December 19, 2025
When and How to Request Reconsideration from IRCC: Guidance from a Trusted Immigration Consultant
Can IRCC Review a Refused Application? Understanding Your Options
Receiving a refusal letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can feel overwhelming. After months of preparation and anticipation, a refusal may seem like a major setback.
A question many applicants ask is:
“Can I request IRCC to review my application again?”
The answer is: Yes, but only under specific and well-supported circumstances.
At MyWorld Immigration, we have helped numerous clients prepare successful reconsideration requests. Below is a clear and comprehensive explanation of when this process applies and how to approach it.
What Is a Reconsideration Request?
An IRCC refusal is generally considered final. However, immigration officers do have limited authority to reopen or revisit a decision when exceptional circumstances exist.
A reconsideration request is a formal written submission asking IRCC to re-examine the decision because something may have been:
- procedurally incorrect,
- misinterpreted,
- overlooked, or
- missing but now available and relevant.
This is not an appeal and not a judicial review.
When Reconsideration May Be Appropriate
IRCC will consider reopening a file only when there is clear justification. Disagreeing with the decision on its own does not qualify.
You may have valid grounds for reconsideration if:
- You were not given the opportunity to respond to concerns, indicating a procedural fairness issue.
- There was a factual, clerical, or interpretation error in the decision.
- New and important evidence has become available after the refusal.
- You can clearly explain why this information was not previously submitted.
Submitting the request promptly after the refusal strengthens your chances.
How IRCC Reviews Reconsideration Requests
Once your request is sent, IRCC follows an internal process which usually involves:
- Review by the officer who originally issued the refusal, when possible.
- An assessment of whether your reasons justify reopening the case.
- Documentation of the decision and a written response to you.
IRCC records:
- who reviewed the request,
- the decision made,
- the date of the review,
- the reasoning behind the decision, and
- when the decision was communicated to the applicant.
If reconsideration is denied, you may still pursue a judicial review in Federal Court, which requires professional legal guidance.
When Reconsideration Is Not the Best Option
Reconsideration is not suitable for every refusal. It may not be effective if:
- your application was missing essential documents,
- you did not meet eligibility requirements, or
- the refusal was justified based on the information provided.
In such situations, filing a new and stronger application is often more strategic.
It is important to note that IRCC can reassess even approved cases when significant errors or misrepresentation are identified. Accuracy and honesty are essential throughout the application process.
The Importance of Professional Assistance
A strong reconsideration request is built on more than a simple letter. It requires:
- a detailed review of your GCMS notes,
- understanding the officer’s reasoning,
- identifying procedural or factual issues,
- effectively presenting new or overlooked evidence, and
- applying principles of administrative fairness and immigration law.
A licensed immigration consultant can help determine whether reconsideration is your best option or whether a reapplication or judicial review is more suitable.
Conclusion
A refusal does not necessarily end your plans to come to Canada, but the window to act is limited.
If you believe your application may have been refused because of an oversight or error, seeking professional guidance promptly is essential.
At MyWorld Immigration, we help clients:
- understand the reasons for refusal,
- choose the best possible next steps,
- prepare well-supported reconsideration requests, and
- submit strong reapplications when appropriate.
Every case is unique, and the right strategy can make all the difference.
Contact MyWorld Immigration
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
WhatsApp: +1-672-399-0000
Instagram: @myworldimmigration