Overview
#IMM 5438 is the form titled 'Request for a Refugee Profile.' It is part of the application package for those looking to sponsor refugees. Use the current version of this form and follow the specific checklist for your situation to complete it accurately.
IRCC reviews IMM 5438 alongside the relevant program checklist and supporting documents. Officers typically look for internal consistency (names, dates, identifiers, and timelines) and whether the form’s details match the evidence in the rest of the package.
Context & workflow
#This form collects information about the type of family or individual you wish to sponsor, details about your sponsoring group, and information about your community.
Why this matters
- Completing this form accurately is important for the success of your application.
- Providing consistent information helps avoid delays in processing.
Who uses it
Applicants required to complete this form for their application package.
When it is used
- When the checklist for your program/package lists this form.
Failure prevention (how to avoid rework and returns)
#Key cross-checks to do before you submit
- Country of origin
- Family size and composition
- Name of group and contact information
- Settlement services available in the community
- Language training available
Common issues that cause rework or refusal
- Missing required information about the family or individual you wish to sponsor.
- Inconsistent details across forms and documents.
Common pitfalls
- Using an outdated version of the form.
- Inconsistent details across forms and documents.
Requirements snapshot
#- Current version of IMM 5438.
- Details on the type of sponsorship you are interested in.
- Information about your community's settlement services.
- Contact information for your sponsoring group.
- Details on the family size and composition of the individual you wish to sponsor.
Form sections
#Reset Form
Use this section to clear the form if needed.
Print Form
Use this section to print the completed form.
REQUEST FOR A REFUGEE PROFILE
This section gathers essential information for your application.
FOR CIC USE ONLY
This section is reserved for internal processing.
B - TYPE OF FAMILY/INDIVIDUAL YOU WISH TO SPONSOR
Provide details about the individual or family you want to sponsor.
C - INFORMATION ON SPONSORING GROUP
Include information about your group and its capabilities.
D - INFORMATION ON YOUR COMMUNITY
Share details about the community where the sponsored individual will settle.
What it asks for
#- REQUEST FOR A REFUGEE PROFILE
- A - TYPE OF SPONSORSHIP/CASE YOUR GROUP IS INTERESTED IN (you may select more than one)
- Visa office-referred
- Urgent protection
- Country of origin
- Family size and composition
- C - INFORMATION ON SPONSORING GROUP
- Name of group and contact information
- Group composition
What you need before you start
#- The current form downloaded from the official IRCC form page.
- Accurate source documents you will copy from.
- Details about the family size and composition of the individual you wish to sponsor.
- Information on your sponsoring group, including contact details.
- Community profile information (rural, urban).
Checklist
#- Download the current IMM 5438 from the official IRCC form page.
- Save the PDF locally and open it in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
- Complete the form by copying details from your source documents.
- Cross-check repeated details across your package for consistency.
- Follow the program checklist for submission format and supporting documents.
FAQs
Where do I download IMM 5438?
Use the official IRCC form page and confirm you are using the current version.
Is IMM 5438 required for everyone?
Only if your program checklist or the program authorities instructions require it for your case.
Do I need to sign by hand?
Follow the form instructions. Some IRCC PDF forms require a printed, handwritten signature.
Can I submit an old version?
No. IRCC can return outdated forms. Always use the latest version.
Do I need translations?
Yes, if any supporting documents are not in English or French.
What happens after IMM 5438?
It becomes part of your application package and is reviewed with the rest of your evidence.
What if IRCC asks for additional documents?
IRCC may request additional documents or clarification during processing. Respond by the deadline and keep any new information consistent with the rest of your package.
Can I reuse documents from a previous application?
Sometimes, but treat your package as current-state evidence. Re-verify dates, status, addresses, finances, and supporting documents so they match your current situation and the current checklist.
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.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
Find my visa