After completing an application for a visa or permanent residence and submitting it to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there are cases where documents may be returned due to incomplete application. While this can happen due to an error on the part of IRCC, here are the steps to take in such situations.

Is the application postal or online?

If you applied by mail, IRCC will return your documents by post, including a document checklist and an explanation letter.

While online applications have become the mainstream method, for online submissions, you will typically receive an email stating: “As your application does not meet the requirements of R 10 of IRPA, it is considered incomplete and is being returned to you along with your processing fee. A copy of your application has not been retained.”

Both for postal and online applications, if the application fee has already been paid, there will also be information about refunds.

Steps for Reapplication

When your application is returned, first carefully read the explanation letter and document checklist included with your returned package (highlighted sections will show which documents are missing). Understand why the application was returned and what was missing. In the case of online applications, the reason for the return will be mentioned in the email, but no markings will be made on the submitted documents.

When reapplying, double-check to ensure the missing documents and information are included. If the signed date is within the IRCC’s required timeframe and the application form is the most current version, you can use the returned documents directly for reapplication.

Next, write an explanation letter to IRCC about any changes or additional information.
Note: If you cannot submit the missing documents, explain the reasons in the letter.

When resubmitting, include the explanation letter and document checklist from IRCC with your reapplication documents.

Note: After reapplying, the review period begins from the moment IRCC receives the documents.

Temporary resident applications (study, work, visitor) are almost always applied for online. Both Express Entry permanent residence applications and Family Class permanent residence applications are also processed online.

Despite doing everything carefully and to the best of your ability, errors by IRCC can lead to returned or rejected applications. Even if you protest, it may take months for IRCC to acknowledge its mistake or overturn a rejection. Unfortunately, in many cases, reapplying may be quicker than waiting for a decision.

If your application is returned or rejected after submitting it yourself, please contact us first. We can guide you with the best course of action based on trends and movements from IRCC.