What do I do if I have technical problems when applying online?

We want to know about any technical issues you’re having so we can help solve the issue.

If you’re having problems with our forms, read about downloading and uploading forms and documents first.

If you have problems before you apply (while you’re filling out your online application or uploading your documents): Use the Report a technical issue button at the top of your account.

If you’re in Canada and applying to work or study, in some cases, you need to follow special instructions to complete your application, or you may need to apply on paper. Find out if this applies to you.

If you have problems after you submit your application: Use our web form and choose Technical difficulties as the type of enquiry.

To help us find and solve the issue as fast as possible, include :

• surname (last name)
• given name(s)
• date of birth
• country of birth
• the type of device you were using (PC , Mac, iPad, etc.)
• the browser you were using (including version)
• your general location (Africa, Asia, Europe, etc.)
• description of the problem or error message, including the date and time (including time zone) it happened
• screenshots of the page where you had the problem
• a copy/paste text of the full URL of the page
• as much information as possible about the steps you took before you had the problem

If you have it, also include your:

• Unique Client Identifier (UCI)/Client ID Number
• application number
• personal reference code
• current status in Canada and the date of expiration
• the date you applied

For technical issues uploading a form or document, include:

• a copy of the form or document you’re trying to upload (with all fields completed), and
• all your answers to the online questionnaire. To do this:
  • choose “Modify my Answers” at the top of the page
  • save your answers into a document by:
    • taking screen shots or
    • copying and pasting the text

For technical issues linking your application to a new account, include:

• all your answers on the “Link an existing application to this account” page. Save them in a document by:
  • tak ing screenshots or
  • copying and pasting the text

For all other technical issues, include:

• screenshots showing the full browser window of the:
  • page where you’re having problems or trying to sign into your account
  • error message(s) you got

If you need to send many documents and images, find out how to combine documents.

We’ll try to answer within 10 business days after you contact us . Don’t send your question more than once. It can delay our answer.