Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)

Jurisdiction: Country: Canada | Province or State: Federal

The Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP) is a federal immigration document used in Canada when you need more space to list your family members. It supports your main immigration application. You complete it only if your primary form does not have enough room for all your dependants.

This form is not a standalone application. It attaches to your main immigration package. It expands the information you already provided about your family.

If you are applying for permanent residence and have more than five dependants, this form becomes important. Immigration authorities expect full disclosure of all eligible family members. Leaving someone out can delay your file or create serious complications later.

You might feel unsure about who counts as a dependant or whether this form applies to you. That is common. The key is understanding that this document exists to ensure no eligible family member is omitted due to a lack of space.

Accuracy matters. The information you include here must match the details in your main application. Any differences can trigger questions or processing delays.

What is the Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)?

Clear definition

The Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP) is a supplementary federal immigration form used to list extra dependants who cannot fit in the dependant section of the Generic Application Form for Canada. It provides structured fields to enter personal details for each additional family member.

This document collects identifying information. That includes full legal names, dates of birth, places of birth, marital status, and relationship to the principal applicant. It follows the same format and standards as the main application form.

You only complete it if you have more dependants than the main form allows. If your family size fits within the original form, you do not use this document.

Who typically uses this form?

The most common user is the principal applicant applying for permanent residence under a federal immigration stream. This may include economic immigration applicants, family class applicants, or certain humanitarian applicants.

Large families are the usual reason this form is required. For example, a parent with several children must list each one individually, even if some are not accompanying them to Canada.

Blended families may also require it. If you have children from a previous relationship, adopted children, or legally dependent adult children, space can quickly run out on the main form.

In some cases, a dependent child who has their own dependent child can also increase the total number of people who must be declared. This makes the supplementary form necessary.

Why might you need this form?

You need this form when the number of dependants exceeds the limit on your main immigration application. The immigration system requires complete disclosure of all family members, whether they are accompanying you to Canada or not.

Failure to declare a dependant can create long-term immigration consequences. For example, an undeclared family member may not be eligible for future sponsorship.

This form ensures the immigration authority has a complete picture of your family structure. It supports background checks, medical screening requirements, and eligibility assessments.

Providing accurate dependant information also affects processing steps such as medical examinations and security screening. Each listed person may be subject to certain review requirements.

Typical real-life scenarios

• You are applying for permanent residence with six children. The main application only provides space for five dependants. You use this supplementary form to include the sixth child.
• You are a principal applicant with three children, and one of those children has a dependent child of their own. The combined total exceeds the space provided in the main form. The additional form captures the extra family member.
• You are separated from your spouse, and your children live with your former partner. Even if they are not coming to Canada with you, they may still need to be declared. If there are more than the allotted spaces, you complete this form.
• You adopted two children after submitting an earlier immigration profile and are now filing your full application. Your updated family size requires more room than the main form provides. This document allows you to properly include them.

When would you use the Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)?

You use this form at the time you submit your complete permanent residence application. It forms part of your initial filing package when required.

It is typically completed by the principal applicant. Dependants themselves do not complete separate versions of this document unless instructed within the broader application process.

You may also use it when updating your application before a final decision is made, if your family composition changes and you now exceed the number of dependants allowed on the original form.

For example, if you have a child after submitting your application but before approval, and your updated family size exceeds the form’s limits, this document may be used to reflect the change.

This form is tied to federal immigration processing. It is not used for temporary visas such as visitor visas or study permits unless specifically included within a permanent residence stream.

Legal characteristics of Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)

This is a formal government document forming part of a permanent residence application. It must be completed truthfully and consistently with your main forms.

For the form to be accepted, it must be properly completed, signed where required, and submitted in the correct format. Missing information, inconsistent details, or unsigned declarations can result in returned applications or processing delays.

The information provided is treated as part of your official immigration record. It may be reviewed alongside identity documents, birth certificates, passports, and other supporting materials.

A common issue arises when the details on this form do not exactly match the main application form. Differences in spelling, dates, or marital status can raise questions about credibility or completeness.

Another frequent problem is failing to list non-accompanying dependants. Even if a family member will not immigrate with you, they may still need to be declared.

Immigration processes are governed at the federal level in Canada. While provinces have nominee programs, the permanent residence application itself, including this form, is handled under federal authority.

This form does not grant immigration status on its own. It does not create sponsorship rights. It simply records additional family information as part of a broader application.

Is it legally binding?

The form includes a declaration confirming that the information you provide is complete and accurate. When you sign it, you are confirming that the details are truthful to the best of your knowledge.

Providing false or incomplete information can have serious consequences within the immigration process. This is because immigration decisions rely heavily on the accuracy of the facts you declare.

In that sense, the declaration is legally significant. It forms part of your sworn representations to immigration authorities.

However, the form itself is not a contract between you and the government. It does not create obligations beyond your duty to provide truthful information within your application.

How to fill out Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)

Step 1 – Confirm that you need the form

Review your main permanent residence application. Count the total number of dependants you must declare, including both accompanying and non-accompanying family members. If the number exceeds the space available on the main form, you need this supplementary document.

Step 2 – Gather personal information for each additional dependant

Collect each person’s full legal name as shown on official documents. Confirm dates of birth, places of birth, marital status, and current country of residence. Ensure the information matches passports or birth certificates exactly.

Step 3 – Enter the principal applicant’s details

At the top of the form, provide your identifying information as the principal applicant. This connects the additional pages to your main application. Use the same spelling and format as in your primary forms.

Step 4 – Complete the dependant information sections

For each additional dependant, fill in every required field. Include their relationship to you, such as son, daughter, or other eligible dependent relationship. Indicate whether they are accompanying you to Canada or not, if the form requests this detail.

Step 5 – Review for consistency with your main application

Compare the information on this form with your Generic Application Form for Canada. Check names, dates, and relationship descriptions carefully. Even small differences can cause delays.

Step 6 – Verify completeness

Ensure no required fields are left blank unless the form clearly allows it. If a question does not apply, follow the form’s instructions for indicating that it is not applicable. Incomplete forms are commonly returned.

Step 7 – Sign and date the declaration

Read the declaration section carefully. When you sign and date the form, you confirm that the information is accurate and complete. Use the same date format as required in the form instructions.

Step 8 – Attach the form to your application package

Place the completed Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP) with your other immigration forms. Ensure it is included in the correct order within your submission so it is clearly connected to your main application.

Legal terms you might encounter in the Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)

Principal Applicant: This is the main person applying for permanent residence. Your name and unique client details must match exactly what appears on your main application form. Every additional dependant listed on this document is connected to the principal applicant.

Dependant: A dependant is a family member who meets the immigration definition of a dependent child. The form is used when you have more dependants than the space available on your main application. Each dependant listed here must meet eligibility rules and be declared fully and accurately.

Family Name: This is your last name as shown on your passport or official identity document. You must enter it exactly the same way it appears on your travel document. Even small spelling differences can cause processing delays.

Given Name(s): These are your first and middle names. List them in the same order as on your passport. If a dependent does not have a given name on their passport, follow the form instructions carefully to avoid leaving the field blank.

Date of Birth: You must provide the full date of birth in the required format. Make sure the day and month are not reversed. This date must match the supporting identity documents you submit.

Country of Birth: This refers to the country where the dependant was born, not their current nationality. Use the country name as it is officially recognized. If the country name has changed since birth, use the current official name unless the form instructs otherwise.

Marital Status: You must indicate whether the dependant is single, married, divorced, widowed, or in another recognized status. This affects how immigration authorities assess family composition. If the status has recently changed, ensure your information is up to date.

Declaration: The declaration is the statement at the end of the form confirming that all information provided is true and complete. By signing, you confirm you understand the legal consequences of giving false or incomplete information.

Signature: The signature confirms that the principal applicant reviewed and approved the information. Depending on the submission method, this may be a handwritten or validated electronic signature. An unsigned form is considered incomplete.

UCI (Unique Client Identifier): This is a personal reference number assigned by immigration authorities. If you have one, it must match the number used in your main application. Entering the wrong UCI can cause confusion or misfiled documents.

FAQs

Do I need to complete Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP) if I have only one child?

No. You only use this form if you have more dependants than the number of spaces available on your main application form. If all your dependants fit within the original form, you do not need to add this document. Always review the number of dependants you already listed before deciding to include it.

What if I forgot to list a dependant in my original application?

You must update your application as soon as possible. Complete this document with the missing dependant’s full details and follow the submission instructions provided for updating your file. Do not wait for immigration authorities to discover the omission, because undeclared family members can create serious future consequences.

How do I know if my child qualifies as a dependant?

You must check the current definition of a dependent child used in immigration processing. This usually depends on age, marital status, and financial dependency. When completing this form, confirm that each listed child meets those criteria at the time of submission.

What if the information on this form does not exactly match my passport?

The information on this document must match the official identity documents you provide. If there is a discrepancy, correct the form before submission. Inconsistent names or dates of birth can delay processing and may require you to submit additional explanations.

Who signs this form?

The principal applicant signs the declaration section. If a dependant is 18 years of age or older, check whether they must also sign certain parts of the overall application package. An unsigned form will not be accepted as complete.

Can I submit this form after I have already sent my main application?

Yes, but you must follow the process for submitting additional documents to your existing file. Clearly reference your application number and personal details so the document is matched correctly. Do not send duplicate copies unless specifically requested.

What happens if I make a mistake after submitting the form?

If you discover an error, prepare a corrected version of this form and submit it following the instructions for updating your application. Explain what was incorrect and provide accurate information. Acting quickly reduces the risk of misunderstandings.

Will adding a dependant change my processing time?

It can. Each additional dependant may require background checks, medical examinations, or document review. Make sure all required supporting documents are complete and consistent to avoid unnecessary delays.

Checklist: Before, During, and After Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)

Before

• Confirm that you have more dependants than the spaces available on your main application.
• Review the current definition of a dependent child to ensure eligibility.
• Gather passports or official identity documents for each additional dependant.
• Verify the correct spelling of names and the accurate dates of birth.
• Locate your application number and UCI, if already assigned.
• Check marital status and current country of residence for each dependant.
• Ensure you understand who must sign the form.
• Prepare translations for any document not in English or French.

During

• Enter the principal applicant’s details exactly as shown on the main application.
• Complete one section per additional dependant without skipping required fields.
• Double-check spelling against passports before moving to the next entry.
• Use consistent date formats throughout the document.
• Do not leave mandatory fields blank unless instructed.
• Review each page for typing errors or reversed numbers.
• Confirm that the number of dependants listed matches your total family count.
• Read the declaration carefully before signing.

After

• Make a complete copy of the signed form for your records.
• Attach the form to your main application package if submitting together.
• If submitting separately, clearly reference your application number.
• Confirm that all required supporting documents are included.
• Monitor your application account or communication method for confirmation.
• Respond promptly to any request for additional information.
• Store digital and paper copies in a secure place.
• Update your records if family circumstances change again.

Common mistakes to avoid with Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)

• Mistake: Listing a child who does not meet the definition of a dependant because you assume all children qualify, which can lead to processing delays or refusal; do not forget to verify age and marital status rules before including them.
• Mistake: Spelling a dependant’s name differently from their passport due to typing quickly, which can cause identity verification issues; do not forget to copy names exactly as shown on official documents.
• Mistake: Reversing the day and month in the date of birth because of unfamiliar date formats, which may trigger document requests; do not forget to follow the required format carefully.
• Mistake: Forgetting to sign the declaration because you focused only on completing the fields, which results in the form being considered incomplete; do not forget to review the final page for signature lines.
• Mistake: Failing to reference your application number when submitting the form later, which can lead to misfiled documents; do not forget to clearly identify your file details.
• Mistake: Omitting a dependent intentionally or unintentionally due to family complexity, which can create serious immigration consequences later; do not forget that all eligible family members must be declared.
• Mistake: Submitting inconsistent information between this form and the main application because you updated one document but not the other, which can raise credibility concerns; do not forget to review both side by side before sending.

What to do after filling out Additional Dependants or Declaration Form (IMM 0008 DEP)

Once you complete the form, pause before submitting it. A careful review now can prevent months of delay later. Compare every entry with the passports and identity documents of each dependant.

• Step 1: Re-read each dependant’s section slowly and confirm spelling, dates, and country information.
• Step 2: Confirm that the total number of dependants in your full application package is accurate and consistent across all forms.
• Step 3: Review the declaration and ensure the correct person signs and dates the form.
• Step 4: Make a clear digital copy and, if applicable, a paper copy for your records.
• Step 5: Attach the form to your complete application package if you have not yet submitted it.
• Step 6: If your main application was already submitted, follow the official process for uploading or mailing additional documents and clearly reference your file number.
• Step 7: Check that any required supporting documents for new dependants, such as identity documents or translations, are included.
• Step 8: Monitor your application status through the communication method you selected, such as an online account or email.
• Step 9: Respond promptly if immigration authorities request clarification or updated information.
• Step 10: Keep your contact details current in case officials need to reach you about your dependants.

Stay organized. Keep all copies together with your immigration records. If your family situation changes again, such as a birth, adoption, or change in marital status, update your application as soon as possible. Clear, complete, and consistent information helps your application move forward without unnecessary obstacles.