Success Story – When Do We Consider a Reconsideration a Valid Option?

Your Options: When a strong application gets refused

Case Scenario:

A client, who is a post-graduate work permit holder, working as a machinist in Ontario, came to us looking for assistance to apply for an open work permit (OWP) for his spouse living outside of Canada. His spouse, a bachelor’s degree holder and a teacher, had no prior refusals, and it was her first immigration application to Canada.

With the new policy changes announced in January 2025, the couple was prepared to provide all the needed documentation. The application included proof of financial funds, employment documents of the PGWP holder, and educational documents proving his previous experience. The Canadian partner was employed under a TEER 2 NOC code, which meets the current spousal open work permit requirements. The couple also provided proof of an upcoming shared home to show strong ties to their home country.

Despite meeting all requirements, the application was refused for one sole reason: The purpose of your visit to Canada is not consistent with a temporary stay given the details you have provided in your application.

Options after refusal:

Submit a new application, file a judicial review with the Federal Court or submit a formal reconsideration request to the visa office.

Recommendation:

We had prepared a thorough application with a detailed submission letter. We determined a reconsideration request was the best option for our clients. This is a valid strategy when the application appears to meet all criteria, but may have been misjudged by the officer, and there are additional supporting documents which can be submitted to respond to the refusal reason.

Result:

The reconsideration was approved.

What is a Reconsideration Request, and when should you use it?

Let’s be honest. Getting a refusal letter from IRCC can feel like hitting a wall, especially when you know you submitted a strong application. But here’s what many people don’t realize right away: a refusal doesn’t mean the end of the road. This approach is generally more efficient than filing a judicial review with the Federal Court—which primarily addresses errors made by the officer—or submitting a new application, which would require new supporting documents to address the refusal reasons from the original application.

A reconsideration is exactly what it sounds like: a formal request providing reasons and supporting documents for the officer to reconsider the decision on your file. It’s not always the best route, and it won’t apply to every case. But when it’s used in the right context, it can be a strategy that saves you time, money, and unnecessary stress.

So, when should you consider this option? In my experience, it’s usually worth exploring when you believe the decision may have been made in error, or when you have additional supporting documents that weren’t submitted the first time but could clarify or strengthen your case. More importantly, a reconsideration request allows you to directly address the refusal by pointing to specific documents already included in your application that demonstrate the officer’s reasons are not valid. It is a targeted response that justifies why the decision should be reviewed and potentially approved.

How to prepare for a Reconsideration Request 

If you’re thinking about submitting a reconsideration, here are a few things to ask yourself first:

1. Was your application complete?
   If you submitted a strong and complete application and the submission did address the reasons for refusal, a reconsideration request may be useful. It can prompt the officer to revisit key documents you initially submitted — for example, proof of financial stability, employment records demonstrating your employability, and relationship documents clarifying the genuineness of your relationship.
2. Do you believe an error was made?
   Officers are human, and at times they may overlook or misinterpret key details. If you believe this occurred, it’s worth respectfully and directly clarifying your case — highlighting specific information that addresses the refusal reasons and supports a request for reconsideration.
3. Do you have new supporting documents that could improve your application?
   Even if your original file was complete, submitting new supporting evidence to respond to the refusal reasons can make a difference.

New evidence can be pivotal when a strong application gets refused, ensuring the officer has all necessary information.

If you decide to move forward with a reconsideration, you’ll need to act quickly. The reconsideration request should be submitted shortly after receiving the refusal letter. You can use IRCC’s web form to submit your explanation and documents. Keep your message clear and focused on the facts. The goal is to guide the officer toward a better understanding.

Bringing it to Northia

At Northia, I’ve helped many clients successfully navigate the reconsideration process. If you’ve received a refusal and aren’t sure what to do next, I can review your case and help you decide whether reconsideration is the right path.

It’s not just about knowing the system, it’s about understanding your story and helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.

If you’re ready to talk about your next step, book your appointment. I’m here to guide you through every step of the process.

At Northia, your journey is our mission.