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Form Guide

IMM 5571 - Request for Processing Family Members under the One-Year Window

Guide generated from official sources when available. Always confirm requirements on the authority’s official site.

It allows eligible individuals to sponsor their family members to become permanent residents. For related guidance, see the [Permanent Residence (Canada)](/en/canada/goals/canada-permanent-residence) page. For related guidance, see the Visit Family (Canada) page.

Written by VisaMind Editorial·Reviewed by Eric Provencio·Founder, VisaMind·Last updated Mar 4, 2026

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Quick answers

Is there a filing fee for IMM 5571?

There is no IRCC filing fee for IMM 5571.

What forms are filed with IMM 5571?

Often filed together: IMM-0008.

What documents do I need for IMM 5571?

You'll need: the current edition of IMM 5571, details matching the main application, supporting documents as listed in the checklist. Review the instructions for complete requirements.

Do I need to file IMM 5571?

You need IMM 5571 if your application package requires it. Complete it together with your main application.

How long does IMM 5571 take to process?

Processing times vary by case type and current workload. Check the official processing times tool for your specific situation. Do not rely on unofficial estimates.

Does filing IMM 5571 grant work authorization or lawful status?

No. Filing IMM 5571 does not by itself grant work authorization or lawful status. It is a supporting/procedural filing and does not create an immigration benefit by itself.

Quick summary

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Who fills it

Submit it with your main application.

When used

When the official instructions indicate this form is required

Where it goes next

Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.

What it must match

Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations

Overview (What is Form IMM 5571?)

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By understanding the requirements and ensuring the accurate completion of the form, applicants can navigate the process more effectively, bringing them one step closer to reuniting with their loved ones in Canada, as described in the Generic Application Form for Canada guide.

First page of IMM 5571 form

First page of IMM 5571 form

Source: IMM 5571 online portal

Context and workflow

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Processing times for IMM 5571 depend on the specific case type and current workload. Always consult the official IRCC processing time tool for the latest updates.

Why this matters

  • Small mismatches inside IMM 5571 (or between IMM 5571 and supporting evidence) can force rework later in processing.
  • This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.

Where it fits in the workflow

  • Central application in the immigration process for this benefit
  • May require supporting documents and evidence
  • Processing leads to a decision on the requested benefit
  • IMM 5571 is commonly filed alongside Form IMM-0008.

Who uses it

The IMM 5571 form is for applicants who are refugees or protected persons in Canada seeking to sponsor their family members under the One-Year Window of Opportunity provisions. To qualify, you may need to provide proof of your status and demonstrate the relationship to the family members you wish to sponsor. Ensure you review the instructions for your specific eligibility category and submit all required documents to the appropriate IRCC office.

When it is used

  • When the official instructions indicate this form is required
  • As part of a complete application package with supporting documents
  • Express-entry — Economic class
  • When supplementing IMM-5257 — IMM 5571 provides additional required information
  • When filing IMM 5571 alongside IMM-0008 (Generic application for the family member)
  • When filing IMM 5571 alongside IMM-1344 (Original sponsorship application)

Requirements snapshot

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  • Creates a record of the application for processing

Failure prevention (What causes Form IMM 5571 rejections?)

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Substantive weaknesses

  • Insufficient supporting evidence
  • Inconsistencies between forms and documents
  • Failure to address all eligibility criteria
  • To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.
  • To avoid insufficient supporting evidence: Verify: insufficient supporting evidence.

What it asks for (What does Form IMM 5571 ask for?)

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  • Details about the family members you wish to sponsor, including their relationship to you and their current status.
  • Proof of your status as a refugee or protected person
  • Full legal name and any other names used
  • UCI (Unique Client Identifier) if applicable
  • Current immigration status and port of entry stamp information
  • Documentation related to: Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate IRCC office
  • Documentation related to: Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence

Sources for this section

IMM 5571 Instructions

What you need (What do you need for Form IMM 5571?)

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  • The current edition of IMM 5571
  • Details matching the main application
  • Supporting documents as listed in the checklist
  • Required signatures
  • The completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate IRCC office.
  • Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.
  • Submitting the form without all required supporting documents.
  • Copy of your filed or approved IMM-5257 (Supplementary travel information)
  • Copy of your filed or approved IMM-0008 (Generic application for the family member)

Checklist (What is the Form IMM 5571 checklist?)

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  • Visit the official IRCC website to download the most recent version of the IMM 5571 form along with its instructions.
  • Review the official IMM 5571 instructions before filing
  • Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
  • Complete all required sections of IMM 5571
  • Ensure that you sign and date the IMM 5571 form, then submit it along with all necessary supporting documents.

Sources for this section

IMM 5571 Instructions

Fees

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There is no IRCC filing fee for Form IMM 5571.

Where to file

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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 for Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident.

Official IMM 5571 page

Form sections (What sections does Form IMM 5571 have?)

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Personal Details

Applicant identification.

  • Full name and date of birth
  • Citizenship and passport information
  • Contact information and address

Application Details

Program-specific information.

  • Category or stream
  • Supporting evidence checklist
  • Required declarations

Supporting Documents

Required attachments.

  • Identity documents
  • Program-specific evidence
  • Translation and certification if required

Key terms

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One-Year Window of Opportunity
A provision allowing refugees and protected persons to sponsor family members within one year of their own status being granted.In this form: It applies to the IMM 5571 form for sponsoring family members.

Strategy tips

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Strategy: Use the document checklist for your program. Missing documents delay processing or result in refusal.
Strategy: Ensure consistency across all forms and documents. Dates and names must match exactly.
Strategy: Download forms from the IRCC website. Check the form date before completing.

Mistake severity

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Mistake typeSeverityHow to avoid
Insufficient supporting evidenceDelayVerify: insufficient supporting evidence.
Inconsistencies between forms and documentsDelayVerify: inconsistencies between forms and documents.
Failure to address all eligibility criteriaDelayVerify: failure to address all eligibility criteria.
To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.DelayVerify: to avoid incomplete or incorrect information: double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions..
Submitting the form without all required supporting documents.DelayVerify: submitting the form without all required supporting documents..
Providing incorrect or inconsistent information about family members.DelayAvoid providing incorrect or inconsistent information about family members..

Examples (What are examples for Form IMM 5571?)

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  • Strong application: Applicant provides complete, accurate information and required evidence.
  • Weak application: Applicant submits IMM 5571 without proof of refugee status, leading to delays in processing.
  • An applicant in the Express-entry category files IMM 5571 as part of their immigration process

Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form IMM 5571?)

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  • 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

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  • If you are asked to submit or update IMM 5571, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.

In-depth guidance

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How to complete this form reliably

Treat IMM 5571 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?"

Scenarios

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An applicant completes the form with accurate information and submits all required supporting documents through the IRCC portal or by mail.

Application accepted. Processing begins. Biometrics or medical may be requested.

Use the document checklist for your program. Missing documents delay processing or result in refusal.

An applicant provides inconsistent information between the form and supporting documents.

Application flagged. May receive procedural fairness letter or refusal for misrepresentation.

Ensure consistency across all forms and documents. Dates and names must match exactly.

An applicant submits an outdated form version.

Application returned or rejected. IRCC only accepts current versions. Form dates are on the bottom of each page.

Download forms from the IRCC website. Check the form date before completing.

Key differentiators

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  • Unlike General family sponsorship forms: Specifically for refugees and protected persons under the One-Year Window of Opportunity provisions.
  • Unlike Form IMM 5257: Application for Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa): Supporting form: Supplementary travel information (General application pathway)
  • Unlike Form IMM 0008: Generic Application Form for Canada: Filed together: Generic application for the family member (General application pathway)
  • Unlike Form IMM 1344: Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking: Original sponsorship application (General application pathway)

Why it matters

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Next steps

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  • Await receipt confirmation from the agency
  • Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
  • Keep copies of all submitted materials

Verification

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This guide is based on official IRCC instructions for IMM 5571 and is updated with any changes to form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official IRCC website.

FAQs

What does filing IMM 5571 actually accomplish?

Documents eligibility for the requested benefit. Review the official IMM 5571 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.

What other forms are typically filed together with IMM 5571?

Review the official IMM 5571 instructions for guidance specific to your immigration category and circumstances. The specific forms required vary by case type. Review the instructions for your particular immigration category to determine which forms must be submitted together.

What are common misconceptions about IMM 5571?

Processing procedures can evolve, so it's essential to consult the official IMM 5571 instructions for detailed guidance tailored to your specific immigration case and circumstances.

What supporting documents do I need for IMM 5571?

Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate IRCC office. Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence. Submitting the form without all required supporting documents.

Who is eligible to file IMM 5571?

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, carefully review the instructions relevant to your specific eligibility category.

When will IMM 5571 be processed and what is the workflow?

Processing timing for IMM 5571 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 5571?

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.

Important

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

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