Protected Person Application

Protected Person Application

Protected Person — Canada Immigration 2025 Overview

A “Protected Person” is someone whom Canada recognizes under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act as either a Convention Refugee or a Person in Need of Protection. Once granted this status, they become eligible to apply for Permanent Residence under the Protected Persons and Convention Refugees class.

Who Qualifies as Protected Person?

  • You must have received a decision from the competent authority (refugee‐claim decision or positive PRRA) recognizing you as a Protected Person.
  • You must not be a “Designated Foreign National” (DFN), or subject to restrictions that bar protected persons from applying for PR.

How to Apply for Permanent Residence

Use the official application package provided by IRCC. Required forms include:

  • IMM 0008 – Generic Application for Canada
  • Schedule 14 – Protected Persons and Convention Refugees
  • Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
  • Additional forms (family info, dependent declarations, etc.) per the Document Checklist

Submit your forms via the official PR Portal (online) or by mail if online is not possible. Don’t forget to validate the forms before printing/submitting.

Biometrics & Medicals

  • If biometrics are required, you will receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) — attend a Service Canada biometric centre as soon as possible.
  • As of 2025, eligible protected persons (and their accompanying family, if any) may be exempt from the second medical exam when applying for PR — if they meet certain criteria.

When Can You Apply?

You can apply for Permanent Residence any time after being notified of your protected person status — unless you’re a DFN, in which case restrictions apply.

Important Considerations & Restrictions

  • Your application may be rejected if you are inadmissible on criminality, security, or health grounds, even if you are a Protected Person.
  • Ensure all forms are completely and correctly filled; incomplete forms can cause delays or refusal.
  • Processing times vary depending on workload and completeness of your application.

Need Help?

If you need guidance with paperwork, documentation, or completing your application — contact us. We can assist you through each step.