results (IELTS, CELPIP, or any other recognized language test)
Updated Education Credential Assessment (ECA) Report
Photos of the main applicant and accompanying family members
Apart from these mandatory documents, depending on your circumstances, you might need additional documents. These are:
Post-secondary transcripts – If you’ve taken any post-secondary schooling, official transcripts will be required.
Proof of settlement funds – This shows that you have enough money to support yourself and your family in Canada.
Receipt for immigration medical exam – You will only be required to get this once IRCC asks for it after you submit your application.
Marriage or death certificates
Work contracts and pay stubs
Tax documents
Other Documents You May Need
Some other documents are not a requirement for all applicants, but they may be relevant to you. For example:
Proof of relationship with a relative in Canada – If you have a relative who is a Canadian permanent resident or citizen, this can help you in getting additional points.
Authority to Release Personal Information form (IMM 5475) – This lets someone else (like a lawyer or consultant) ask about your application on your behalf.
Also Read:- Major Express Entry Changes: What You Need to Know in 2025
What to Do After You Get Your ITA
When you receive your ITA, there are many things you will have to do to make sure your PR application is complete and submitted on time. Here’s the list of steps you need to take:
1. Read Your ITA Very Carefully
As soon as you receive your ITA, sit down and thoroughly review it. Make sure all the information in your ITA matches the details in your Express Entry profile. If it doesn’t, it will likely cause issues with your application.
2. Collect the Documents Required
Start gathering the necessary documents as soon as possible. These may include your passport, language test results, ECA report, your reference letters for your job, police certificates and medical exam results.
3. Fill out the Application for Permanent Residence (APR)
After preparing everything, log in to your Express Entry account and complete the Application for Permanent Residence. Attach all the supporting documents and double-check all details.
4. Pay the Application Fees
Once you submit your application, there is a deadline to pay the application fees. These fees usually cover:
Processing fees for you and your family members
Right of Permanent Residence fees, if applicable
Don’t forget to keep a copy of the payment receipt! You’ll need this for your records.
5. Submit Your Application
After gathering everything and reviewing your application, it’s time to submit! Remember that your application has to be filed within 60 days. If you miss your time to apply, your ITA will expire and you will need to create a new profile.
6. Check Your Application Status
After you submit your application, keep an eye on your account. If needed, IRCC will ask for more documents or request clarification and will notify you through your online account.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Application Process
If you intend to avoid unnecessary delays in your application, here are some common mistakes you should try to avoid:
Not Double-Checking Information
Making small mistakes or leaving incomplete details can create issues. So double-check everything before you click “submit.”
Missing the Deadline
You will have 60 days from the moment you receive your ITA. Do not wait until the last moment to gather your documents!
Not Having All Required Documents
Make sure to have all the required documents in order before you submit your application.
Failing to Pay Fees
Don’t forget to pay all the application fees and take a copy of the payment confirmation. Without it, your application will not be processed.
Not Checking Your Status
After submitting your application, make sure to check your online account. The IRCC might request additional documents or other updates related to your application, so don’t ignore communications.
Also Read:- New NOC Codes Added to Express Entry: What You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long do I have to submit my PR application after receiving an ITA?
You have 60 days to submit your application for permanent residence after receiving an ITA.
2. What are the documents required for my PR application?
You will require documents such as your passport, language test results, educational credentials, work experience documentation, and police clearance.
3. Do I require a medical exam for my PR application?
You only require a medical exam if IRCC asks you to do so after you have submitted your application.
4. What if I miss the 60-day deadline?
If you miss the 60-day deadline, your ITA will expire, and you’ll have to reinitiate the Express Entry process in order to re-enter the pool.
