If you cannot pay your fees online:
Visit the Pay your fees page to learn about the methods of payment accepted by Canadian migration offices.
Incorrect fee payment
Incorrect fee payments may delay processing.
Payment issue – No fee included
We will return your application.
Note: We will start processing of your application after you return your application with the fees.
Payment issue – Not enough fees included
We will return your application and tell you of how much to pay.
Note: We will start processing your application once you return your application with the correct fees.
Payment issue – Overpayment
We will:
- start processing your application, and
- send you a refund.
Note: You do not have to ask for a refund, it will be done automatically.
Payment issue – required biometric fee not included
We will:
- tell you the fee amount and how to pay it.
Note: We will continue processing of your application after you send the missing fees.
Step 4. Submit the Application
Where do I apply?
You may send your application to a Visa Application Center (VAC) that serves your area or apply online.
Send the document checklist
Make sure you fill out the Document Checklist [IMM 5488] (PDF, 316.89KB) and include it with your application package.
What Happens Next
The application process
Submission
Completion check
Once you have submitted your application, we will check to make sure that:
- you have properly completed and submitted all of the required application forms;
- you have paid the application processing fee; and
- you have sent all requested supporting documentation.
If your application package is incomplete:
- we will return it to you;
- we will not create a file; and
- we will not keep a record until you have submitted a complete application.
Note: To avoid processing delays, pay your biometric fees at the same time as your application processing fees, using the same method of payment.
Processing
Review for decision
An officer will review your application and assess all the information and documents you have given. If the officer decides that an interview is needed, you will get a letter specifying the date, time and place.
If your application is refused:
- we will send you any original documents, including your passport (if you submitted it with your application); and
- we will send you an explanation about the refusal of your application.
If your application is approved:
- we will send you any original documents, including your passport (if you submitted it with your application); and
- we will send you a letter of introduction confirming the approval of your work permit application.
Note: If we suspect that you have submitted false documents, they will not be returned.
Arrival in Canada
If there has been a change in circumstances between the date of your application for a work permit and your arrival in Canada, or if more information becomes available to the migration office, you may be refused entry.
A letter of introduction does not guarantee entry into Canada.
An officer at the port of entry will decide if you are still eligible for admission when you arrive and how long you may stay. You will be issued a work permit at this time.
You must leave Canada on or before the date set by the officer or you must apply for an extension of your status in Canada.
Note: If you gave biometric information as part of your application, when you arrive at the Canadian port of entry, the officer:
- will check your travel documents and compare you to the photo taken at the time of your application, and
- may ask you to proceed to a secondary inspection line where your fingerprints will be compared with the fingerprints that were taken at the time of your application.
What you can do to help processing
There are certain things you can do to help make sure your application is processed as fast as possible:
- send all documents and information we have asked for with your application
- pay your application and biometric fees (if required)
- provide your biometrics as soon as possible (if required)
- tell us if your contact information changes, including:
- mailing address
- telephone numbers
- facsimile number (fax)
- e-mail address
Things that delay processing
The following may delay processing:
- unclear photocopies of documents
- verification of your information and documents
- a medical condition that may need more tests or consultations
- a criminal or security problem
- consultation is needed with other offices in Canada and abroad
