Humanitarian and compassionate consideration is a discretionary mechanism that may allow a person who would not normally qualify under a regular immigration class to request exemptions or permanent residence relief based on exceptional circumstances.
At a glance
- Establishment in Canada
- Family ties and dependency
- Best interests of children directly affected
- Hardship and circumstances supporting requested exemptions
Exceptional, case-specific assessment
H&C is not a substitute for every unavailable immigration program. IRCC assesses the circumstances as a whole and considers the evidence supporting the requested relief.
Children’s interests
Where children are directly affected, their best interests are an important consideration. Evidence should address the child’s actual circumstances rather than rely on general assertions.
Establishment and family context
Time in Canada, employment, education, community involvement, family relationships and other evidence of establishment may be relevant, depending on the case.
Limits of H&C
There are statutory restrictions and situations where H&C cannot be used in the way an applicant may expect. Current eligibility and procedural requirements should be reviewed before filing.
Official government resources
Use these official sources for the current program rules, forms and government instructions.
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