Quick summary
#Submit it with your main application.
When the official instructions indicate this form is required
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form IMM 5386?)
#By ensuring that all necessary documents are included, applicants can facilitate a smoother application process and increase their chances of obtaining a work permit to gain valuable work experience in Canada, as described in the International Experience Canada (IEC) guide.
First page of IMM 5386 form
Source: IMM 5386 online portal
Context and workflow
#Processing time for IMM 5386 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official IRCC processing time tool.
Why this matters
- This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
- Small mismatches inside IMM 5386 (or between IMM 5386 and supporting evidence) can force rework later in processing.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Initiating the application process for a work permit under the IEC program.
- Ensuring all required documents are submitted before receiving an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR).
Who uses it
Submit it with your main application.
When it is used
- When the official instructions indicate this form is required
- As part of a complete application package with supporting documents
- Iec — International Experience Canada checklist
- When supplementing IMM-5710 — IMM 5386 provides additional required information
Requirements snapshot
#- To help applicants avoid common mistakes that can lead to application delays or rejections.
Failure prevention (What causes Form IMM 5386 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Submitting the checklist without all required documents.
- Incorrectly filling out the checklist or related forms.
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Providing documents that do not meet IRCC standards.
What it asks for (What does Form IMM 5386 ask for?)
#- The form asks for a checklist of documents required for the IEC work permit application.
- Verification of eligibility criteria
- Confirmation of invitation to apply
- Confirmation of valid letter of introduction (LOI)
- Biometric information and appointment details
- Documentation related to: Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence
What you need (What do you need for Form IMM 5386?)
#- The current edition of IMM 5386
- Details matching the main application
- Supporting documents as listed in the checklist
- Required signatures
- Proof of financial support to cover your stay
- Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.
- Copy of your filed or approved IMM-5710 (Checklist for IEC work permit in Canada)
Checklist (What is the Form IMM 5386 checklist?)
#- Access the latest IMM 5386 form along with its instructions directly from the official IRCC website.
- Review the official IMM 5386 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of IMM 5386
- Ensure that you sign and date the IMM 5386 form before submitting it, along with all necessary supporting documents.
Fees
#There is no IRCC filing fee for Form IMM 5386.
Processing times
#- processing time 2 weeks after you submit all documents and give biometrics Prepare for arrival Recognized organizations (ROs) 7 ROs may be able to help you plan your experience.
- Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
- Processing times for this form vary by IRCC office and current workload. Verify current processing times with IRCC.
- While pending: track your case status using your application number, respond promptly to any requests for additional documents, and update your contact information with IRCC if it changes.
Where to file
#Submit your application at the designated IRCC office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
Submit application
Submit your application at the IRCC office or designated embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct location.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official IRCC website before submitting. For related guidance, see Application to Change Conditions, Extend my.
Strategy tips
#Common mistakes (What mistakes are common with Form IMM 5386?)
#- Failure to submit all required documents may result in application rejection.
- Missing proof of eligibility for the IEC program.
Examples (What are examples for Form IMM 5386?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
- Common weakness: An applicant submits the checklist without attaching proof of financial support, leading to a request for additional information and delays.
- Scenario: A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents The case was approved within the standard timeline Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays
- An applicant in the Iec category files IMM 5386 as part of their immigration process
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form IMM 5386?)
#- These forms do not stand alone—they must be filed with the principal application
- Inconsistencies with the main application can result in delays or refusal
- IMM 5386 has no separate filing fee, but it is not optional paperwork — failing to include it when required can delay or jeopardize the underlying case.
- IMM 5386 can be rejected before substantive review for technical errors such as “Submitting the checklist without all required documents.”
- A complete IMM 5386 can still be denied on the merits — issues like “Providing documents that do not meet IRCC standards” are evaluated by the reviewer even when paperwork is clean.
- Submitting IMM 5386 is the start of the process — applicants should expect follow-up steps such as “Receive Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC.”
Edge cases and variations
#- Different checklists may apply based on where you apply (inside vs. outside the country).
- Some work permit categories are exempt from certain requirements while others are not.
- If you are asked to submit or update IMM 5386, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
In-depth guidance
#How to complete this form reliably
Treat IMM 5386 as part of a system, not a standalone document. Most delays happen when details conflict across the form, supporting documents, and other parts of the application package. Before you start, gather the documents you will reference and decide which one is the source of truth for each field.
Fill the form in one sitting if possible. Partially-completed forms are where inconsistent edits creep in. When you finish, review each section and ask "what evidence in my package proves this statement?"
How to use a document checklist
Use it as a build sheet: create a folder structure that mirrors the checklist sections, then place each required item into the matching folder. Before submitting, reconcile the checklist against your final upload: every required line item should map to a real file you can open.
Scenarios
#A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents
The case was approved within the standard timeline
Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays
Key differentiators
#- Unlike Work permit application from outside Canada: This form is specifically for applicants already in Canada under the IEC program.
- Unlike Form IMM 5710: Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay – Worker: Supporting form: Checklist for IEC work permit in Canada
- Unlike Form IMM 0267: Employment Information Form - Individual Employer - Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots: Part of employment-based immigration process (International Experience Canada pathway)
Why it matters
#What happens after you submit
#- Receive Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC.
- Attend biometrics collection appointment if required.
- Wait for IRCC to process the application and make a decision.
- Receive notification of approval or request for additional information.
- If approved, receive the work permit and begin employment in Canada.
Verification
#This guide is derived from official IRCC instructions for IMM 5386 and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official IRCC website.
Resources
#Free Canada planning tools
#Itemize the government fees that go alongside Form IMM 5386.
See which Canada visas your profile fits before you finalize Form IMM 5386.
Get the typical wait time for the visa associated with Form IMM 5386.
Practice Canada interview questions if your filing route includes one.