Compassionate Relief Under Canada's Immigration System
Canada's immigration system recognizes that exceptional circumstances may arise where an individual does not qualify for permanent residence through traditional immigration pathways but has compelling humanitarian reasons to remain in Canada. A Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) application allows certain foreign nationals to request permanent residence based on the unique circumstances of their case.
Unlike many immigration programs, H&C applications are discretionary. Immigration officers assess each application individually by considering all relevant humanitarian and compassionate factors presented by the applicant.
At Dejavu Visa Inc., we assist clients in preparing comprehensive and well-supported H&C applications that clearly present their personal circumstances and supporting evidence.
Humanitarian & Compassionate Applications
Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) applications provide a discretionary pathway to permanent residence for certain individuals who do not otherwise qualify under Canada's immigration programs but who would experience exceptional hardship if required to leave Canada.
Humanitarian & Compassionate Applications
A Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) application is a request asking Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to grant permanent residence from within Canada based on exceptional humanitarian considerations.
This pathway is intended for individuals who do not otherwise qualify for permanent residence under Canada's immigration programs but whose personal circumstances warrant special consideration.
Every application is assessed on its own facts, and approval is never guaranteed. Decision-makers consider the totality of the evidence before determining whether sufficient humanitarian and compassionate grounds exist to justify granting permanent residence.
H&C Factors that may be considered
Although every application is different, decision-makers may consider factors such as:
Establishment in Canada
The applicant's ties to Canada may be relevant, including:
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Employment history
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Education
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Volunteer work
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Community involvement
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Financial stability
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Length of residence in Canada
Family Ties
Officers may consider the applicant's family relationships, including:
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Canadian citizen or permanent resident family members
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Dependants residing in Canada
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Family support networks
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The impact of separation from close relatives
Best Interests of the Child
Where a child is directly affected by the application, immigration officers must consider the child's best interests as an important factor in the decision-making process.
This assessment may include:
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Education
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Health
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Emotional well-being
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Stability
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Family relationships
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Developmental needs
Hardship
Decision-makers may consider the hardship an applicant would experience if required to leave Canada.
Depending on the circumstances, hardship may relate to:
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Family separation
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Medical needs
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Financial circumstances
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Personal safety
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Lack of support in the country of return
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Other compelling humanitarian considerations
The hardship must be assessed in the context of the applicant's individual circumstances.
every h&C case unique
Humanitarian & Compassionate applications are highly individualized. There is no checklist that guarantees approval, and immigration officers must consider the unique circumstances of each applicant together with the applicable law and supporting evidence.
Careful preparation and a well-organized application can help ensure that all relevant humanitarian factors are clearly presented for the officer.
how our team can assist you
We provide personalized assistance throughout the Humanitarian & Compassionate application process, including:
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Eligibility assessments
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Strategic case analysis
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Preparation of detailed submissions
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Best interests of the child submissions
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Responses to procedural fairness letters
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Permanent residence application preparation
Our goal is to present a clear, comprehensive, and well-supported application that accurately reflects your individual circumstances.
