Refused application
Visa or permit refused: what to do now?
A refusal isn't always the end of the project. But resubmitting the same file usually leads to the same result. The first step: understand exactly why the officer refused.
1. Read the real reasons for the refusal
The refusal letter lists the reasons the officer relied on: insufficient funds, doubts about your intention to leave Canada, purpose of travel, missing documents, and so on. Each reason calls for a different response.
IRCC now includes the officer's decision notes with the refusal letter: since July 29, 2025 for temporary resident applications (visitor visas, super visas, study and work permits and their extensions), and since May 26, 2026 for permanent residence applications. Some parts may be removed to protect sensitive information.
To get more detail, you can make an access to information or privacy request to IRCC.
2. Choose the right route
Submit a new application
According to IRCC, you can apply again at any time, unless your decision letter says otherwise. A new application only makes sense if it brings new information that addresses the reasons for the refusal. If you held status in Canada that has expired, the time to act can be short: it's stated in your letter.
Seek judicial review at the Federal Court
If the decision contains an error, you can apply for leave for judicial review at the Federal Court. The deadlines are strict: 15 days if the decision was made in Canada, 60 days if it was made outside Canada, from the time you were notified of the decision.
Limit of our mandate: representation before the Federal Court is reserved for lawyers. If it's the right route for you, we tell you clearly and refer you, within the deadlines.
When the refusal involves misrepresentation
A finding of misrepresentation can lead to five years of inadmissibility. In that case, simply reapplying isn't enough: the situation needs to be analyzed separately.
3. The mistakes that cost the most
- Resubmitting the same file without addressing the reasons for the refusal
- Adding documents unrelated to what the officer objected to
- Letting the 15- or 60-day deadline pass without assessing judicial review
- Staying in Canada without valid status while waiting for a new decision
What we do for you
- Read the letter and the officer's notes, and identify the reason actually relied on
- Tell you honestly whether a new application has a chance of success, and what it must contain
- Rebuild the evidence on the exact point that caused the refusal
- Refer you quickly to a lawyer if judicial review is the route to prioritize
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to wait before reapplying?
Generally no, unless your decision letter says so. But reapplying quickly without new evidence usually leads to a second refusal, which is added to your history.
Does a visitor visa refusal stop me from studying or working in Canada later?
A refusal doesn't in itself prevent another application. It is, however, part of your history: the reasons for the previous refusal must be taken into account and corrected in any new application.
Official sources: IRCC, "Explaining the refusal of an application: officer decision notes" (canada.ca, modified August 27, 2026) and the IRCC Help Centre (modified September 1, 2026); Federal Court, "Application for leave and judicial review (Immigration)" (fct-cf.ca). Consulted September 14, 2026.
Don't reapply blind.
One hour online to understand your refusal and choose the right route, before the deadlines close.