Moving Abroad

IRCC Secure Account: Which Account You Need and What You Can Do With It

3 min read

In this guide
  1. Quick answer
  2. Which applications do you submit in the IRCC secure account?
  3. What can you track in the account?
  4. Can you upload documents?
  5. Common mistakes
  6. FAQ
    1. Can I apply for a study permit in this account?
    2. Do I need the account for an eTA?
  7. Key takeaways
  8. Related guides
  9. Sources

The IRCC secure account is the online account Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada uses for many applications. This guide explains which applications belong in it, what you can do after you sign in and when you need a different account, based on the information published on canada.ca.

Quick answer

  • You apply in the IRCC secure account for work permits, Express Entry, International Experience Canada, extensions of work and study permits and a few other services.
  • You can check the status of many applications and upload documents only when IRCC asks for them.
  • Some applications use a different account, so check before you create anything.

Which applications do you submit in the IRCC secure account?

IRCC lists these as applications you apply for in this account: work permits, Express Entry (skilled workers), International Experience Canada, extending work and study permits, visitor records, changing your school, changing the conditions on a work permit, Canadian citizenship certificates, searches of citizenship records and the Interim Federal Health Program.

Depending on your situation you might also use it for study permits and for some visitor visas. If your application is not listed, follow the instructions in the program section for that application.

What can you track in the account?

You can check the status of applications you submitted in the account. After you link them, you can also check others, including family sponsorship, Express Entry, the permanent resident card, provincial nominee applications, study permit applications, visitor visas and work permit extensions. The list also includes the electronic travel authorization (eTA).

Can you upload documents?

Yes, but only if IRCC asks for a document. For eTA applications, that applies only if IRCC emails you about submitting documents.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming every Canadian application uses one account. IRCC says some applications need a different one.
  • Uploading documents nobody requested.
  • Forgetting that an application submitted elsewhere must be linked before it appears in your account.
  • Paying an unlicensed helper. IRCC says an agent, consultant, lawyer or Quebec notary must be licensed to represent you or advise you.

FAQ

Can I apply for a study permit in this account?

Possibly. IRCC says you might need it, depending on your situation. Read the study permit instructions first. Our study permit guide covers the documents.

Do I need the account for an eTA?

You can check an eTA in the account, but eTA documents are only uploaded when IRCC emails you. See the Canada eTA guide.

Key takeaways

  • Check IRCC’s list before creating an account.
  • Link older applications to see their status.
  • Only upload what IRCC requests.

Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not legal advice. Confirm details with the official source before applying.

Sources

  • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (canada.ca): IRCC secure account

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