What is an e-APR in Canada?
The ever-changing world of immigration presents new terminology constantly. Of course, keeping up-to-date is not that easy. That’s why I’ll try to explain the new terms on our website. Thus, let’s explore the meaning of e-APR in Canada.
- Explaining APR before discussing e-APR
- What is e-APR, then?
- Important notes to consider
- Let us help!
Explaining APR before discussing e-APR
APR stands for Application for Permanent Residence. Every person who wants to become a permanent resident in Canada must apply first. Of course, applications involve several forms and documents. Under section 12 of IRPA, we may divide the applications into three groups:
Regardless of the type of application, you sometimes apply on paper and sometimes online. However, oral applications are not available to permanent resident cases. In other words, for APR, you must submit a written request, either on paper or electronically.
What is e-APR, then?
If you apply online, then you are submitting an e-APR. Therefore e-APR or electronic Application for Permanent Residence is nothing but an online application for PR. Some examples of e-APR include the following:
Of course, IRCC may expand their online application options in the future. Some of the benefits of e-APR applications include:
- Online applications are environment-friendly (no need to print papers).
- There is no need to spend money on mailing documents. Consequently, the risk of losing documents is close to nil.
- The document checklist is clear. You may not apply if you have uploaded all the files.
Important notes to consider
It seems e-APR applications are much better than on-paper packages. However, when you are submitting an e-APR, consider the following:
- Take screenshots of all the online forms you fill. Consequently, you could avoid discrepancies in future applications. Discrepancies could result in misrepresentation and inadmissibility.
- Keep the size of the files under 4MB. Of course, IRCC may change the file-size limits in the future.
- Use PDF as the only format for the files. PDF is professional and precise. However, for passport photos, you may use JPG or PNG.
- Make sure the contents of the files are clear and readable.
- The names of the files must reflect the issues they are addressing. Therefore, you reduce the chances of uploading the wrong file.
- If a file contains multiple documents, add a table of contents as the first page.
- Keep a copy of the uploaded files for future reference.
- Avoid uploading fraudulent documents. Just because you are submitting files electronically doesn’t mean you can be untruthful.
Let us help!
Whether submitting an e-APR application or other types of applications, we could help. Please fill out our assessment form, book a consultation session, or fill out the following form. Of course, we will get back to you as soon as we can.
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Al Parsai, LLM, MA, RCIC-IRB
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Adjunct Professor, Queen’s University Faculty of Law
Instructor, Ashton College, Immigration Consulting Program
Author of 88 Tips on Immigration to Canada and Inadmissibility to Canada for Human Rights Violations
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