Express Entry application rejected: what next?

Understanding inadmissibility under the Canadian Immigration Act - A simplified guide

Express Entry is a fast and efficient system for immigrating to Canada, but unfortunately, some applications are turned down. Whether you applied through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), a refusal can be frustrating and disappointing.

But don't panic! A refusal is not always final. There are options for re-examining your file or contesting the decision. Let's explore the common causes of refusal and possible remedies.

Why was my Express Entry application rejected?

A refusal can be caused by several factors, including:

Errors or omissions in your file

  • Missing or incorrect documents (e.g. insufficient proof of funds, expired language test results, diplomas not validated by an EDE).
  • Voluntary or involuntary misrepresentation.

Non-compliance with program criteria

  • If you applied under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), your score may be too low.
  • For the Federal Skilled Trades Workers Program (FSTWP), you need to prove valid work experience in an eligible trade.
  • For the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), each province has its own criteria and requirements.

Safety or medical problems

Criminal history or health problems rendering the applicant inadmissible.

Problems of procedural fairness

If the immigration officer has overlooked certain documents or made a mistake in analyzing the file, there may be a procedural irregularity.

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Express Entry Refusal: What can I do?

Good news: a refusal does not necessarily mean the end of your immigration project! You have several options for reacting effectively.

Check whether or not you are inadmissible

First of all, you need to know whether your refusal is related to an inadmissibility (e.g. criminal history, medical reasons).

  • If so, you should consult an expert to see if you can apply for a criminal pardon or a temporary residence permit.
  • If not, you can consider a new application or reconsideration.

Request an administrative review

If you think an error has been made, you can ask IRCC to review your file.

🟢 When is a review possible?

  • If important documents have been overlooked.
  • If the agent has misinterpreted any information.
  • If you have evidence that the decision is unjustified.

🔴 When a review is no use?

  • If you simply haven't reached the required score.
  • If you have made a mistake in your file that cannot be corrected.

Challenging the decision in court

If the refusal is based on a legal error or a lack of procedural fairness, you can file a judicial review to contest the refusal before the Federal Court of Canada.

⚖️ How does it work?

  • An immigration lawyer prepares an application to contest the decision.
  • If the court agrees to review your case, a judge will assess whether the immigration officer made a mistake.
  • If you win, your case will be re-examined by a new agent.

⏳ Time to act

You have 15 days (if you are in Canada) or 60 days (if you are abroad) to contest a refusal.

Submit a new request

Sometimes, the best option is simply to submit a new Express Entry profile after correcting past mistakes, in the hope of receiving a new invitation when Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) processes new draws.

💡 Tips to avoid another rejection :

✔️ Please check all your documents before submitting.
✔️ Improve your GCS score (e.g.: better score on language test, validated job offer).
✔️ If you are applying via a PCP, make sure you meet the provincial criteria.

Need help disputing a decision or reapplying?

A refusal can be complex to manage on your own. To maximize your chances, we strongly recommend consulting our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCC).

👨‍💼 Why call in an expert?

✅ Detailed analysis of your refusal and personalized advice.
✅ Assistance with a review or legal challenge.
✅ Help in preparing a new, solid and complete application.

Don't let a rejection put an end to your dream of living in Canada! Contact us today for an evaluation of your file and explore your options for successful immigration.

📩 Ready to take action? Contact us today!

Summary of possible actions after an Express Entry rejection

Reason for refusalPossible solutions
Missing or incorrect documentsRe-examination or re-application / Consultation with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to avoid further mistakes
Score too lowProfile improvement and new application / Consultation with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to avoid further mistakes
Immigration bansConsultation with an immigration expert (lawyer or immigration consultant)
Immigration officer errorReconsideration or legal challenge / Consultation with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to determine the right option
Provincial Nominee Program criteria not metVerification of criteria and new application / Consultation with our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant to avoid further mistakes

Have you ever received a refusal for Express Entry? Tell me where you stand, and I'll guide you to the best solution!

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