Being refused a Canadian visa can be very frustrating as it can ruin travel plans, work plans, or even a new living arrangement. Don’t stress, after a visa refusal, there are a few steps you can take to still obtain a Canadian visa. Contrary to popular thoughts, reapplying after a Canadian visa rejection or refusal is an actual option, though dependent on the reasons for the rejection in the first place. The letter sent by the IRCC always carries a clue of why your visa has been rejected, even if they don’t provide the information explaining why it was refused.
But before we delve into what to do when an application is rejected, let’s deal with the various reasons why an application for a visa can be rejected based on the unique requirements of that visa type.
Reasons for a Canadian Visa Rejection:
- Failure to provide genuine and accurate supporting documents.
- Failure to show adequate financial buoyancy to finance your travel to and stay in Canada.
- Failure to meet Canada’s security standards, such as in cases where the applicant has a criminal record.
- Failure to satisfy health standards.
- Failure to satisfy communication standards.
- Visa officer has suspicions regarding the applicant’s intention or his/her application.
There may be other underlying factors that could result in a Canadian visa refusal, but most fall within the parameters of the aforementioned list.
In cases where an application is denied, you might be eligible to either appeal the refusal or reapply for the visa. In the case of an appeal, you cannot expect the authorities at the embassy to accept an appeal to obtain a temporary visa. The best option for temporary visas is for you to apply again for the visa with your newly improved application.
Does travel history matter for a Canada visa?
A good travel history can help a lot to get your visa approved for developed countries like as USA, Canada and, United Kingdom. Travel history is not an essential document or condition for obtaining a Canadian visa, but if you made a good travel history, then it can raise your chances of getting approval.
Avoiding Consecutive Canadian Visa Rejections in 2021
As earlier stated, the rejection letter you receive carries multiple clues and critical information about the reasons for the rejection. Peruse it carefully while taking note of whichever information you encounter that can be used to strengthen your reapplication. You can also ask for access to the notes your visa officer made while reviewing your application. This would help you address any concerns in your reapplication.
Consider an Appeal
Depending on your case, it is also a great idea to consider your eligibility for an appeal, either with the IAD (Immigration Adjudication Division) or the Federal Court of Canada. Note that appeals are only valid within a specific time frame and should be done immediately. If you fall under this category, your best bet is enlisting the help of a lawyer who specializes in Canadian visa applications.
Reapplication Procedures
After your Canadian visa rejection, you should be mindful of the exact process recommended for filing a new application. Know what the necessary steps are and make sure to follow them religiously in order to avoid any errors the second time around. The steps you follow on your reapplication will vary based on the type of visa you need.
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Canadian Student Visa Rejection Reasons
Canadian student visa applications are mostly refused for the same reasons why other application types are be refused as highlighted earlier in this guide.
But two unique refusal reasons limited to student visas are that the IRCC can question your program choice or your letter of acceptance. If the visa officer in charge of your application doesn’t see a connection between your chosen program of study and your work or educational background, they are liable to refuse your application. To address this specific issue, you should ensure you clarify in your personal statement your reasons for picking that particular program of study.
Work Visa
In case it’s a Canadian work visa, the most frequently sighted reasons for refusal are those aforementioned in the general reasons for a Canadian visa refusal. However, when it comes to work visas in Canada, it is important to note the distinction between a refusal and a return.
A refusal usually comes as a result of a failure to provide adequate proof of your finances, intentions, supporting documents, or meet the health, security, or criminal admissibility standards.
A return, however, often comes as a result of the quota for the program being filled, or from missing documents/incorrectly filled out application materials. The good news is, if your application was returned due to missing information, you could simply just correct those mistakes and reapply.
Visitor Visa
In the case of a refusal for a Canadian visitor visa, you’d need to follow the normal process of reviewing the reasons for rejection, correcting all mistakes, and providing any necessary additional information before reapplying. If you are sure there was nothing lacking on your previous application and that the officer-in-charge was mistaken, you can appeal. In such cases, please consult an immigration lawyer.
Correct the Initial Mistakes
Whatever class or type of visa you were rejected for, if the reason for the rejection was a mistake in your application package, you can solve the problem by making the necessary corrections. Check the information you gave earlier and provide the necessary data or supporting documents needed. Please ensure you give a good explanation for why the new information was not provided during your first application.
Seek Professional Assistance
There’s a high chance that if your visa was denied you didn’t enlist the help of an immigration lawyer. If you want that refusal overturned or your second application approved, getting your hands on your immigration Physical File is paramount. An immigration lawyer will be granted access to your file to determine what factor hindered you from getting approval. The laws that cover Canadian visa rejection is a little complicated. It is in your best interest to consult an experienced immigration lawyer who can properly advice you and support your case.