Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processes thousands of applications every month for visas, permanent residence, work permits, study permits, and citizenship. Most of these applications are considered "routine," meaning they follow standard procedures and timelines. However, there are situations where an applicant may face extraordinary circumstances that require special attention or faster processing. In such cases, applicants can submit a non-routine application to IRCC.

An IRCC non routine application is a request to expedite or prioritize an immigration application due to urgent, exceptional, or humanitarian reasons. These are not standard applications, and they require a strong justification, as IRCC typically handles all applications in the order they are received. This article will guide you through what a non-routine application is, where and how it’s submitted, the types and benefits of such applications, and frequently asked questions.

Where to Submit a Non-Routine Application to IRCC

A non-routine application is not a separate type of immigration application but rather a special request made within or alongside an existing application. Applicants typically submit these requests through:

• Webform on the IRCC website
• Email to the relevant visa office
• Letter of Explanation attached to the main application
• Through your legal representative or immigration consultant

For urgent cases, especially when applying from outside Canada, it is often recommended to send the request directly to the Canadian visa office responsible for your country or region. When submitting a non-routine application, it is critical to clearly state your case and provide supporting documentation.

Advantages of Submitting a Non-Routine Application

There are several advantages to submitting an IRCC non-routine application:

1. Faster Processing: If your request is accepted, IRCC may expedite your file, cutting weeks or even months from the standard processing time.
2. Priority Handling in Emergencies: Non-routine applications are often prioritized in the event of medical emergencies, family deaths, or humanitarian crises.
3. Consideration of Special Circumstances: IRCC will consider personal hardships, urgent travel needs, or international events impacting the applicant.
4. Flexibility in Unusual Cases: This process provides a mechanism for applicants whose situations do not fit into standard procedures.
5. Acknowledgement of Humanitarian Needs: IRCC recognizes that rigid timelines do not suit every case, and the non-routine route addresses that gap.

However, it’s important to note that IRCC does not guarantee approval or expedited service for every non-routine request. The decision is entirely discretionary.

Steps to Submit a Non-Routine Application for IRCC

To make a successful non-routine request, applicants must follow a structured approach:

1. Prepare a Strong Cover Letter

• Explain your situation clearly and respectfully.
• Include details of your application (file number, name, DOB).
• Specify why your request is urgent or non-routine.
• Mention what kind of relief or action you are requesting.

2. Collect Supporting Documentation

• Medical reports (for emergencies)
• Death certificates (in case of family emergencies)
• Flight tickets or proof of travel urgency
• Court orders or legal documentation
• Letters from doctors, employers, or community leaders

3. Submit via Appropriate Channel

• Use the IRCC webform or send your documents to the visa office.
• For paper applications, attach the cover letter and documents to the application package.

4. Follow Up

• Wait at least a few days before following up.
• Avoid repeated inquiries unless the situation changes or becomes more urgent.

5. Stay Honest and Transparent

• Do not exaggerate or falsify information.
• IRCC has the right to refuse and flag fraudulent applications.

Types of IRCC Non-Routine Applications

Non-routine applications come in various forms, depending on the nature of the urgency. Some common types include:

1. Urgent Processing Request

• Requested when the applicant needs a visa or document urgently due to health, job, or family emergencies.

2. Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Grounds

• Applied in cases involving significant hardship, especially for those living in Canada without legal status.

3. Request for Early Citizenship Test or Oath

• For individuals needing to travel or for life events such as military deployment or marriage.

4. Expedited Travel Document (PR Card, Passport)

• Especially common for permanent residents who need to travel urgently and don’t have a valid PR card.

5. Request for Reconsideration

• When a decision was made but the applicant believes an error occurred and time is critical to correct it.

Each of these types falls under the umbrella of IRCC non-routine application, but they must be tailored specifically to the individual situation.

Conclusion

An IRCC non-routine application provides a pathway for applicants dealing with emergencies, hardships, or urgent travel needs to request special consideration outside the regular processing timelines. While not every request is approved, a well-prepared submission with appropriate documentation can significantly improve your chances of being prioritized.

Understanding how and when to submit a non-routine application is essential for immigrants, international students, workers, and permanent residents navigating the Canadian immigration system. Whether it's a family emergency or an employment-related urgency, IRCC offers this flexible option to respond with empathy and efficiency—when used correctly.

FAQs

1. What qualifies as a non-routine application for IRCC?

A non-routine application typically involves exceptional or urgent circumstances such as medical emergencies, family deaths, humanitarian crises, or urgent travel needs that cannot wait for regular processing times.

2. Is there a separate form for a non-routine application?

No, there is no separate form. Instead, applicants submit a detailed letter with supporting documents along with or after their main application, requesting non-routine processing.

3. How long does IRCC take to respond to a non-routine request?

Response times vary. If the situation is truly urgent and well-documented, IRCC may respond within a few days. In some cases, it may take longer depending on the office and workload.

4. Can a lawyer or immigration consultant file a non-routine request for me?

Yes. Authorized representatives such as immigration consultants or lawyers can submit a non-routine application on your behalf with all necessary documentation and explanations.

5. Can I request urgent processing for a PR card renewal?

Yes, IRCC allows urgent processing for PR cards if you provide valid proof of emergency travel or other time-sensitive commitments.

6. Does a non-routine request guarantee faster results?

No. While IRCC considers non-routine requests carefully, approval is not guaranteed. The strength of your documentation and reasoning will heavily influence the outcome.

7. Is there a fee for submitting a non-routine request?

No, IRCC does not charge a separate fee for making a non-routine application or request, but you must still pay for the original application type (e.g., visa, PR, citizenship).

8. Can I send multiple non-routine requests if my situation worsens?

Yes, but repeated requests should only be made if there is a change in circumstances or new supporting evidence. Repeated requests without new information may be ignored.