Changes to application forms for permanent residency in Canada now in force

A new form for immigrants seeking permanent residence in Canada has been introduced this week as part of changes aimed at making the processing of applications quicker.

The Generic Application Form for Canada’ (IMM0008) has now replaced all existing permanent residence application forms and is for all applications from both Canada and outside Canada.

The form is considered as a logical continuation from temporary residents to permanent residents and creates one universal application for all permanent residence categories.

The changes mean that applicants can now save an incomplete application in order to complete it at a later time. Applicants will be prompted electronically to help with the completion of the form through the use of drop down lists included for select fields.

‘This reduces the time it takes to fill out an application. It is expected that this will also increase the accuracy and consistency of responses,’ said a Canadian Immigration spokesman.

Once the application is completed and validated online by the applicant, a bar code will be generated. This page will be printed and accompany the application form. This will facilitate the entry of data in CIC’s processing system, which should also reduce the amount of data entry required as well as reduce the number of data entry errors that can occur.

The Schedule A Background/declaration is now designated as IMM5669 and needs to be completed by all applicants over 18. The in-Canada application forms IMM5202, IMM5001 and IMM5002 have been replaced with the new IMM0008.

In addition, the sponsorship application form IMM1344A and the sponsorship agreement form IMM1344B have been combined into one form called Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking (IMM1344).

From now all applications for permanent residence where a sponsorship is applicable, must include both the IMM1344 and the IMM0008. This will form a more complete application package that will streamline processing, the spokesman explained.

To achieve gains in efficiency, applicants are strongly encouraged to complete the form electronically by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. However, those completed by hand will still be accepted until March 31, 2012.