Express Entry Refusals

Express Entry Refusals

Common Reasons for Express Entry Refusals

Immigration Canada may refuse your Express Entry application for a number of reasons. This article will explore the most common reasons for refusals which include criminality, misrepresentation, health issues, failure to meet eligibility requirements, missing relevant documents, missing deadlines, or due to a mistake committed by immigration officers.

  • Misrepresentation: It is important to be honest and accurate about all the details of your application to avoid being banned from immigration. Misrepresenting information can lead to serious consequences, including being barred from entering Canada for a period of time or even permanently.
  • Missing, Incomplete or Expired Documents: Before submitting your application, check that all your documents are valid, complete and meet the requirements. Incomplete, expired or missing documents can lead to delays in processing your application or even rejection. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents and that they are up-to-date. For example, Applicants may not provide police certificates from all countries where they have lived for six months.
  • Waiting too long to submit: Submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing out on immigration opportunities that may change or close quickly. Immigration programs can change frequently, and some may have limited quotas or deadlines. Acquiring supporting documentation early and applying early can increase your chances of success.
  • Inability to Show Proof of Funds: A reason for refusal is failure to show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family in Canada. You must provide proof of funds to show that you can support yourself and your family members who are coming with you to Canada. The amount of money you need depends on the size of your family and the number of family members who are coming with you.
  • Criminal Inadmissibility: Past criminal convictions that may make you ineligible for immigration to Canada. Criminal inadmissibility can be a serious obstacle to immigration, and it is important to understand your options and obligations. A criminal record can make you inadmissible to Canada, and you may need to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit or Criminal Rehabilitation.
  • Medical Inadmissibility: A reason for refusal is If you have any health issues that may pose a risk to the public health or safety of Canada. Medical inadmissibility can be a complex issue, and it is important to understand the requirements and procedures. You may need to undergo a medical examination or provide additional documentation to show that you are not a danger to public health or safety.
  • Not Hiring an Authorized Immigration Representative: Verify that your immigration lawyer or consultant is qualified and authorized by the Canadian government to avoid fraud and scams. Hiring an authorized representative can help you navigate the complex immigration process and avoid common mistakes. Only authorized representatives can charge a fee for their services, and they are subject to strict ethical and professional standards.
  • Primary Duties and Responsibilities not included in Letter of Employment: A common reason for refusal is failure to include vital information in the Letter of Employment. When applying for Express Entry, it is mandatory to provide a letter of employment from each period claimed under the work history section of the application. IRCC will review the letter to determine whether the applicant has the necessary experience required to meet the eligibility requirements of the program they are applying under and to determine their CRS points.
    • The letter should include:
    • the applicant’s job title/occupation,
    • Primary duties and Responsibilities
    • hours worked per week,
    • salary or hourly pay, benefits if applicable,
    • and should be on the Company’s letterhead and signed by the employer.
    • The most important information contained in the letter is the primary duties and responsibilities of the position. These duties will help the officer determine whether the NOC the applicant has selected in their application is the correct code for the position and whether the occupation will fall under a skill type 0, A or B. If there are no duties and responsibilities listed on the letter, the officer will have no choice but to refuse the application. It is always good practice that the employer includes no less than six duties and responsibilities on the letter. The reference or experience letter from the employer should indicate all positions held while employed at the company and must include the following details: job title, duties and responsibilities, job status (if current job), date.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and it is not intended as legal advice. The information is not a substitute for professional legal advice, and it may not be appropriate for you. Do not rely solely on this blog. Always do your own research and due diligence. Immigration laws and regulations can change over time. It is important to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer if you are unsure how to proceed.

Express Entry

Express Entry is the electronic management system for applying for permanent residency. It is not an immigration category but a system to facilitate the selection and processing of Canada’s economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and some Provincial Nomination Programs. This system evaluates candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency, aligning with Canada’s economic needs.

​Applicants must first make an “expression of interest” by creating a profile and, if eligible for at least one program, they will enter the Express Entry pool. Candidates from this pool will receive an ‘Invitation to Apply’ once they pass the points threshold under a draw. The points threshold is determined according to the latest draw that is held approximately every two weeks.

Canadian Experience Class

Unlock Your Canadian Dream: attain Permanent Residency with Just One Year of High-Skilled Work in Canada under the Express Entry CEC program

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Canadian Experience Class

Federal Skilled Trades

Transform Your Global Skills into Canadian Dreams: Qualify for Express Entry under the FSW Program with skilled work experience, strong language proficiency in English and French and ample post-secondary education.

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Federal Skilled Trades

Federal Skilled Worker

Points based category for foreign nationals who possess a high level of education and/or significant skilled work experience abroad.

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Federal Skilled Worker

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