Immigration Document Checklist

Police clearance certificates (also called police certificates or criminal record checks) must be obtained from every country where you've lived for 6 or more months since age 18. The process varies by country: in Canada, request an RCMP criminal record check through an accredited fingerprinting company. In the US, submit FBI fingerprints (typically through a channeler). In India, apply through the Passport Seva portal. In the UK, request an ACRO police certificate online. Processing times range from 1 week to 3 months depending on the country. Start this process early—it's often the biggest bottleneck.

An ECA is a report issued by a designated organization that verifies your foreign education is equivalent to a completed credential in Canada. Designated organizations include WES (World Education Services), IQAS, CES, ICAS, and the University of Toronto Comparative Education Service. For Express Entry, you must select the "ECA for IRCC" application type. The process typically involves sending your official transcripts and degree certificates to the organization. WES, the most popular option, takes 4–6 weeks after receiving your documents. An ECA is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.

Validity periods vary by document type. Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, TCF) are valid for 2 years from the test date. ECAs are valid for 5 years. Police certificates are generally valid for 12 months but should be as recent as possible. Immigration medical exams are valid for 12 months from the date of the exam. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your intended stay plus extra months (requirements vary by program). Proof of funds should be recent—bank statements typically need to cover the last 3–6 months.

Yes, any document not in English or French must be accompanied by a certified translation. The translation must be done by a certified translator, and you must include the translator's certification (their name, signature, contact information, and a statement that the translation is accurate). Keep the original language document alongside the translation. Some organizations (like WES) have specific translation requirements—check their website before ordering translations.

If you submit an incomplete application, IRCC will either return it (for paper applications) or send a procedural fairness letter or a request for additional documents. This can delay your application by weeks or months. For Express Entry, you typically have 60 days from receiving an ITA to submit a complete application—this timeline cannot be extended. It's critical to start gathering documents before you receive your ITA so you're ready to submit on time.

Yes, licensed immigration consultants (RCICs) and immigration lawyers can help you identify which documents you need, review them for completeness and accuracy, prepare your application forms, and represent you with IRCC. Only use consultants licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). You can search for and verify licensed consultants on ImmigrationRatings.ca.