How to complete an Online Application

Certain applications can be completed online. This video helps you understand how to complete an Online Application.

  How to complete an Online Application

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Transcript for “How to complete an Online Application” Video

Video length: 8:37 minutes

Welcome!

Did you know that you can apply online for some Citizenship and Immigration Canada services?

This video offers an overview of our Online Application service. We will talk about how to access our system and cover some key things you need to know about using it.

Our Online Application system is easy to use, and can also save you time and money.

The system helps you to complete your application properly, reducing errors that can cause processing delays.

Completing and submitting your application online often ensures faster service. After all, you do not have to wait for mail delivery. You also save money because there is no cost to mailing your forms to us. 

Let’s get started!

Go to the Online Services page on Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website at www.immigration.gc.ca/e-services.

On our Online Services page, you can choose from a number of application types.

Select the service for which you wish to apply. This will bring you to a page that details the steps you need to follow to complete your Online Application.

The first step is figuring out whether you’re eligible to apply.

Complete the self-assessment tool here to find out if you qualify – or review the eligibility criteria here.

Next, it’s time to get organized.

Before logging into the system to start the application process, be sure to gather all the supporting documents you need in electronic format. Scan all printed materials you need to include with your application before you get started. This will help you complete the application process more quickly and avoid unnecessary delays.

At a certain point in the application, the system will not let you proceed if you do not attach all of the necessary documents. That’s why it is easier to have everything you need before you begin.

Click here to find out what documents you’ll need for your application.

Now that you’re organized, it’s time to log in or register for MyCIC right here.

If you already have an account, click “yes” or “log in now.”

If this is your first time using the system, you can register for a MyCIC account by selecting “no” here. This will bring you to the registration page.

First, create an Access Key by clicking on this link and following the instructions.

Once you have your Access Key, you can log in to MyCIC right here.

Now, enter your MyCIC user ID and password. Click “log in.”

If this is your first time logging into MyCIC, you will need to enroll in the system by providing some personal information. This step is only required for first-time users.

Now that you’re in the system, click on the link to apply online to get your application underway. Select the service for which you wish to apply.

The system will then ask you if you want it to pre-fill your application form with the information you have already provided us when you first enrolled in MyCIC. Select “I Consent” if you would like to choose this option and save time. If you pick “I Do Not Consent,” you will be asked to fill in your personal details.

Next, select your language: English or French. Once you choose your language, you cannot change it, so be sure to pick the language you are most comfortable using.

As you complete your application online, there are some key points you need to know.

The system will not let you proceed past a question without answering it. In other words, you cannot skip questions or sections.

If you want to go back and correct a section, do not use the back button on your navigation bar.

Instead, use the “View/Modify” link on the right hand side of your screen. Click here and the system will give you access to the questions you answered earlier. You can make changes and the system will automatically save them.

If you do not fully understand a question and you need help, click the question mark. There, you’ll find information and examples that explain the question in detail.

Another great resource is the glossary. Notice the blue, underlined words in some questions. Clicking on the word will give you the definition.

If you’re still looking for answers, try the Frequently Asked Questions – or FAQs – at the top of your screen.

Another option if you’re having trouble with your Online Application is to select “Contact the call centre for help,” right here.

Fill out the online form. Your question will go directly to our call centre.

We will prepare a response and send you an email to answer your question.

The “Where am I?” tool to the right of your screen is also a handy tool. This shows you exactly how much progress you’ve made and how much work remains to be done before your application is complete.

Remember, you can log out at any point by clicking on “Exit” and return another time to complete your application. You have 60 days to complete it.

However, we recommend doing your best to complete the application process in one visit. That’s why being prepared with the documents you need before you start is a huge help.

Now let’s talk about the main problem people tend to encounter when using the online system: attaching supporting documents.

First, each document must be attached to your application as one file.

For example, if you need to attach your passport, do not scan and attach each page of your passport individually. This will not work. You must scan all pages required and attach them as one file.

Each file must not exceed 2 Mega-Bytes. If you are not sure how to do this, read through your scanner’s instruction manual. Every scanner is different.

Our system accepts files in PDF, Word, JPEG, PNG and TIF formats.

Remember to access the FAQs at the top of your screen if you want to know more about attaching documents to your online application. You will also find tips for reducing your file size.

If you do not have access to a scanner, you can take digital photos of your document, but remember to save them in one file.

The system-generated document list you see here is based on your answers to questions in your application. Be sure to provide all documents requested of you.

Once you’ve completed your application, do a final review of your answers. Make changes if needed.

Then, after reviewing each section, click the “I accept” box to indicate that all the information you’ve provided is, in fact, correct.

If you choose to pay online through the Online Application, you will be prompted to make your payment using a credit card.

Once you have paid your fees, you will receive an online acknowledgement and an application reference number. Keep these for your records.

It is also very important to retain a record of your application for your own files so you know what information you have provided us.

At the very bottom of this page, select the “Save to File” option. This allows you to save a PDF copy of your completed application.

We also encourage you to complete our online survey, by clicking the survey button here.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada will contact you by email to let you know when we have updated your application or require more information.

Simply click on the link in the email and log in to MyCIC.

Take a look at your status and document checklist. If we need additional documents from you, they will be noted here.

You will always be notified of changes and updates by email. There is no need to log in to MyCIC until you hear from us.

Remember, you can access MyCIC – and find out more about it – on our website, at www.immigration.gc.ca/MyCIC.