IRCC Now Providing Officer Decision Notes with Refusal Letters – A Step Toward Greater Transparency
Date Posted:July 31, 2025
Last Updated:September 9, 2026
On July 29, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a new initiative aimed at improving transparency in its application process.
Certain applicants whose applications are refused will now also receive the officer’s decision notes explaining the reason behind the refusal, making it easier to understand outcomes and prepare for future submissions.
Applications Currently Covered
The officer decision notes will initially be included with refusal letters for the following application types, including applications for extensions:
- Temporary Resident Visas (excluding electronic Travel Authorizations and Temporary Resident Permits)
- Visitor Records
- Study Permits
- Work Permits
IRCC plans to expand this practice to cover more types of applications over time.
How You Will Receive the Notes
If your application is refused, the officer decision notes will automatically be included with the refusal letter sent to you or your authorized representative. There is no need to submit a separate request.
Please note that in some cases, parts of the decision notes may be withheld due to privacy, security, or other legal concerns.
Not Applicable to All Applications
Applicants who submit through the IRCC Portal – New version will not receive officer decision notes at this time.
Summary
This change is expected to help applicants better understand their application results and take appropriate steps when considering a re-application.
If you have questions about a refusal or need help interpreting the officer decision notes, feel free to contact us for personalized support.
Immigration Consultant
Yuki Shiraishi
Born in Japan. After earning a Bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan, she worked for six years in New York as a marketing consultant at a major travel agency, while also studying in an MBA program at the City University of New York. After returning to Japan, she managed the visa center of the same travel company, handling various international visa applications for foreign clients.
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