Is It Mandatory to Have a Birth Certificate When Applying for PR in Canada?

By Vijay Lala

Published

When it comes to applying for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada, understanding the role of birth certificates is crucial. The requirements can vary depending on the specific immigration program you choose, so let’s break it down.

Express Entry Program:
For applicants under the Express Entry program, a birth certificate is typically not mandatory for the principal applicant (the person applying for PR). However, it becomes essential when you have dependent children. In this case, you will need to provide birth certificates to establish the relationship between the principal applicant and their children.

Non-Express Entry Programs:
In contrast, for non-Express Entry programs, birth certificates are typically required for all applicants, including the principal applicant and any dependents. This means that in these programs, everyone in your family applying for PR should be prepared to submit their birth certificates as part of the application process.

While birth certificates may not be mandatory for the principal applicant in the Express Entry program, it’s important to remember that they can be invaluable documents to have on hand for various purposes in Canada. Additionally, for all applicants, regardless of the program, other essential documents, such as valid passports, language proficiency test results, education and work experience credentials, police clearance certificates, medical examination results, and proof of funds, are typically required to meet the PR eligibility criteria.

To ensure a successful PR application, it’s essential to understand the specific requirements of your chosen immigration program. Staying informed about the latest immigration policies and guidelines by subscribing to Immiboards Newsletter.

Information Reference: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/permanent-residence/express-entry/applications-received-on-after-january-1-2016-completeness-check.html

By Vijay Lala

Vijay Lala is the founder and editor-in-chief of Immiboards.com. Dual master's degrees in Political Science and Economics, along with a decade of Canadian immigration research experience, have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of immigration law, policy research, and settlement issues. Linkedin  Twitter


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