On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form IMM 5389?)
- Context and workflow
- Requirements snapshot
- Failure prevention (What causes Form IMM 5389 rejections?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form IMM 5389?)
- Checklist (What is the Form IMM 5389 checklist?)
- Where to file
- Fees
- Strategy tips
- Examples (What are examples for Form IMM 5389?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form IMM 5389?)
- Edge cases and variations
- In-depth guidance
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
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 5389?)
#By adhering to the checklist and providing comprehensive documentation, sponsors can facilitate a more efficient review process by IRCC, ultimately supporting their family members' transition to becoming permanent residents of Canada, as described in the International Experience Canada (IEC) guide, as described in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) guide.

First page of IMM 5389 form
Source: IMM 5389 online portal
Context and workflow
#Ensure all necessary documents are included before submitting to IRCC.
Why this matters
- This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
- A missing or incorrect checklist item can cause the package to be treated as incomplete.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Processing time for IMM 5389 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official IRCC processing time tool.
- Initiating the sponsorship process for family members.
- Ensuring all necessary documents are included before submission to IRCC.
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
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Requirements snapshot
#- To help IRCC efficiently process applications by ensuring completeness from the start.
Failure prevention (What causes Form IMM 5389 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
- Insufficient proof of financial support by the sponsor.
What you need (What do you need for Form IMM 5389?)
#- The current edition of IMM 5389
- Details matching the main application
- Supporting documents as listed in the checklist
- Required signatures
- Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.
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Checklist (What is the Form IMM 5389 checklist?)
#- Visit the official IRCC website to download the latest version of the IMM 5389 form and its accompanying instructions.
- Review the official IMM 5389 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of IMM 5389
- Ensure you sign and date the IMM 5389 form, then submit it along with all necessary supporting documents.
Sources for this section
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 Study Permit.
Fees
#There is no IRCC filing fee for Form IMM 5389.
Strategy tips
#Examples (What are examples for Form IMM 5389?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
- Common weakness: Sponsor forgets to sign; form returned, causing delay.
- Strong application: A sponsor provides complete financial documentation and a clear explanation of the relationship, resulting in a smooth processing of the application.
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Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form IMM 5389?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- 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
Edge cases and variations
#- Different checklists may apply based on where you apply (inside vs. outside the country).
- Some sponsorship types require a co-signer or additional financial evaluation.
- If you are asked to submit or update IMM 5389, 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 5389 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 Form IMM 1344: Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking: Supporting form: Checklist for sponsored adult children (Family-based immigration pathway)
- Unlike Form IMM 0002: Document Checklist: Sponsorship Agreement Holders (SAH): Part of family-based immigration process
Next steps
#- Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC.
- Attend biometrics collection appointment if required.
- IRCC reviews the application for completeness and accuracy.
- Receive notice of action regarding the application status.
- If approved, proceed to PR Card issuance and delivery.
Verification
#This guide is based on official IRCC instructions for IMM 5389 and is updated with any changes to form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official IRCC website.
Resources
#FAQs
Does IMM 5389 guarantee approval of my case?
No. The decision depends on whether all requirements are met. Review the official IMM 5389 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
What happens if I make an error on IMM 5389 or need to correct something after filing?
Review the official IMM 5389 instructions for how to correct or amend a submission. Generally, forms should be filed according to the sequence outlined in the official instructions for your immigration category.
Do I need to file IMM 5389 if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Check the official instructions to see which form or process applies to your type of update. Review the official IMM 5389 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
Who is eligible to file IMM 5389?
You may have the opportunity to sponsor your family members to become permanent residents, allowing them to live, study, and work in Canada. Before you begin, it is crucial to review the instructions tailored to your specific eligibility category.
When will IMM 5389 be processed and what is the workflow?
Processing timing for IMM 5389 varies depending on the filing category, processing location, and current application volume. Standard processing can range from a few weeks to several months. Before submitting, check the official IRCC processing times tool for the most current estimates. After filing, monitor your case status and consider whether expedited options are available.
What are common mistakes when filing IMM 5389?
Common mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, missing required signatures, paying incorrect fees, and failing to include all required supporting documents. Even minor errors can cause significant delays or outright rejection of your application. Double-check every section, verify fee amounts on the official IRCC schedule, and review the instructions thoroughly before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Use Find My Visa to get a personalized checklist with official sources and deadlines.
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