On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form IMM 0008 DEP?)
- Context and workflow
- Failure prevention (What causes Form IMM 0008 DEP rejections?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form IMM 0008 DEP?)
- Checklist (What is the Form IMM 0008 DEP checklist?)
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form IMM 0008 DEP have?)
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form IMM 0008 DEP?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form IMM 0008 DEP?)
- Edge cases and variations
- In-depth guidance
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#Submit it with your main application.
EXPRESS-ENTRY: Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker)
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 0008 DEP?)
#The IMM 0008 DEP (Additional Dependants / Declaration Form) is essential for declaring additional family members not included in the main application form for immigration to Canada. This form must be completed by the principal applicant on behalf of each accompanying dependant not listed in the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008). It is crucial to follow the step-by-step instructions and ensure all required sections are completed, signed, and submitted with the necessary evidence.
Failure to properly complete the form, including signing and dating it, will result in the application being returned.

First page of IMM 0008 DEP form
Source: IMM 0008 DEP PDF
Context and workflow
#Used during the initial application submission to provide complete family information, as described in the Visit Family (Canada) guide.
Why this matters
- This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
- Background/timeline forms are used to assess continuity; gaps or overlaps can trigger clarification requests.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Processing time for IMM 0008 DEP varies by case type and current workload — always check the official IRCC processing time tool.
- Supporting document for the main immigration application.
- Used during the initial application submission to provide complete family information.
- IMM 0008 DEP is commonly filed alongside Form IMM-0008, Form IMM-5669, Form IMM-5406.
Who uses it
The IMM 0008 DEP form is required for declaring additional dependants not included in the main application form for immigration to Canada. This form must be completed by the principal applicant on behalf of each additional dependant, such as a spouse or children, who are not listed on the Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008). If you have more than five dependants, ensure each additional dependant is documented using this form. Note that if you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the form.
When it is used
- EXPRESS-ENTRY: Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker)
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Failure prevention (What causes Form IMM 0008 DEP rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Not signing and dating the form.
- Omitting required fields.
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Supporting documents are organized and relevant
- To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.
- To avoid supporting documents are organized and relevant: Verify: supporting documents are organized and relevant.
- To avoid to avoid incomplete or incorrect information: double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.: Verify: to avoid incomplete or incorrect information: double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions..
- To avoid not signing and dating the form.: Signing and dating the form..
What you need (What do you need for Form IMM 0008 DEP?)
#- The current edition of IMM 0008 DEP
- Details matching the main application
- Supporting documents as listed in the checklist
- Required signatures
- Adobe Acrobat Reader version 10 or higher
- Complete all required sections, sign, and submit with required evidence.
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Checklist (What is the Form IMM 0008 DEP checklist?)
#- Obtain the latest IMM 0008 DEP form and its accompanying instructions directly from the official IRCC website.
- Review the official IMM 0008 DEP instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of IMM 0008 DEP
- Confirm the form is signed and dated in all required fields
- Ensure you sign and date the IMM 0008 DEP form, then submit it along with all necessary supporting documentation.
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 Generic Application Form for Canada.
Fees
#There is no IRCC filing fee for Form IMM 0008 DEP.
Form sections (What sections does Form IMM 0008 DEP have?)
#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
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Supporting documents are organized and relevant | Delay | Verify: supporting documents are organized and relevant. |
| To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions. | Delay | Verify: to avoid incomplete or incorrect information: double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.. |
| Not signing and dating the form. | Delay | Signing and dating the form.. |
| Omitting required fields. | Delay | Include required fields.. |
| Ensure form edition is current | Delay | Verify: ensure form edition is current. |
| Failure to sign and date the form will result in the application being returned. | Delay | Verify: failure to sign and date the form will result in the application being returned.. |
Examples (What are examples for Form IMM 0008 DEP?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required dependant details and signatures, ensuring a smooth processing of their application.
- Scenario: A software engineer submitted their application with all supporting documents, including the Additional Dependants/Declaration Form for their children. The case was approved within the standard timeline. Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays, ensuring all dependants are properly documented.
- Weak application: An applicant failed to include all necessary personal details for their additional dependants, resulting in a delay as IRCC requested further information.
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Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form IMM 0008 DEP?)
#- 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
#- If you are asked to submit or update IMM 0008 DEP, 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 0008 DEP 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?"
Background and timeline sections
Schedule/background forms are used to capture histories that must be gap-free. Build a master timeline first, then copy it into the form. If you had periods of unemployment, travel, or caregiving, include them as explicit entries rather than leaving blanks.
Scenarios
#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
#- Unlike Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008): Captures information for additional dependants not included in the main application.
- Unlike Form IMM 0008: Generic Application Form for Canada: Filed together: Use when you have more dependants than fit on IMM 0008 (Permanent residence pathway)
- Unlike Form IMM 5669: Schedule A: Background / Declaration Form: Filed together: Background declaration for each dependant (Permanent residence pathway)
- Unlike Form IMM 5406: Additional Family Information: Filed together: Additional family information for dependants (Permanent residence pathway)
Why it matters
#The form must be completed by the principal applicant for each additional dependant.
Why it matters: Ensures that all dependants are included in the immigration process, preventing potential issues with incomplete applications.
The form requires consent for sharing information with prospective employers.
Why it matters: This can facilitate employment opportunities for dependants once they arrive in Canada.
The form must be signed and dated to be considered complete.
Why it matters: Unsigned forms will be returned, causing delays in processing.
Next steps
#- Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) from IRCC.
- Review of the application and supporting documents by IRCC.
- Possible request for additional information if any details are missing or unclear.
- Decision on the application, which may include approval, denial, or request for further action.
- If approved, proceed to next steps such as biometrics or medical exams if applicable.
Verification
#This guide is based on official IRCC instructions for the IMM 0008 DEP and is updated with changes in form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official IRCC website.
FAQs
Does IMM 0008 DEP guarantee approval of my case?
No. The decision depends on whether all requirements are met. Review the official IMM 0008 DEP instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
Do I need to file IMM 0008 DEP if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Consult the official instructions to determine the appropriate form or process for your update. For comprehensive guidance tailored to your specific immigration case and circumstances, review the official IMM 0008 DEP instructions.
Who must sign the IMM 0008 DEP form if the principal applicant is under 18?
If the principal applicant is younger than 18, the form must be signed by one of their parents or a legal guardian.
What should I do if I forgot to include a dependant on my initial IMM 0008 form?
To declare any additional dependants not covered in your initial application, you may need to complete and submit the IMM 0008 DEP form.
When will IMM 0008 DEP be processed and what is the workflow?
Processing timing for IMM 0008 DEP 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 0008 DEP?
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
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