How to Fill Out IMM 0104: Authority to Release Personal Info
By WelcomeAide Team
What Is the IMM 0104?
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Quick tip: download the official IMM0104 first, then fill it while following this guide: Download IMM0104 form (official IRCC).
The IMM 0104, formally titled "Authority to Release Personal Information to a Designated Individual," is a form that allows you to authorize Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to share your personal immigration file information with a specific person. This person is not a paid representative (lawyers or immigration consultants use the IMM 5476 form instead). The IMM 0104 is for designating a trusted individual — such as a family member, friend, or community worker — who can access information about your application on your behalf.
For newcomers to Canada, this form is particularly useful when you want a family member or trusted friend to help you communicate with IRCC, check on your application status, or receive correspondence on your behalf.
IMM 0104 vs. IMM 5476: What's the Difference?
This distinction is important and often confused:
- IMM 0104 (Authority to Release Information): Used to designate an unpaid individual (family member, friend, community volunteer) who can receive information about your application. This person cannot act on your behalf or submit forms — they can only receive information
- IMM 5476 (Use of a Representative): Used to appoint a paid or unpaid representative (licensed immigration consultant, lawyer, or other authorized representative) who can communicate with IRCC on your behalf, submit documents, and make representations
If you are hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer, use the IMM 5476. If you simply want your spouse, parent, or friend to be able to call IRCC and ask about your application, use the IMM 0104.
Where to Download the IMM 0104
Download the form from the IRCC website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/application-forms-guides.html. Search for "IMM 0104." The form is a simple one-page PDF that can be filled out digitally or by hand.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing the IMM 0104
Section 1: Your Information (the Applicant)
Fill in your personal details:
- Family name (surname): As it appears on your passport and immigration application
- Given name(s): Your first and middle names
- Date of birth: YYYY-MM-DD format
- Country of birth: The country where you were born
- UCI (Unique Client Identifier): If you have one from a previous or current IRCC application. This is an 8 or 10-digit number found on IRCC correspondence
- Application number or file number: If available, include any reference number from your current application
- Current mailing address: Where IRCC can reach you
Consistency is key: Make sure every detail matches your other immigration forms exactly. Discrepancies between forms — even minor ones like a different spelling of your middle name — can cause confusion and delays.
Section 2: Information About the Designated Individual
This is the person you are authorizing to receive your information. Provide:
- Full name: The designated individual's complete legal name
- Date of birth: YYYY-MM-DD
- Relationship to you: E.g., "spouse," "mother," "friend," "settlement worker"
- Mailing address: The designated individual's address
- Telephone number: Include country code if outside Canada
- Email address
Section 3: Scope of Authorization
Specify what information the designated individual is allowed to access. You may authorize them to receive:
- General information about the status of your application
- Specific details about your file
- Correspondence from IRCC
Unless you have a specific reason to limit the scope, most applicants authorize full access to application information. You can also specify a time limit for the authorization (e.g., "until my application is finalized").
Section 4: Your Signature and Date
Sign and date the form. Your signature confirms that you are voluntarily authorizing this release of information. For online applications, you can sign electronically or print, sign, and scan the form.
When to Submit the IMM 0104
You can submit the IMM 0104:
- With your initial application: Include it in your application package when you first apply
- After submitting your application: If you decide later that you want someone to have access to your information, you can submit the IMM 0104 through your IRCC online account or by mailing it to the office processing your application
- To change or cancel a designated individual: Submit a new IMM 0104 to replace the previous one, or submit a letter requesting cancellation of the authorization
Common Scenarios for Using the IMM 0104
1. Spouse Helping with Application Tracking
You submitted a permanent residence application and want your Canadian spouse to be able to call the IRCC call centre and check on the status. Complete the IMM 0104 designating your spouse, and IRCC agents will be able to share information with them when they call.
2. Parent Receiving Correspondence
You are studying in Canada and want your parent back home to receive updates about your study permit extension. The IMM 0104 allows IRCC to communicate with your parent about your application.
3. Settlement Worker Assisting You
A settlement worker at a community agency is helping you with your refugee claim or sponsorship. If they are not a licensed representative, the IMM 0104 allows them to receive information (but not act on your behalf). However, if they need to actively communicate with IRCC, they may need to be designated as a representative under IMM 5476.
Important Limitations
The designated individual on the IMM 0104:
- Cannot submit applications or forms on your behalf
- Cannot make legal representations to IRCC
- Cannot provide immigration advice for a fee (this requires an RCIC or lawyer designation)
- Can receive information about your application
- Can call the IRCC call centre on your behalf to ask about processing status
- Can receive copies of IRCC correspondence
If you need someone to actively manage your application — submit documents, respond to IRCC requests, or make arguments on your behalf — you need a licensed representative and the IMM 5476 form.
Tips for Newcomers
- Keep a copy: Always save a copy of the completed IMM 0104 for your records. You may need to reference it later or provide it again if IRCC loses the original
- Update when necessary: If your designated individual's contact information changes, submit an updated IMM 0104
- Use the IRCC call centre: The IRCC call centre number is 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada). Your designated individual will need to provide your full name, date of birth, and application number when calling
- Privacy matters: Only designate someone you truly trust. The designated individual will have access to personal information about your immigration file
- Free help is available: Many settlement agencies across Canada offer free immigration assistance. Find one near you at https://ircc.canada.ca/english/newcomers/services/index.asp. These agencies can help you complete forms, prepare supporting documents, and understand the immigration process
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I designate more than one person?
Yes, you can submit multiple IMM 0104 forms designating different individuals. Each form covers one person.
Does the designated individual need to be in Canada?
No. The designated individual can be anywhere in the world, though it is more practical if they are in Canada for calling the IRCC call centre.
How do I cancel the authorization?
Submit a written request to IRCC stating that you wish to cancel the authority to release information to the designated individual. Include your full name, date of birth, UCI, application number, and the name of the person whose authorization you are revoking.
Is the IMM 0104 the same as giving someone Power of Attorney?
No. The IMM 0104 only authorizes the release of information. It does not give the designated individual any legal authority to act on your behalf or make decisions about your immigration case. Power of Attorney is a separate legal document and does not replace the need for the IMM 5476 if you want a representative to deal with IRCC on your behalf.
The IMM 0104 is a simple but useful form that gives you flexibility in managing your immigration application. Whether you want a family member to track your application status or a community helper to receive correspondence, this form ensures IRCC can share your information with the right people while protecting your privacy.
Download This Form
Before you submit anything, download the latest official file here: Download IMM0104 form (official IRCC). Always use the latest version.
Related internal guides
Official external resources
- Download IMM0104 form (official IRCC)
- IRCC forms and guides library
- IRCC document checklists
- CRA forms and publications
- IRCC processing times
- WelcomeAide Blog — browse all newcomer guides and updates
- Ask WelcomeAide AI — get personalized answers to immigration questions
- Newcomer Checklist — track your immigration and settlement steps
- Rights Guide — understand legal rights and protections in Canada
- Settlement Programs — find settlement and integration support services
- Guide to IMM 5487: Document Checklist for Super Visa
- How to Complete IMM 5710: Document Checklist for Study
- Guide to IMM 5708: Document Checklist for Visitor Visa
Related Resources
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Official Government Sources
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