What goes into your PR journey

What happens

• - You receive a temporary application number
• - Application enters the queue for completeness check
• - Clock starts for processing times

Important notes

• - This is NOT the same as AOR
• - No File number assigned yet
• - Cannot link application to online account yet

What happens

• - Receive official letter with UCI and Application number
• - Can now link application to IRCC account
• - Can access ECAS (Enhanced Client Application Status)
• - Eligibility and background checks begin

Important notes

• - If biometric fees not paid, may receive ADR (Additional Document Request)
• - Application may be returned before AOR if incomplete (missing forms, signatures, fees)
• - Common return reasons: Birth certificate issues, missing family information in IMM5406/IMM5669, PCC issues, name mismatches

What happens

• - Receive letter with instructions
• - Book appointment at VAC (Visa Application Centre)
• - Biometrics linked to application within 24-48 hours

Important notes

• - All PR applications require new biometrics even if you have given biometric in the past
• - Fee: $85 CAD per person
• - Results valid for 10 years

What happens

• - Upfront Medical: Already done - IRCC reviews existing results
• - Medical Request: Book with panel physician, results sent directly to IRCC
• - Takes 2-8 weeks for IRCC to review

Important notes

• - Inland: Currently exempt if IME done in past 5 years
• - Outland: Required unless valid IME on file
• - Medical validity: 12 months from exam date
• - May require furtherance (additional tests) for certain conditions

What happens

• - Eligibility is passed or recommended passed
• - Good sign that application is progressing well
• - Not a guarantee of approval

Important notes

• - Both inland and outland receive this
• - Sometimes doesn't trigger for inland applicants
• - Contains links to settlement services
• - Not all applicants receive PAL

Eligibility Assessment

• - Education credentials verification
• - NOC code validation
• - Work experience verification
• - Proof of funds (if required)
• - Language test results
• - Provincial nomination validity

Medical check

• - Review of medical exam results
• - RMO (Regional Medical Officer) assessment if needed
• - May require furtherance or re-medical

Criminality Check

• - Police certificates review
• - Biometric results verification
• - NRT (No Reportable Trace) verification
• - If NRT found, additional review required

Security Check

• - Routine (99% cases): 2-8 weeks
• - Comprehensive: No timeline, can take months/years
• - Information sharing with partner agencies
• - Travel history review

What happens

• - Application approved or refused
• - If approved, next steps initiated (Portal/PPR)
• - GCKey account updated

Important notes

• - May see "Decision Made" in ECAS before receiving communication
• - Ghost updates common before FD
• - If refused, will receive detailed letter with reasons

What happens

• - Confirm physical presence in Canada
• - UCI and application numbers
• - Email addresses for all family members
• - Current Canadian address
• - Declaration of any changes

Important notes

• - Must reply within 7 days

What happens

• - Create portal account using provided credentials
• - Upload photo (specific requirements)
• - Confirm Canadian address for PR card delivery
• - Declaration and digital signature

Important notes

• - Complete within 7 days of receiving

What happens

• - Submit passport to VAC or visa office
• - Include photos and PPR letter
• - Pay transmission fees

Processing

• - 1-4 weeks for stamping and return

What it provides

• - Proof of PR status
• - Can apply for SIN
• - Can apply for health card
• - Valid until PR card arrives

Important notes

• - First card free
• - Valid for 5 years
• - Required for international travel
• - Can use eCOPR + passport domestically
• - Mailed to Canadian address only