Applications for permanent residence from diplomatic, consular and official personnel

Individuals who are accredited foreign representatives to Canada (for example, diplomatic, consular or official personnel) and their accredited family members can’t become permanent residents while they are still accredited.

Their privileges and accredited status must have ended before they may be issued a visa or confirmation of permanent residence.

The following guidance applies to officers who are processing applications for permanent residence from foreign nationals who are, or who the officer thinks may be, accredited foreign representatives to Canada as per paragraph 190(2)(a) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) or accredited family members of foreign representatives to Canada. Officers should not finalize the applications or issue visas until they are satisfied, based on documentary evidence, that the applicants are no longer accredited.

Officers must notify Global Affairs Canada’s (GAC’s) Office of Protocol (XDC) twice:

1. once an application has been received to notify GAC’s XDC that the foreign national has made an application for permanent residence, and request that XDC verify the accreditation of the applicant(s) and confirm whether their accredited status has ended
2. before finalization and include the applicant’s name and position, and the name of the foreign mission or international organization, and provide proof that the accreditation has ended (if the applicant is in a position to provide this) or a statement that the assignment has ended (or will end, if this is prospective)