Overview
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated its guidance on the completeness review for permanent residence applications submitted through Express Entry. The update reinforces the importance of submitting a complete electronic application for permanent residence (e-APR) within 60 calendar days after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Under the Express Entry system, IRCC conducts a completeness review before an application proceeds through full processing. Applicants are expected to provide the e-APR, required fees and supporting documentation necessary to substantiate the information declared in their Express Entry profile and application.
If a mandatory document is missing, IRCC may reject the application as incomplete and refund the applicable fees. A new Express Entry profile would then generally be required for consideration in a future invitation round.
One important area addressed in the guidance is the medical examination requirement. Applicants are generally expected to provide medical examination information when submitting their application. However, a temporary public policy applies to certain applicants residing in Canada who completed an immigration medical examination within the preceding five years. Applicants outside Canada are subject to the regular process. Limited exceptions may apply.
The updated guidance also emphasizes the importance of police certificates. Police certificates from each required country should meet IRCC’s timing and document-format requirements, and colour scans of original certificates are expected.
Other key documents associated with proof of identity, work experience, education, funds, marital or family relationships, qualifying employment offers with specific content requirements, and provincial or territorial certificates of qualification, depending on the applicant’s circumstances, may all be relevant and should meet IRCC requirements.
Importantly, not every document has the same consequences at the completeness stage. Some documents are mandatory and their absence can result in rejection, while other supporting evidence may be requested to establish eligibility during processing.
Applicants should therefore review their personalized IRCC document checklist carefully and ensure the information in the e-APR matches the original Express Entry profile. Given the 60-day submission deadline and the potential consequences of missing mandatory documentation, careful preparation before submitting an e-APR remains essential.
Fillmore Riley’s Immigration & Global Mobility Practice
If you have received an Invitation to Apply or are preparing your e-APR, our firm can help guide you through the process with up-to-date legal insight, detailed drafting assistance, and personalized practical advice.
This update is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. IRCC requirements are subject to change.