For some IRCC applications, you must submit a paper application. You might be able to link it to your online account for quicker status updates. Click Link an application to your IRCC secure account – Canada.ca to check if your application can be linked.
To link your application:
- Sign in to your online account or create a new one if you haven’t already (this can be done with a GC Key, or with secure banking partner credentials).
- In your account, go to the section labelled “View the applications you submitted,” (towards the bottom of the webpage) and select “Add (link) your application to your account to check your status.”
- Enter the information exactly as it appears on your original paper application. If you’ve updated your information since submitting the application, use the most recent details. You can also choose the combinations of personal information you provide to link your application (passport number, Unique Client Identifier (UCI), Social Insurance Number (SIN), etc.
- You have 5 attempts to link your application. If you are unsuccessful after 5 tries, your account will be temporarily locked for 24 hours.
Once your application is linked, you will no longer receive paper letters regarding your application. All communication will be sent to your online account.
Additionally, if you are using a representative (immigration lawyer, consultant, or trusted friend/family member), they will lose access to your application once it is linked to your account.
Once your application is linked, it will appear in the “View my submitted applications or profiles” section on your main account page. To view the status of your application and any related messages, click on “Check status and messages.” If you receive a “Linking in progress,” message, IRCC advises you to check your application status at a later time.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE “NO MATCHES” OF YOUR APPLICATION
- Application Not Yet Entered: If you applied by mail or in person, it may take time for IRCC to process it. Use a tracked courier for confirmation and call IRCC for updates.
- Wrong Application Category: Ensure you select the correct category for your application, like “Canadian Experience Class” for CEC or the specific program you applied for.
- Mismatched Information: Check that the details you enter exactly match those on your application. Watch for formatting errors or extra spaces.
Common issues when linking an application include:
- Top of Form
- Bottom of Form
Top of Form
Bottom of Form
- Name Mismatch: Ensure that the name you enter exactly matches the name in your passport. Discrepancies can prevent your application from linking properly.
- Incorrect Family Count: For family sponsorship applications, include everyone involved, such as the sponsor and any co-signers. The total count should be at least 2, including the primary applicant.
- Place of Birth Discrepancy: Enter the city or town of birth exactly as it appears in your passport. If passport details aren’t provided, use the information from the IMM 0008 form. Mismatches can cause linking issues.
