Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C)
Exceptional relief when regular immigration pathways do not fit your situation.
Prepared under the legal authority of Atty. George M. Garvida, Barrister & Solicitor
What This Pathway Is
Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) consideration under IRPA section 25 allows IRCC to approve permanent residence in exceptional cases where applying through a regular program is not realistic. It is not a shortcut around normal requirements — it is discretionary relief based on your unique circumstances.
Common factors IRCC may weigh include establishment in Canada, family ties (especially best interests of children in Canada), hardship if required to leave, and compliance history. H&C cannot overcome certain bars (for example, some security or serious criminal inadmissibility issues without separate remedies).
H&C cases require careful legal analysis. EBBI reviews your situation under the supervision of Atty. George M. Garvida before recommending whether an application is appropriate.
If you have ever made a refugee claim in Canada, you may be barred from applying on H&C grounds for a period. IRCC updated its H&C intake instructions on 3 November 2026 after new asylum law came into force. Tell us about any refugee claim before you apply.
IRCC says that in 2027 it will use extra space to finalize permanent residence for people already found eligible on H&C grounds. People in that group do not need to do anything or contact IRCC.
IRCC fees (verify on Canada.ca)
- H&C processing fee: $660
- If approved, right of permanent residence fee: $600 ($1,260 total for the principal applicant)
- Dependent children: verify current fee on the IRCC fee list
When Might H&C Be Considered?
This is general information only — not a guarantee of eligibility. Many cases need urgent lawyer review.
- You are in Canada and face compelling hardship or establishment factors not captured by Express Entry, sponsorship, or other standard programs.
- Children in Canada may be significantly affected if you had to leave.
- You have lived and contributed in Canada for a significant period with strong community ties.
- Returning to your home country may pose medical, safety, or exceptional hardship — with evidence to support your claim.
- You are not simply using H&C because another pathway has a high CRS score or long wait time.
Urgent: If you have a removal order, exclusion order, or refugee claim pending, contact EBBI immediately at (249) 209-6214 before filing anything.
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