Canada · IRCC document preparation
IRCC document upload limits and the one-file-per-field rule
IRCC's help pages list different per-file limits by account and explain that only one file is saved in each document field. This guide turns those rules into a cautious preparation workflow.
Published and source-checked .
IRCC's listed per-file limits
The current IRCC help page lists these limits by online account type:
| Online account type | Limit per file |
|---|---|
| IRCC secure account | 4 MB |
| IRCC Portal | 5 MB |
| Online citizenship application | 4 MB |
| Asylum portal | 4 MB |
| Permanent Residence Portal | 4 MB |
| IRCC Portal — New version | 5 MB |
Source: IRCC Help Centre — file size limits. The source page shows a modification date of April 17, 2026.
What “one file per field” means
IRCC says that only one file can be uploaded in each field. If multiple files are uploaded to the same field, only the last one is saved.
When several documents belong in one field, combine them first. For example, multiple statement pages or supporting records may need to become one ordered PDF. Do not combine unrelated documents unless the field instructions call for them together.
A safer PDF preparation workflow
- 1
Read the field instructions
Confirm the required document, format, and maximum inside the account you are actually using.
- 2
Create PDFs where appropriate
Convert clear scans or images only when the field accepts PDF. Keep originals available.
- 3
Combine documents for one field
Merge only the documents that belong together, then put the pages in a logical order.
- 4
Inspect the combined file
Open it, check every page, and remove accidental blank or duplicate pages.
- 5
Check the exact limit
Choose the matching account in the IRCC PDF Size Checker. It uses decimal MB and reports remaining headroom.
- 6
Compress only if needed
Compression can rasterize pages and remove searchable or interactive PDF structure, so avoid it for signed or fillable files.
- 7
Reopen and recheck
Inspect the downloaded output page by page, then run the size check again before uploading.
If the combined file is over the limit
- Remove accidental blank pages, duplicate scans, and oversized decorative images.
- Rescan at a sensible resolution or use grayscale when colour is not needed and legibility is preserved.
- IRCC's combining help page suggests 150 DPI or less when saving a PDF to reduce size; inspect the result because small text and stamps must remain readable.
- Compress the file, then reopen it and recheck the final download.
- Do not split a required combined document unless IRCC provides another field or explicitly permits it.
What the size checker does not verify
- Document requirements or completeness
- Account-specific naming rules
- Signatures or form validity
- Password and security restrictions
- Scan quality or content accuracy
- Portal acceptance or application outcome
Related upload guides
Frequently asked questions
Does every IRCC account have the same upload limit?
No. IRCC lists different per-file limits by online account type. Its current help page lists either 4 MB or 5 MB for the account types shown in this guide.
Can I upload several PDFs in one IRCC document field?
IRCC says only one file can be saved per field. When several documents belong in that field, combine them into one file and stay below the applicable limit.
Does passing the VisaFalcon size check guarantee acceptance?
No. The checker measures file size and basic PDF readability only. It cannot verify document requirements, content, signatures, security restrictions, or account-specific instructions.
Official sources
Review method: we compared the visible account table and combining instructions against these official pages on July 13, 2026. Report corrections to info@visafalcon.com.