Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds
Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) applications provide a discretionary pathway to permanent residence for individuals who do not qualify under another immigration program but have compelling humanitarian circumstances. Each application is assessed on its own merits, with officers considering the applicant’s personal circumstances and whether sufficient humanitarian and compassionate grounds justify granting permanent residence.
Factors Considered in an H&C Application
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Establishment in Canada
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Best interests of any child directly affected
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Family ties in Canada
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Conditions in the applicant’s country of origin
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Medical or health considerations
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Family violence or abuse
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Separation from close family members
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Other compelling humanitarian circumstances
Every Humanitarian and Compassionate application is unique. Immigration officers assess all relevant circumstances together rather than relying on any single factor.
Important to Know
Humanitarian and Compassionate applications are discretionary. Meeting one or more of the factors above does not automatically result in approval. Applicants must present persuasive evidence demonstrating why permanent residence should be granted despite not qualifying under another immigration category.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I apply if I am out of status?
Yes, some individuals without valid temporary resident status may still be eligible to submit an H&C application, although every situation is different.
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Can I submit an H&C application from outside Canada?
In certain circumstances, yes, although most H&C applications are made from within Canada.
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Will an H&C application stop my removal?
No. Filing an H&C application does not automatically prevent enforcement action or removal from Canada.
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How long does an H&C application take?
Processing times vary depending on IRCC workloads and the complexity of the application.
GLG Insight
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​Successful Humanitarian and Compassionate applications are rarely based on a single hardship. They are built by presenting a complete picture of the applicant’s circumstances and demonstrating how the humanitarian factors, when considered together, justify an exemption under Canada’s immigration legislation. Clear, organized and persuasive supporting evidence is often one of the most important elements of a successful application.
How We Can Help
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Humanitarian and Compassionate applications often involve complex personal and legal issues that require careful analysis and detailed supporting documentation. GLG Immigration Consulting Services assists clients in assessing whether an H&C application is appropriate, identifying the factors that strengthen the case, and preparing comprehensive submissions that clearly present the applicant’s circumstances and supporting evidence.
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Humanitarian and Compassionate applications are not an pathway to PR, nor are they an appeal or a reconsideration of a previous refusal. Instead, they ask IRCC to exercise discretionary authority based on compelling humanitarian and compassionate considerations.