Visitor Visa Reconsideration Request
If IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) denies your visa, you can ask for a reconsideration. Here’s why and when you should consider doing so, and under which regulation they are required to assess it:
Why Make a Visitor Visa Reconsideration Request
1. If there were errors in the visa officer’s decision, you can request a reconsideration to correct them.
2. If you have new information or documents, submit them if they were not available at the time of the original application. They can support your reconsideration request.
3. If you think the visa officer misunderstood the information, a reconsideration request lets you clarify.
4. If you feel the decision was unfair or ignored relevant information, you can request a review. The review ensures procedural fairness.
When to Make a Visa Reconsideration Request
To submit a reconsideration request it all depends on Individual’s visa applications. If you don’t want to submit it yourself consider hiring a Immigration Consultant to make this process smooth and error free.
1. After the refusal, it’s best to request a reconsideration quickly. There is no formal time limit, but delays can negatively affect your request.
2. Before Filing a New Application: If you plan to reapply, ask for reconsideration first. This will address the issues that led to the refusal. This might improve your chances in the new application.
3. Before Legal Action: If you are considering legal action, like an appeal to the Federal Court of Canada, it can help to first request reconsideration. This can resolve the matter without litigation.
Regulation and Requirements for Visitor Visa Reconsideration
Reconsideration requests are judged by general administrative law and fairness. They are not tied to a specific rule. However, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and its Regulations (IRPR) influence all immigration decisions.
– IRPA Section 11: States that an officer must be satisfied that the foreign national is not inadmissible and meets the requirements of the Act. Procedural Fairness: The principles of fairness in procedures require making decisions fairly. They must also consider all relevant information.
How to Make a Reconsideration Request if your Application was refused
To ask for a reconsideration of a refusal of your immigration application, follow these steps.
Please note that always identify the reasons for refusal whether you made a mistake in your application for a visitor visa.
- Identify the Error or New Information: Identify the error in the decision or the new information you present.
- Write a Letter: Write a detailed letter explaining why you believe the decision should be reconsidered. Include your application number, personal details, and a clear explanation of the reasons for the request.
You can download our Sample Visitor Visa Reconsideration Letter from here.
- Attach Supporting Documents: Provide any additional documents or evidence that support your case.
- Submit the Request: Send the reconsideration request to the visa office using webform or the IRCC office that handled your application.
Follow these steps. They will ensure that your request is thorough. It will provide the visa officer with all the needed information to reassess your application.
Visitor Visa Reconsideration FAQs
What should I do if my visa application was refused?
If your visa application was refused, you can submit a request for reconsideration to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or reapply.
How can I prepare a request for reconsideration?
Identify the error or new information, write a letter of explanation, attach supporting documents, and submit the request to the IRCC office that handled your application via a webform.
Is a reconsideration request less complicated than other options?
Yes, a reconsideration request is less complicated and less costly compared to filing an appeal/ judicial review.
What are the reasons for visa refusal?
Common refusal reasons include but not limited to – not demonstrating strong ties to your home country, poor financial demonstration or giving immigration officer reasons to believe you’ll stay in Canada beyond your authorized stay.
How long do I have to submit a reconsideration request?
It’s best to submit your request as soon as possible after receiving the refusal letter. There is no strict deadline, but delays can affect your chances.
Can I reapply after my visa was refused?
Yes, you can reapply, but it’s often a good idea to request reconsideration first to address any issues from the first application.
What should I include in my letter of explanation?
Clearly explain the errors or new information, including your application number, personal details, and reasons why the decision should be reconsidered.
What if my situation changes after my visa was refused?
If your situation changes, you can include this new information in your reconsideration request or submit a new application.
