Humanitarian and Compassionate Application
People without another route who have exceptional humanitarian grounds to stay in Canada.
The Humanitarian and Compassionate Application is a Canadian humanitarian & refugee visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF)) and processing time (~24-36 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application is for
People without another route who have exceptional humanitarian grounds to stay in Canada.
A successful H&C application leads to permanent residence on discretionary grounds.
Humanitarian and Compassionate Application - eligibility criteria
- Demonstrate establishment in Canada
- Best interests of any children affected
- Hardship if required to apply from abroad
- No other immigration program fits the situation
- Be otherwise admissible (or seek relief)
Humanitarian and Compassionate Application cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application (Canada) is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF), with an indicative processing time of ~24-36 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Apply to IRCC from inside (usually) or outside Canada |
| Length of stay | Permanent if approved |
| Work rights | Work rights once PR is granted |
| Study rights | Study rights once PR is granted |
| Government fee | ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF) |
| Processing time | ~24-36 months |
| Route to PR | A successful H&C application leads to permanent residence on discretionary grounds. |
Pathway & next steps
A successful H&C application leads to permanent residence on discretionary grounds.
Many applicants also compare Asylum · Refugee Protection / Asylum Claim, TRP · Temporary Resident Permit, Spousal Sponsorship · Spouse or Common-Law Partner Sponsorship. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Humanitarian and Compassionate Application pitfalls we fix
Humanitarian and Compassionate Application - frequently asked questions
How much does the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application cost?
The Humanitarian and Compassionate Application government fee is ~CA$1,525 (CA$950 processing + CA$575 RPRF). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~24-36 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application lead to permanent residence?
A successful H&C application leads to permanent residence on discretionary grounds.
Can I work on the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application?
Work rights: Work rights once PR is granted.
Who can apply for the Humanitarian and Compassionate Application?
People without another route who have exceptional humanitarian grounds to stay in Canada.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority