Canadian Immigration | Practical Guide

From Visitor to Permanent Resident: The TRV to H&C to PR Pathway in Canada

By Radmila Lim, RCIC (R414423) — Lawseph & Associates Inc.


What is the TRV → H&C → PR Pathway?

The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) to Permanent Residence (PR) pathway allows certain individuals to transition from being a visitor in Canada to eventually securing permanent residency through an H&C application. This route is designed for people who may not qualify for other immigration programs but face compelling humanitarian circumstances that make Canada the best place for them to remain long-term.

What it is not: This is not a quick or guaranteed path to PR. Unlike Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which are based on points, education, or work experience, the H&C pathway relies on demonstrating hardship, establishment, and humanitarian grounds.

How TRV → H&C → PR Differs from Other Applications

  • Express Entry: Focuses on skilled workers with high CRS scores; competitive and points-driven. H&C does not require CRS points.
  • PNP: Tied to provincial labour needs. H&C is based on humanitarian hardship and establishment in Canada.
  • Spousal Sponsorship: Relies on Canadian family sponsorship. H&C is for individuals without family sponsorship pathways.

Real-Life Motivation Example

Maria, a 46-year-old caregiver from the Philippines, arrives in Canada on a TRV to visit relatives. During her stay, she develops strong ties: volunteering, working within her community, and supporting dependents abroad. She cannot qualify for Express Entry due to age and CRS score, and her relatives cannot sponsor her. With our guidance, Maria files an H&C application, highlighting her establishment in Canada and the hardship she and her family would face if forced to leave. She is eventually approved for PR and takes her final journey from visitor to permanent Canadian resident—achieving stability and security in Canada.

Why Hire Lawseph & Associates Inc.?

At Lawseph, our RCIC full application processing service focuses on risk reduction. Many TRV → H&C → PR applications are refused due to missing documents, inconsistencies, or weak arguments. With us, you benefit from:

  • Thorough review of all supporting documents
  • Preparation of a compelling H&C submission letter
  • Step-by-step guidance from TRV entry to PR approval
  • Legal representation by licensed RCIC professionals

Associated Costs & Processing Times

  • TRV Government Fees: CAD $100 (application) + CAD $85 (biometrics)
  • H&C PR Application Fee: CAD $1,085 (principal applicant)
  • Medical Exam: CAD $200–$350
  • RCIC Legal Fees: Starting at CAD $4,500 (TRV + H&C + PR full processing)
  • Processing Times: TRV: 3–6 months, H&C: 24–36 months, PR finalization: 6–12 months

Eligibility & Admissibility Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate:

  • Strong establishment in Canada (employment, community ties, volunteering)
  • Hardship or adverse conditions if forced to return home
  • Best interests of any children involved
  • Clean criminal and security record
  • Medical admissibility

FAQs

  • Q: Can I apply for H&C from outside Canada?
    A: No, H&C applications are only available to applicants inside Canada.
  • Q: Does an H&C application guarantee I can stay in Canada?
    A: No, but filing may allow you to remain in Canada while your case is being reviewed.
  • Q: Can my family be included?
    A: Yes, dependents can be included, but eligibility must be reviewed case by case.
  • Q: Is this faster than Express Entry?
    A: No, H&C is usually much longer, but it is sometimes the only viable pathway.
  • Q: What if my TRV is refused?
    A: We can explore restoration, reconsideration, or alternative immigration streams.

Further Reading

Next Steps: Begin Your TRV → H&C → PR Journey

The journey from visitor to permanent resident in Canada requires expertise, precision, and strong representation. At Lawseph & Associates Inc., we are here to help you every step of the way.

Apply for TRV-H&C with Expert Guidance

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