What is an H&C application?
An H&C is a special kind of application to become a “permanent resident” of Canada. It asks the government to let you apply for permanent residence from inside Canada because of “Humanitarian and Compassionate” reasons.
This is an option for people who are not eligible to apply for permanent residence through another pathway. This means that you might want to stay in Canada because:
I do not have status in Canada. Can I apply for an H&C?
Yes!
If you are living in Canada without status, you can make an H&C application any time.
You should get legal advice to see if it is a good option for you. If you do not have a lawyer, contact the Centre for Refugee Children and we can help you to get legal advice
I am a refugee claimant in Canada. Can I apply for an H&C?
Not right away.
You cannot apply for an H&C if you are in the refugee claim process.
Talk to your lawyer to decide if it might be a good idea for you to stop your refugee claim and apply for an H&C instead.
I got a negative decision on my refugee claim. Can I apply for an H&C?
Yes!
If you are under 18, you can apply for an H&C right away.
If you are over 18, you might have to wait for 12 months after the date of your negative decision. Talk to your lawyer to see if you need to wait or if you can apply now.
Who can help me apply for an H&C?