Canada

How to prepare documents for IRCC and Express Entry

IRCC’s portal gives you one upload slot per document type. If a document has several pages — or you have several documents for one slot — combine them into one file.

Upload rules at a glance

Checked Oct 2026 · always confirm on the upload screen
File types
PDF, JPG, PNG, DOC
Size per file
Usually 4 MB
One file per
Upload slot
Not in English or French?
Add a certified translation

Step by step

  1. 1Match documents to slotsCheck the document checklist in your account. Each item is one upload.
  2. 2Combine what shares a slotSeveral bank letters for proof of funds? Merge them into one PDF.Merge
  3. 3Fit under 4 MBCompress large scans. Keep text readable.Compress
  4. 4Check orientationRotate sideways pages before you upload.Rotate

Name files so an officer knows what they are

Use names that match the slot so you can confirm each upload at a glance.

  • Passport_All-Pages.pdf
  • Proof-of-Funds_Bank-Letters.pdf
  • Language-Test_Results.pdf
  • Police-Certificate_Country.pdf

Common mistakes

  • Uploading only the first page of a multi-page document.
  • Files over the size limit, rejected at upload.
  • Leaving the translator’s declaration out of the file.
  • Blurry phone photos instead of scans.

Questions, answered

What if I have more documents than slots?

Combine related documents into one PDF for that slot, with the most important one first.

Will compression make scans unreadable?

Balanced compression keeps text sharp for most scans. Use Strong only if you’re still over the limit.

Can I upload HEIC photos?

Convert them to PDF first.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change — check the official instructions for your form or portal before you submit.

Not sure which documents your filing needs?Ask an immigration expert →