Refused Applications
Having your immigration application denied can be a disappointing and anxiety-inducing circumstance; however, it does not necessarily put an end to your time in Canada. Many rejected applicants come to us at ZF Canada seeking help to either appeal, seek reconsideration, or reapply after analyzing the reasons for the refusal of their application for immigration, refuge, or visa to Canada.
Understanding Your Refusal
An application can be rejected for any number of reasons by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), such as:
- Incomplete or inaccurate documentation
- Misrepresentation (intentional or unintentional)
- Not meeting the specific conditions for a program
- Security, health, or financial concerns
- Incredibility/Insufficiency in refugee claims
- Inadmissibility based on Criminal Record or Previous Violation
Knowing the precise reason your application was declined will help you determine the best course of action to take next.
Common Types of Refused Applications
Immigration and Refugee Program Refusals We help with refusals in any category of immigration and refugee classes, such as:
- Visitor Visa Refusals
- Study Permit Refusals
- Work Permit Refusals
- Permanent Residence Refusals (CIC, Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, etc.)
- Refugee Claims and Appeals
- Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds Applications
- Sponsorship Appeals (Spouse, Parents, etc.)
- PR Card Renewal Refusals
There are specific rules, time frames, and remedies for each type of refusal, and they must be initiated immediately.
What You Can Do After a Refusal
There are a few options depending on the nature of the case and the grounds on which it was refused:
Apply for Reconsideration
Depending on the circumstances (if, say, your application refusal was because of the vaguest misunderstanding, or your application was refused based on incorrect or incomplete information), you could also request that the same visa officer or the department reconsider the refusal.
Appeal the Decision
If your case is eligible, you can appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) or the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD). Appeals have stringent timelines and require good legal arguments and evidence.
Seek Judicial Review
In some cases, the Federal Courts of Canada can be asked to review a decision. This is not a new hearing, but a review of the law about whether the immigration officer or board acted unreasonably or unfairly.
Submit a New Application
Where no (or effective) rights of appeal exist, making a fresh application based on better-proved and corrected facts may be the best course.
How ZF Canada Can Help
We offer a methodological, systematic process for handling refused applications. Our services include:
- By reviewing refuse letters and GCMS (Global Case Management System) notes
- Appeal or reapplication strategy consultation
- Drafting of all pleadings and written arguments
- Advisor on refugee matters: Representing clients at the IRB and Federal Court (if applicable)
- New or mitigating evidence advancing the case
Our team ensures that each case receives personalized attention, a sense of urgency, and the expertise needed to improve the odds of success for our clients.
Take Action Quickly
Refusals of immigration are often made with strict limitations. Whether you are considering filing an appeal, requesting reconsideration, or submitting a new application, acting quickly is crucial. The earlier you learn of your choices, the better you will be able to act.
