Document Checklist

Canada Express Entry Document Checklist (After ITA)

Once you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), IRCC gives you 60 days to submit a complete permanent residence application — with no extensions for a missing document. Gather these before your clock starts.

  • 12 documents
  • Updated June 2026

Identity and family

  • Valid passports for you and all family members, including non-accompanying ones
  • Digital photosMeeting IRCC's specifications, for every applicant.
  • Marriage or common-law relationship proofIf applicable.

Language and education

  • Language test resultsIELTS, CELPIP, TEF or TCF — must be less than 2 years old at submission.
  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)Required for any degree, diploma or certificate earned outside Canada, from an IRCC-designated organization such as WES, IQAS or ICES.

Work history

  • Reference letters for every job claimedMust cover duties, hours per week, salary and dates on company letterhead — IRCC assesses actual duties against the NOC, not job titles.
  • Pay stubs or T4s / equivalentSupporting documents for Canadian work experience where relevant.

Funds and admissibility

  • Proof of settlement fundsRequired for most applicants without a valid Canadian job offer; must cover the 6 months immediately before you submit, not just a snapshot balance.
  • Police certificatesFrom every country where you lived 6+ months since turning 18 — including Canada if applicable. Apply early; some countries are slow to issue these.
  • Medical exam resultsFrom an IRCC-designated panel physician; valid for 12 months, so book promptly after ITA.

Final submission

  • Digital copies of every document above, correctly named and uploaded to the online portal
  • Application and right of permanent residence fees paid

Tips

  • The 60-day deadline after ITA is firm — IRCC does not grant extensions for a missing document, so start police certificates and the medical exam the day you're invited.
  • If a police certificate is delayed by the issuing country, upload proof that you've requested it rather than submitting an incomplete application and risking refusal.
  • Proof of funds is assessed over the full 6-month window before submission — large unexplained deposits close to the deadline can trigger extra scrutiny.
  • This checklist is general guidance, not legal advice — always confirm the current document list on the official IRCC website before submitting, since requirements can change.

Requirements change — always confirm the current list with the official source before you submit.

Be first in line

Your next visa deserves more than a hopeful guess.

Join the waitlist and be among the first to check your eligibility, screen your documents and rehearse your interview with VisaMet.

Launch-only email. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.