{"id":23875,"date":"2026-06-22T03:46:33","date_gmt":"2026-06-22T03:46:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/?page_id=23875"},"modified":"2026-06-22T03:47:06","modified_gmt":"2026-06-22T03:47:06","slug":"humanitarian-and-companionate-hc","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/humanitarian-and-companionate-hc\/","title":{"rendered":"Humanitarian and Companionate (H&#038;C)"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"23875\" class=\"elementor elementor-23875\" data-elementor-post-type=\"page\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-c06b107 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default sc_fly_static\" data-id=\"c06b107\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-extended\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-0d42ce1 sc_inner_width_none sc_content_align_inherit sc_layouts_column_icons_position_left sc_fly_static\" data-id=\"0d42ce1\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f1d852a sc_fly_static elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"f1d852a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<!-- ===== BroadGate \u2014 Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) Grounds page widget. Paste into an Elementor HTML element ===== -->\r\n<style>\r\n  @import url('https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Fraunces:opsz,wght@9..144,500;9..144,600;9..144,700&family=Outfit:wght@400;500;600&display=swap');\r\n\r\n  .bghc{\r\n    --blue:#2b5cab;\r\n    --blue-dark:#1f4480;\r\n    --blue-deep:#173a73;\r\n    --red:#e41c23;\r\n    --ink:#585859;\r\n    --paper:#ffffff;\r\n    --line:#e7ecf4;\r\n    --soft:#f4f7fc;\r\n    font-family:'Outfit',system-ui,sans-serif;\r\n    color:var(--ink);\r\n    line-height:1.6;\r\n    --maxw:1080px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc *{ box-sizing:border-box; }\r\n  .bghc__wrap{ max-width:var(--maxw); margin:0 auto; padding:0 clamp(18px,4vw,28px); }\r\n\r\n  \/* ===== Section header ===== *\/\r\n  .bghc__intro{\r\n    position:relative;\r\n    \/* inset from the page edges so the rounded card + shadow can breathe *\/\r\n    max-width:1180px;\r\n    margin:clamp(20px,3vw,34px) auto 0;\r\n    border-radius:24px;\r\n    background:\r\n      radial-gradient(120% 150% at 88% 0%, rgba(120,165,225,0.40) 0%, rgba(120,165,225,0) 55%),\r\n      radial-gradient(90% 120% at 10% 100%, rgba(23,58,115,0.55) 0%, rgba(23,58,115,0) 60%),\r\n      linear-gradient(150deg, var(--blue-deep) 0%, var(--blue) 60%, var(--blue-dark) 100%);\r\n    color:#fff;\r\n    padding:clamp(48px,7vw,84px) clamp(28px,5vw,64px) clamp(60px,8vw,96px);\r\n    overflow:hidden;\r\n    isolation:isolate;\r\n    \/* layered shadow: soft ambient + tight contact + colored glow = premium depth *\/\r\n    box-shadow:\r\n      0 2px 6px rgba(15,40,85,0.20),\r\n      0 18px 40px rgba(15,40,85,0.28),\r\n      0 40px 80px rgba(20,50,100,0.30);\r\n    \/* faint highlight ring so the card edge catches light *\/\r\n    border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.10);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__intro::after{\r\n    content:\"\";\r\n    position:absolute;\r\n    bottom:-220px; left:-130px;\r\n    width:440px; height:440px;\r\n    border:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12);\r\n    border-radius:50%;\r\n    z-index:0;\r\n    animation:bghcRingIn 1.1s .15s ease both;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__intro::before{\r\n    content:\"\";\r\n    position:absolute;\r\n    top:-130px; right:-120px;\r\n    width:360px; height:360px;\r\n    border:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.16);\r\n    border-radius:50%;\r\n    z-index:0;\r\n    animation:bghcRingIn 1.1s ease both, bghcFloat 10s ease-in-out 1.4s infinite;\r\n  }\r\n  \/* top-edge specular highlight for glassy realism *\/\r\n  .bghc__intro-sheen{\r\n    position:absolute; inset:0; z-index:0; pointer-events:none; border-radius:inherit;\r\n    background:linear-gradient(180deg, rgba(255,255,255,0.18) 0%, rgba(255,255,255,0) 22%);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__grid-tex{\r\n    position:absolute; inset:0; z-index:0; pointer-events:none;\r\n    background-image:radial-gradient(rgba(255,255,255,0.16) 1px, transparent 1.4px);\r\n    background-size:28px 28px;\r\n    -webkit-mask-image:radial-gradient(120% 100% at 30% 20%, #000 0%, transparent 72%);\r\n    mask-image:radial-gradient(120% 100% at 30% 20%, #000 0%, transparent 72%);\r\n    opacity:.4;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__intro .bghc__wrap{ position:relative; z-index:2; padding:0; max-width:none; }\r\n\r\n  .bghc__eyebrow{\r\n    display:inline-flex; align-items:center; gap:9px;\r\n    font-size:13px; font-weight:600; letter-spacing:.16em; text-transform:uppercase;\r\n    color:rgba(255,255,255,0.9); margin:0 0 18px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__eyebrow::before{\r\n    content:\"\"; width:26px; height:2px; background:var(--red); display:inline-block;\r\n    transform:scaleX(0); transform-origin:left center;\r\n    animation:bghcLine .8s .4s cubic-bezier(.2,.7,.2,1) forwards;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__title{\r\n    font-family:'Fraunces',Georgia,serif; font-weight:600;\r\n    font-size:clamp(30px,4.6vw,52px); line-height:1.08; letter-spacing:-0.01em;\r\n    margin:0 0 18px; color:#fff;\r\n    text-shadow:0 2px 20px rgba(10,30,70,0.35);\r\n    animation:bghcRise .7s .15s cubic-bezier(.2,.7,.2,1) both;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__title .it{ font-style:italic; color:#ffd2d4; }\r\n  .bghc__lede{\r\n    max-width:62ch; font-size:clamp(15px,1.4vw,18px);\r\n    color:rgba(255,255,255,0.88); margin:0;\r\n    animation:bghcRise .7s .3s cubic-bezier(.2,.7,.2,1) both;\r\n  }\r\n\r\n  \/* ===== Body shell ===== *\/\r\n  .bghc__body{ background:var(--paper); padding:clamp(40px,6vw,72px) 0; }\r\n\r\n  \/* ===== Table of contents ===== *\/\r\n  .bghc__toc{\r\n    background:var(--soft);\r\n    border:1px solid var(--line);\r\n    border-radius:16px;\r\n    padding:clamp(22px,3vw,30px);\r\n    margin:0 0 clamp(40px,6vw,64px);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__toc h2{\r\n    font-family:'Fraunces',Georgia,serif; font-weight:600; font-size:20px;\r\n    color:var(--blue-dark); margin:0 0 18px; letter-spacing:-0.01em;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__toc ol{\r\n    list-style:none; margin:0; padding:0;\r\n    display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit,minmax(230px,1fr)); gap:8px;\r\n    counter-reset:toc;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__toc a{\r\n    counter-increment:toc;\r\n    display:flex; align-items:center; gap:12px;\r\n    text-decoration:none; color:var(--ink);\r\n    padding:11px 14px; border-radius:10px;\r\n    font-weight:500; font-size:15px;\r\n    transition:background .2s ease, color .2s ease, transform .2s ease;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__toc a::before{\r\n    content:counter(toc,decimal-leading-zero);\r\n    font-family:'Fraunces',Georgia,serif; font-weight:600; font-size:13px;\r\n    color:var(--red); min-width:24px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__toc a:hover{\r\n    background:#fff; color:var(--blue-dark);\r\n    transform:translateX(3px);\r\n    box-shadow:0 6px 16px rgba(20,50,100,0.08);\r\n  }\r\n\r\n  \/* ===== Content blocks ===== *\/\r\n  .bghc__sec{ scroll-margin-top:90px; margin:0 0 clamp(40px,6vw,60px); }\r\n  .bghc__sec:last-child{ margin-bottom:0; }\r\n  .bghc__h{\r\n    font-family:'Fraunces',Georgia,serif; font-weight:600;\r\n    font-size:clamp(23px,2.8vw,32px); line-height:1.18; letter-spacing:-0.01em;\r\n    color:var(--blue-dark); margin:0 0 8px;\r\n    display:flex; align-items:baseline; gap:14px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__h .num{\r\n    font-size:14px; color:var(--red); font-weight:600;\r\n    letter-spacing:.04em; flex:none;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__h-rule{\r\n    height:2px; width:54px; background:var(--red);\r\n    border-radius:2px; margin:0 0 22px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__sec p{ margin:0 0 16px; font-size:16px; }\r\n  .bghc__sec p:last-child{ margin-bottom:0; }\r\n  .bghc__sec strong{ color:var(--blue-dark); font-weight:600; }\r\n\r\n  .bghc__note{\r\n    display:flex; gap:14px; align-items:flex-start;\r\n    background:var(--soft); border-left:4px solid var(--blue);\r\n    border-radius:0 12px 12px 0; padding:18px 20px; margin:0 0 16px;\r\n    font-size:15px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__note svg{ flex:none; width:22px; height:22px; color:var(--blue); margin-top:2px; }\r\n\r\n  \/* bullet lists *\/\r\n  .bghc__list{ list-style:none; margin:6px 0 0; padding:0; display:grid; gap:11px; }\r\n  .bghc__list li{\r\n    position:relative; padding-left:30px; font-size:16px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__list li::before{\r\n    content:\"\"; position:absolute; left:4px; top:9px;\r\n    width:9px; height:9px; border-radius:50%;\r\n    background:var(--blue);\r\n    box-shadow:0 0 0 4px rgba(43,92,171,0.14);\r\n  }\r\n\r\n  \/* numbered step cards *\/\r\n  .bghc__steps{ display:grid; gap:14px; margin:6px 0 0; counter-reset:step; }\r\n  .bghc__step{\r\n    counter-increment:step;\r\n    position:relative;\r\n    background:#fff; border:1px solid var(--line); border-radius:14px;\r\n    padding:20px 22px 20px 70px;\r\n    transition:transform .25s ease, box-shadow .25s ease, border-color .25s ease;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__step::before{\r\n    content:counter(step);\r\n    position:absolute; left:18px; top:18px;\r\n    width:36px; height:36px; border-radius:10px;\r\n    display:flex; align-items:center; justify-content:center;\r\n    font-family:'Fraunces',Georgia,serif; font-weight:600; font-size:17px;\r\n    color:#fff;\r\n    background:linear-gradient(150deg, var(--blue) 0%, var(--blue-dark) 100%);\r\n    box-shadow:0 6px 14px rgba(20,50,100,0.22);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__step:hover{\r\n    transform:translateY(-3px);\r\n    border-color:#cfdbf0;\r\n    box-shadow:0 14px 30px rgba(20,50,100,0.10);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__step h3{\r\n    font-family:'Outfit',sans-serif; font-weight:600; font-size:17px;\r\n    color:var(--blue-dark); margin:0 0 5px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__step p{ margin:0; font-size:15px; }\r\n\r\n  \/* feature cards *\/\r\n  .bghc__cards{\r\n    display:grid; grid-template-columns:repeat(auto-fit,minmax(240px,1fr)); gap:16px; margin-top:6px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__card{\r\n    background:#fff; border:1px solid var(--line); border-radius:14px;\r\n    padding:24px 22px; position:relative; overflow:hidden;\r\n    transition:transform .25s ease, box-shadow .25s ease, border-color .25s ease;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__card::before{\r\n    content:\"\"; position:absolute; top:0; left:0; width:100%; height:3px;\r\n    background:linear-gradient(90deg, var(--blue), var(--red));\r\n    transform:scaleX(0); transform-origin:left; transition:transform .3s ease;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__card:hover{ transform:translateY(-4px); border-color:#cfdbf0; box-shadow:0 16px 34px rgba(20,50,100,0.10); }\r\n  .bghc__card:hover::before{ transform:scaleX(1); }\r\n  .bghc__card-ic{\r\n    width:44px; height:44px; border-radius:11px; margin-bottom:14px;\r\n    display:flex; align-items:center; justify-content:center;\r\n    background:var(--soft); color:var(--blue);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__card-ic svg{ width:22px; height:22px; }\r\n  .bghc__card h3{\r\n    font-family:'Outfit',sans-serif; font-weight:600; font-size:17px;\r\n    color:var(--blue-dark); margin:0 0 6px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__card p{ margin:0; font-size:14.5px; }\r\n\r\n  \/* ===== FAQ accordion ===== *\/\r\n  .bghc__faq{ display:grid; gap:12px; margin-top:6px; }\r\n  .bghc__faq details{\r\n    border:1px solid var(--line); border-radius:12px; background:#fff;\r\n    overflow:hidden; transition:border-color .2s ease, box-shadow .2s ease;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__faq details[open]{ border-color:#cfdbf0; box-shadow:0 10px 26px rgba(20,50,100,0.08); }\r\n  .bghc__faq summary{\r\n    list-style:none; cursor:pointer;\r\n    display:flex; align-items:center; justify-content:space-between; gap:16px;\r\n    padding:18px 20px; font-weight:600; font-size:16px; color:var(--blue-dark);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__faq summary::-webkit-details-marker{ display:none; }\r\n  .bghc__faq summary .ic{\r\n    flex:none; width:26px; height:26px; border-radius:50%;\r\n    background:var(--soft); color:var(--blue);\r\n    display:flex; align-items:center; justify-content:center;\r\n    transition:transform .25s ease, background .25s ease, color .25s ease;\r\n    font-size:18px; line-height:1;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__faq details[open] summary .ic{ transform:rotate(45deg); background:var(--blue); color:#fff; }\r\n  .bghc__faq .ans{ padding:0 20px 18px; font-size:15px; }\r\n\r\n  \/* ===== CTA ===== *\/\r\n  .bghc__cta{\r\n    position:relative; overflow:hidden;\r\n    margin-top:clamp(46px,6vw,68px);\r\n    border-radius:20px;\r\n    background:linear-gradient(150deg, var(--blue-deep) 0%, var(--blue) 60%, var(--blue-dark) 100%);\r\n    color:#fff;\r\n    \/* no bottom padding: the founder image is anchored flush to the bottom edge *\/\r\n    padding:clamp(40px,5vw,56px) clamp(28px,4vw,52px) 0;\r\n    box-shadow:0 18px 44px rgba(15,40,85,0.32);\r\n    border:1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.12);\r\n    \/* two-column: text + founder image *\/\r\n    display:grid;\r\n    grid-template-columns:1.3fr 1fr;\r\n    align-items:stretch;\r\n    gap:clamp(24px,4vw,48px);\r\n  }\r\n  \/* darkening + texture so white text stays crisp over the gradient *\/\r\n  .bghc__cta::before{\r\n    content:\"\"; position:absolute; top:-100px; right:-80px;\r\n    width:300px; height:300px; border:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.14); border-radius:50%;\r\n    z-index:0; pointer-events:none;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__cta-text{ position:relative; z-index:2; text-align:left; padding-bottom:clamp(40px,5vw,56px); align-self:center; }\r\n  .bghc__cta-eyebrow{\r\n    display:inline-flex; align-items:center; gap:9px;\r\n    font-size:12px; font-weight:600; letter-spacing:.16em; text-transform:uppercase;\r\n    color:#ffd2d4; margin:0 0 14px;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__cta-eyebrow::before{\r\n    content:\"\"; width:24px; height:2px; background:var(--red); display:inline-block;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__cta h2{\r\n    font-family:'Fraunces',Georgia,serif; font-weight:600;\r\n    font-size:clamp(26px,3.2vw,38px); line-height:1.12; margin:0 0 14px; letter-spacing:-0.01em;\r\n    color:#fff;\r\n    text-shadow:0 2px 18px rgba(8,24,55,0.45);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__cta p{\r\n    max-width:46ch; margin:0 0 28px; font-size:clamp(15px,1.3vw,17px);\r\n    color:#fff; opacity:.96;\r\n    text-shadow:0 1px 10px rgba(8,24,55,0.35);\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__cta-row{ display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; gap:14px; justify-content:flex-start; }\r\n  .bghc__btn{\r\n    position:relative; display:inline-flex; align-items:center; gap:10px;\r\n    padding:14px 28px; border-radius:10px; font-size:16px; font-weight:600;\r\n    text-decoration:none; cursor:pointer; overflow:hidden;\r\n    transition:transform .25s cubic-bezier(.2,.7,.2,1), box-shadow .25s ease, background .25s ease, color .25s ease;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__btn::after{\r\n    content:\"\"; position:absolute; top:0; left:-130%; width:60%; height:100%;\r\n    background:linear-gradient(120deg, transparent, rgba(255,255,255,0.45), transparent);\r\n    transform:skewX(-20deg); transition:left .6s ease; pointer-events:none;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__btn:hover::after{ left:140%; }\r\n  .bghc__btn--primary{ background:#fff; color:var(--blue-dark); box-shadow:0 12px 28px rgba(15,40,85,0.35); }\r\n  .bghc__btn--primary:hover{ transform:translateY(-3px); background:#f0f5ff; box-shadow:0 16px 36px rgba(15,40,85,0.45); }\r\n  .bghc__btn--primary svg{ width:16px; height:16px; transition:transform .25s ease; }\r\n  .bghc__btn--primary:hover svg{ transform:translateX(5px); }\r\n  .bghc__btn--ghost{ background:rgba(255,255,255,0.10); color:#fff; border:2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.7); }\r\n  .bghc__btn--ghost:hover{ background:#fff; color:var(--blue-dark); border-color:#fff; transform:translateY(-3px); }\r\n\r\n  \/* founder image column \u2014 anchored flush to the bottom edge so she's grounded *\/\r\n  .bghc__cta-media{\r\n    position:relative; z-index:2;\r\n    align-self:end;\r\n    display:flex; justify-content:center; align-items:flex-end;\r\n  }\r\n  .bghc__cta-media img{\r\n    display:block;\r\n    width:100%;\r\n    max-width:430px;\r\n    height:auto;\r\n    \/* sits on the bottom edge; soft shadow grounds her without the floating look *\/\r\n    filter:drop-shadow(0 -2px 30px rgba(8,24,55,0.30));\r\n  }\r\n\r\n  \/* ===== keyframes ===== *\/\r\n  @keyframes bghcRise{ from{opacity:0; transform:translateY(20px);} to{opacity:1; transform:translateY(0);} }\r\n  @keyframes bghcLine{ to{ transform:scaleX(1); } }\r\n  @keyframes bghcRingIn{ from{opacity:0; transform:scale(.85);} to{opacity:1; transform:scale(1);} }\r\n  @keyframes bghcFloat{ 0%,100%{transform:translate(0,0);} 50%{transform:translate(-12px,12px);} }\r\n\r\n  \/* reveal-on-scroll *\/\r\n  .bghc__reveal{ opacity:0; transform:translateY(24px); transition:opacity .6s ease, transform .6s cubic-bezier(.2,.7,.2,1); }\r\n  .bghc__reveal.is-in{ opacity:1; transform:translateY(0); }\r\n\r\n  @media (prefers-reduced-motion:reduce){\r\n    .bghc *{ animation:none !important; }\r\n    .bghc__reveal{ opacity:1; transform:none; transition:none; }\r\n  }\r\n\r\n  @media (max-width:860px){\r\n    \/* stack the CTA: text on top, image below, both centered *\/\r\n    .bghc__cta{ grid-template-columns:1fr; text-align:center; }\r\n    .bghc__cta-text{ text-align:center; padding-bottom:0; }\r\n    .bghc__cta p{ margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; }\r\n    .bghc__cta-row{ justify-content:center; margin-bottom:8px; }\r\n    .bghc__cta-eyebrow{ justify-content:center; }\r\n    .bghc__cta-media img{ max-width:320px; }\r\n  }\r\n\r\n  @media (max-width:680px){\r\n    .bghc__h{ flex-direction:column; gap:4px; }\r\n    .bghc__toc ol{ grid-template-columns:1fr; }\r\n    .bghc__intro{ border-radius:18px; margin-left:12px; margin-right:12px; }\r\n  }\r\n<\/style>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"bghc\">\r\n\r\n  <!-- ===== Intro \/ hero band ===== -->\r\n  <header class=\"bghc__intro\">\r\n    <div class=\"bghc__intro-sheen\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"bghc__grid-tex\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"bghc__wrap\">\r\n      <p class=\"bghc__eyebrow\">Permanent Residence from Within Canada<\/p>\r\n      <h1 class=\"bghc__title\">Humanitarian &amp; <span class=\"it\">Compassionate<\/span> Grounds<\/h1>\r\n      <p class=\"bghc__lede\">\r\n        Humanitarian and compassionate (H&amp;C) consideration is an exceptional pathway to permanent residence\r\n        for people in Canada who would not otherwise qualify under an existing immigration class. Decided\r\n        case-by-case under section 25(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, it asks an officer to\r\n        weigh your real-life circumstances \u2014 and it is entirely discretionary, with no guaranteed outcome.\r\n      <\/p>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/header>\r\n\r\n  <div class=\"bghc__body\">\r\n    <div class=\"bghc__wrap\">\r\n\r\n      <!-- ===== Table of Contents ===== -->\r\n      <nav class=\"bghc__toc bghc__reveal\" aria-label=\"On this page\">\r\n        <h2>On this page<\/h2>\r\n        <ol>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-what\">What H&amp;C Consideration Is<\/a><\/li>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-who\">Who It's For<\/a><\/li>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-factors\">Factors Officers Weigh<\/a><\/li>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-not\">What H&amp;C Does Not Consider<\/a><\/li>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-limits\">Limits, Bars &amp; One Application Rule<\/a><\/li>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-apply\">How to Apply<\/a><\/li>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-fees\">Fees &amp; What to Expect<\/a><\/li>\r\n          <li><a href=\"#bghc-faq\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li>\r\n        <\/ol>\r\n      <\/nav>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 1. What is H&C -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-what\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">01<\/span> What H&amp;C Consideration Is<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          Section 25(1) of the <strong>Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA)<\/strong> allows foreign\r\n          nationals in Canada who are inadmissible or who do not meet the requirements of an immigration class\r\n          to ask <strong>Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)<\/strong> for permanent residence,\r\n          or for an exemption from a requirement of the Act, based on humanitarian and compassionate\r\n          considerations.\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__note\">\r\n          <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><path d=\"M12 16v-4M12 8h.01\"\/><\/svg>\r\n          <div>H&amp;C is described by IRCC as an <strong>exceptional measure<\/strong> \u2014 it is not simply another way to apply for permanent residence. Officers have broad discretion, and approval is never guaranteed.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          Because each decision turns on a person's individual situation, there are no fixed pass\/fail\r\n          thresholds. Instead, an officer conducts a <strong>global, case-by-case assessment<\/strong> of the\r\n          circumstances you present, taking into account the best interests of any child directly affected.\r\n        <\/p>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 2. Who it's for -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-who\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">02<\/span> Who It's For<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          H&amp;C consideration is intended for people whose situation is compelling enough to justify an\r\n          exemption from the usual rules. It may be relevant if you:\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <ul class=\"bghc__list\">\r\n          <li>are physically in Canada and would not normally be eligible to become a permanent resident<\/li>\r\n          <li>have built a meaningful life here and would face genuine hardship if required to leave<\/li>\r\n          <li>have strong family ties in Canada, or are responsible for a child whose interests would be affected<\/li>\r\n          <li>cannot reasonably resolve your status through an ordinary economic, family, or refugee pathway<\/li>\r\n        <\/ul>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__note\" style=\"margin-top:18px;\">\r\n          <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><path d=\"M12 16v-4M12 8h.01\"\/><\/svg>\r\n          <div>The <strong>cost and inconvenience<\/strong> of leaving Canada to apply for permanent residence the usual way are not, on their own, sufficient H&amp;C factors. You must show genuinely compelling reasons.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 3. Factors officers weigh -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-factors\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">03<\/span> Factors Officers Weigh<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          IRCC assesses H&amp;C applications holistically: factors are not judged in isolation but considered\r\n          cumulatively. The elements officers commonly look at include:\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__cards\">\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__card\">\r\n            <div class=\"bghc__card-ic\">\r\n              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 21h18M5 21V7l8-4v18M19 21V11l-6-3\"\/><path d=\"M9 9v.01M9 12v.01M9 15v.01\"\/><\/svg>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n            <h3>Establishment in Canada<\/h3>\r\n            <p>How settled you are \u2014 employment, studies, community involvement, time spent here, and ties you have built.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__card\">\r\n            <div class=\"bghc__card-ic\">\r\n              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 21s-7-4.35-9.5-8.5C1 9 2.5 5.5 6 5.5c2 0 3.2 1.2 4 2.3.8-1.1 2-2.3 4-2.3 3.5 0 5 3.5 3.5 7C19 16.65 12 21 12 21z\"\/><\/svg>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n            <h3>Best Interests of a Child<\/h3>\r\n            <p>The best interests of any child directly affected by the decision are given significant, substantive weight.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__card\">\r\n            <div class=\"bghc__card-ic\">\r\n              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 2L3 7v6c0 5 3.8 8.4 9 9 5.2-.6 9-4 9-9V7l-9-5z\"\/><\/svg>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n            <h3>Hardship if Returned<\/h3>\r\n            <p>What could happen to you if the request is not granted \u2014 including personal vulnerability, health, and adverse conditions in your home country.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__card\">\r\n            <div class=\"bghc__card-ic\">\r\n              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"9\" cy=\"8\" r=\"3\"\/><circle cx=\"17\" cy=\"9\" r=\"2.5\"\/><path d=\"M3 20a6 6 0 0 1 12 0M14.5 14.5A5 5 0 0 1 21 20\"\/><\/svg>\r\n            <\/div>\r\n            <h3>Family Ties to Canada<\/h3>\r\n            <p>Your relationships and dependencies here, and what separation from family members would mean for you and for them.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <p style=\"margin-top:18px;\">\r\n          Officers may also weigh <strong>health considerations<\/strong> and any other unique or exceptional\r\n          circumstances you raise. The burden is on you to provide compelling evidence for the exemption you\r\n          are requesting.\r\n        <\/p>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 4. What H&C does NOT consider -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-not\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">04<\/span> What H&amp;C Does Not Consider<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          H&amp;C is not a substitute for the refugee system. Under section 25(1.3) of IRPA, when examining a\r\n          request made from inside Canada, an officer:\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <ul class=\"bghc__list\">\r\n          <li>may <strong>not<\/strong> consider the risk factors used to decide whether someone is a Convention refugee (section 96) or a person in need of protection (section 97) \u2014 such as a risk of persecution, torture, or cruel and unusual treatment<\/li>\r\n          <li><strong>must<\/strong>, however, consider the elements of <strong>hardship<\/strong> that affect you, even where the underlying facts overlap with risk<\/li>\r\n        <\/ul>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__note\" style=\"margin-top:18px;\">\r\n          <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M10.29 3.86L1.82 18a2 2 0 0 0 1.71 3h16.94a2 2 0 0 0 1.71-3L13.71 3.86a2 2 0 0 0-3.42 0z\"\/><path d=\"M12 9v4M12 17h.01\"\/><\/svg>\r\n          <div>Protection-based <strong>risk<\/strong> is assessed through the refugee claim process and the Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) \u2014 not through H&amp;C. The same situation may be framed as <strong>hardship<\/strong> for H&amp;C purposes; getting this distinction right matters, which is where licensed advice helps.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 5. Limits, bars & one application rule -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-limits\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">05<\/span> Limits, Bars &amp; One Application Rule<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          Several statutory limits restrict who can have an H&amp;C request examined and when:\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <ul class=\"bghc__list\">\r\n          <li><strong>One at a time:<\/strong> a person may only have one H&amp;C application under consideration at any given time<\/li>\r\n          <li><strong>Pending refugee claim:<\/strong> IRCC cannot examine an H&amp;C request while you have a refugee claim pending before the Refugee Protection Division or Refugee Appeal Division<\/li>\r\n          <li><strong>The 12-month bar (\"one-year bar\"):<\/strong> generally you cannot apply if you received a negative IRB decision within the last 12 months<\/li>\r\n          <li><strong>Certain inadmissibilities excluded:<\/strong> H&amp;C is not available to overcome the most serious inadmissibilities, such as security, human or international rights violations, or organized criminality<\/li>\r\n        <\/ul>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__note\" style=\"margin-top:18px;\">\r\n          <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><path d=\"M12 16v-4M12 8h.01\"\/><\/svg>\r\n          <div>The 12-month bar does <strong>not<\/strong> apply if you have a child under 18 who would be adversely affected by your removal, or proof that you or a dependant has a life-threatening medical condition that cannot be treated in your home country. These rules are nuanced \u2014 confirm how they apply to you before relying on them.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 6. How to apply -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-apply\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">06<\/span> How to Apply<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          An H&amp;C application is built around the specific exemption you are asking for and the evidence\r\n          that supports it. The general process is:\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__steps\">\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__step\">\r\n            <h3>Confirm You Are Eligible to Apply<\/h3>\r\n            <p>Check that no bar applies \u2014 no pending refugee claim, no recent negative IRB decision within the bar period, and no other H&amp;C application already in progress.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__step\">\r\n            <h3>Identify the Exemption(s) You Need<\/h3>\r\n            <p>Clearly state the specific requirement of the Act you are asking to be exempted from, and the reasons why an exemption is justified on H&amp;C grounds.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__step\">\r\n            <h3>Build Your Evidence<\/h3>\r\n            <p>Assemble documents that show establishment, family ties, the best interests of any affected child, and the hardship you would face \u2014 letters, records, and a detailed personal statement.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__step\">\r\n            <h3>Complete the IRCC Forms &amp; Pay the Fees<\/h3>\r\n            <p>Prepare the application package and pay the applicable processing fees. Submit according to the current IRCC instructions for your situation.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__step\">\r\n            <h3>Respond to Requests and Await a Decision<\/h3>\r\n            <p>You may be asked for biometrics, a medical exam, or additional information. Because the decision is discretionary, processing can take time and the outcome is not guaranteed.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 7. Fees & what to expect -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-fees\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">07<\/span> Fees &amp; What to Expect<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          An H&amp;C application carries the standard permanent-residence processing fee, plus the Right of\r\n          Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) that most applicants pay before becoming a permanent resident.\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__note\">\r\n          <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><path d=\"M12 16v-4M12 8h.01\"\/><\/svg>\r\n          <div>As of <strong>June 2026<\/strong>, IRCC's fee for a principal applicant under the humanitarian and compassionate \/ public policy category is <strong>CAD $660<\/strong>, and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee is <strong>CAD $600<\/strong> (both increased on April 30, 2026). These amounts are set by IRCC and change periodically \u2014 confirm the current figures on the official IRCC fee list before paying.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <p>\r\n          Processing times for H&amp;C applications vary considerably from case to case and are not fixed.\r\n          A successful H&amp;C decision can lead to permanent residence, but because the process is\r\n          discretionary, no timeline or result can be promised.\r\n        <\/p>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__note\">\r\n          <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M10.29 3.86L1.82 18a2 2 0 0 0 1.71 3h16.94a2 2 0 0 0 1.71-3L13.71 3.86a2 2 0 0 0-3.42 0z\"\/><path d=\"M12 9v4M12 17h.01\"\/><\/svg>\r\n          <div>This page is <strong>general information, not legal advice<\/strong>, and does not guarantee any outcome. For advice on your own situation, speak with a licensed professional and confirm the current rules with IRCC.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- 8. FAQ -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__sec bghc__reveal\" id=\"bghc-faq\">\r\n        <h2 class=\"bghc__h\"><span class=\"num\">08<\/span> Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__h-rule\"><\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__faq\">\r\n          <details>\r\n            <summary>Is H&amp;C a guaranteed way to get permanent residence?<span class=\"ic\">+<\/span><\/summary>\r\n            <div class=\"ans\">No. H&amp;C is an exceptional, discretionary measure under section 25(1) of IRPA. An officer assesses your circumstances case-by-case, and there is no guaranteed outcome. It is not meant as a routine alternative to the usual immigration pathways.<\/div>\r\n          <\/details>\r\n          <details>\r\n            <summary>Can I apply for H&amp;C while my refugee claim is pending?<span class=\"ic\">+<\/span><\/summary>\r\n            <div class=\"ans\">No. IRCC cannot examine an H&amp;C request while you have a refugee claim pending before the Refugee Protection Division or the Refugee Appeal Division. There is also generally a 12-month bar after a negative IRB decision, with limited exceptions involving a directly affected child under 18 or a life-threatening medical condition.<\/div>\r\n          <\/details>\r\n          <details>\r\n            <summary>Can I have more than one H&amp;C application at the same time?<span class=\"ic\">+<\/span><\/summary>\r\n            <div class=\"ans\">No. A person is only allowed to have one H&amp;C application under consideration at any time.<\/div>\r\n          <\/details>\r\n          <details>\r\n            <summary>Does H&amp;C consider the risk I would face in my home country?<span class=\"ic\">+<\/span><\/summary>\r\n            <div class=\"ans\">Not as \"risk\" in the refugee sense. Under section 25(1.3), an officer deciding an in-Canada H&amp;C request may not consider the factors used for refugee protection (sections 96 and 97), but must consider the hardship those circumstances cause you. Protection-based risk is assessed through the refugee claim process or a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment instead.<\/div>\r\n          <\/details>\r\n          <details>\r\n            <summary>What factors carry the most weight?<span class=\"ic\">+<\/span><\/summary>\r\n            <div class=\"ans\">There is no fixed formula. Officers look holistically at establishment in Canada, family ties, the hardship you would face if returned, and \u2014 significantly \u2014 the best interests of any child directly affected. Factors are weighed cumulatively rather than in isolation.<\/div>\r\n          <\/details>\r\n          <details>\r\n            <summary>How much does an H&amp;C application cost?<span class=\"ic\">+<\/span><\/summary>\r\n            <div class=\"ans\">As of June 2026, the IRCC processing fee for a principal applicant is CAD $660, plus a CAD $600 Right of Permanent Residence Fee generally paid before you become a permanent resident. Fees change over time, so always confirm the current amounts on the official IRCC fee list.<\/div>\r\n          <\/details>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n      <!-- ===== CTA ===== -->\r\n      <section class=\"bghc__cta bghc__reveal\">\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__cta-text\">\r\n          <p class=\"bghc__cta-eyebrow\">Talk to a Licensed Expert<\/p>\r\n          <h2>Is H&amp;C the right path for you?<\/h2>\r\n          <p>Our licensed immigration consultants (RCICs regulated by the CICC) can help you assess whether H&amp;C fits your situation, frame your circumstances accurately, and build a well-evidenced application.<\/p>\r\n          <div class=\"bghc__cta-row\">\r\n            <a href=\"#book\" class=\"bghc__btn bghc__btn--primary\">\r\n              Book a Consultation\r\n              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.5\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M5 12h14M13 6l6 6-6 6\"\/><\/svg>\r\n            <\/a>\r\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/free-immigration-assessment\/\" class=\"bghc__btn bghc__btn--ghost\">Free Assessment<\/a>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"bghc__cta-media\">\r\n          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/chosen_transparent-2-scaled.png\" alt=\"BroadGate founder\" loading=\"lazy\">\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/section>\r\n\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<script>\r\n\/* Reveal-on-scroll. If stripped, the .is-in fallback below still shows everything. *\/\r\n(function(){\r\n  function ready(fn){ if(document.readyState!=='loading') fn(); else document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', fn); }\r\n  ready(function(){\r\n    var els = document.querySelectorAll('.bghc__reveal');\r\n    if(!('IntersectionObserver' in window)){\r\n      els.forEach(function(el){ el.classList.add('is-in'); });\r\n      return;\r\n    }\r\n    var io = new IntersectionObserver(function(entries){\r\n      entries.forEach(function(e){\r\n        if(e.isIntersecting){ e.target.classList.add('is-in'); io.unobserve(e.target); }\r\n      });\r\n    }, { threshold:0.12, rootMargin:'0px 0px -8% 0px' });\r\n    els.forEach(function(el){ io.observe(el); });\r\n  });\r\n})();\r\n<\/script>\r\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Permanent Residence from Within Canada Humanitarian &amp; Compassionate Grounds Humanitarian and compassionate (H&amp;C) consideration is an exceptional pathway to permanent residence for people in Canada who would not otherwise qualify&hellip;<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"elementor_header_footer","meta":{"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-23875","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23875","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23875"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23875\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23879,"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/23875\/revisions\/23879"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/broadgate.ca\/fa\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23875"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}