Applying for a Humanitarian Program: List of Documents and Next Steps

When applying for a Humanitarian program, it's crucial to gather as much supporting documentation as possible. This can significantly influence the officer's decision.

We previously discussed the Humanitarian Immigration Program to Canada and the exceptional cases where it can be used.

Remember, it's recommended to have a qualified lawyer prepare your application package for the humanitarian program. You can include any reasons that you believe will make your application more convincing.

You can add any documentary evidence that shows why others might feel compassion and want to help. This can be the foundation for a successful application for immigration on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.

We'll look at the maximum number of supporting documents that can make your application bulletproof. These documents serve as important evidence demonstrating your ties to Canada and why you should stay here.

In this article, you'll learn about:

letters serving as supporting documents;
records and statements serving as supporting documents;
other evidence of ties to Canada;
how to apply from within Canada (+ additional document list);
the cost of applying on humanitarian and compassionate grounds;
what happens after submitting your application;
how an officer makes a decision on your application.

Letters

You can use letters from family members as documentary evidence. These letters should describe how important it is for you to stay in Canada. Letters from friends and people in your social circle in Canada are also very important to show your integration into Canadian society.

Support letters from the following people and organizations can help strengthen your application:

family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents: you may include information on how family members are related to the applicant, why the applicant should be allowed to stay in Canada, and the impact on the family if the applicant has to leave Canada;
employers: you may include information about the applicant's position and nature of work, employment history, salary, and any positive feedback the employer can provide about the applicant;
educational institutions: you may include information about the applicant's attendance and progress in studies;
shelters or counselors: you may include information that a woman sought help due to domestic violence;
therapists or counselors: you may include information that the applicant is concerned about how they will cope with difficulties if they return to their country of origin;
religious leaders or organization members: you may include information that the applicant participates in a religious community or community events as a volunteer or participant;
friends and neighbors: you may include information showing that the applicant is a valuable member of the community.