Canada attracts many immigrants due to its high standard of living, strong economy, social programs, cultural diversity, and welcoming immigration policies. According to the Government of Canada, over 341,000 permanent residents were admitted to the country in 2020.
But despite the promise of welcoming many immigrants, Canada also refuses entry of many applicants. There are several reasons why some applicants may fail to obtain permanent residence in Canada.
Table of Contents
Failed PR Applications
Incomplete or inaccurate information on the application
Applicants must provide accurate and complete information on their application, failure to do so may result in the application being denied.
We covered some guides such as the Express Entry pathway, but policies may have also changed so applicants also need to perform diligence to be able to provide the latest list of requirements.
Canada’s immigration process can be complicated due to various factors such as:
- Complex eligibility criteria: Immigrants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on factors such as their education, work experience, language proficiency, and more.
- Lengthy processing times: The immigration process can take several months or even years, which can be frustrating for many applicants.
- Changing immigration policies: Canada’s immigration policies and procedures are subject to change, and this can make it difficult for applicants to understand and comply with the current requirements.
- Document requirements: Immigrants must provide a large number of documents to support their application, and this can be a complex and time-consuming process.
- Legal representation: In some cases, it may be necessary to seek legal representation to navigate the immigration process and avoid common pitfalls.
Medical or security concerns:
If an applicant or a family member has a medical condition or a criminal record, they may be denied permanent residence.
In Canada, certain medical conditions can make an individual inadmissible for immigration purposes. The following are examples of medical conditions that may result in inadmissibility:
- Communicable diseases: Such as tuberculosis, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections.
- Mental disorders: Including certain severe forms of depression, anxiety, or psychosis that pose a risk to public safety.
- Physical disorders: Including conditions that pose a risk to public health, such as uncontrolled epilepsy or a history of substance abuse.
- Developmental disorders: Including conditions such as autism, intellectual disability, and learning disorders that may affect an individual’s ability to support themselves in Canada.
It is important to note that each case is evaluated on its own merits, and a medical condition does not automatically result in inadmissibility. An immigration medical examination may be required to assess the impact of a medical condition on an individual’s ability to live and work in Canada.
Lack of qualifications
If an applicant does not meet the qualifications for the specific immigration program they have applied for, their application may be denied.
The top qualifications needed in Canada vary depending on the industry and location, but generally, the following are in high demand:
- Technology: Skills in software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis are in high demand in Canada’s growing technology sector.
- Healthcare: Health professionals such as nurses, doctors, and specialists are in high demand in Canada, particularly in rural and remote areas.
- Trades: Skilled tradespeople, such as electricians, carpenters, and plumbers, are in high demand due to a shortage of workers in these fields.
- Financial services: Professionals with experience in finance, accounting, and investment are in demand in Canada’s growing financial services sector.
- Sales and marketing: Candidates with experience in sales and marketing, particularly in digital marketing, are in demand as businesses seek to expand their reach and engage with customers online.
- Engineering: Engineers with experience in electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering are in demand in various industries, including construction, energy, and transportation.
- Business and management: Professionals with experience in business management, administration, and human resources are in demand across various industries in Canada.
Not only do authorities look into qualifications; but the length of experience across certain industries also counts.
Insufficient funds
Applicants must demonstrate that they have enough funds to support themselves and their families upon arrival in Canada. If they cannot demonstrate this, their application may be denied.
The minimum funds required for Canadian immigration vary depending on the size of the family and the immigration program.
For example, the minimum funds required for an individual applying as a Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) is CAD 12,960. This amount increases with the addition of each dependant.
For individuals applying under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), the minimum funds required may vary by province and can be found on each province’s immigration website.
Inadmissibility
An applicant may be inadmissible to Canada for various reasons, such as criminal activity, security concerns, or human rights violations. Individuals with a criminal record, including those convicted of a crime, may be inadmissible to Canada.
Also, individuals who pose a threat to national security, such as members of a terrorist organization, may be refused entry to Canada. As part of the country’s commitment to promoting human rights, individuals who have been involved in human rights violations or war crimes may be refused entry to Canada.
Applicants who have been previously deported from Canada or who have a history of violating immigration laws may be refused entry to Canada.
Lack of documents
Some applicants fail to provide the required documents to support their application, leading to rejection. Applicants who are not granted permanent residence status fail to submit one or more of the following documents when applying for Canadian immigration:
- Police certificates: A police certificate is required to demonstrate that the applicant has no criminal record.
- Language test results: Most immigration programs require applicants to demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in English or French through a language test.
- Educational credentials: Original educational credentials, such as diplomas and transcripts, are required to assess an applicant’s education and work experience.
- Medical examination results: An immigration medical examination is required for most applicants, and the results must be submitted as part of the application.
- Proof of funds: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependants in Canada.
- Supporting documents for dependants: Applicants must provide documentation for each of their dependants, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and passport copies.
- Reference letters: Some immigration programs require reference letters from previous employers or personal contacts to support an applicant’s experience and skills.
Misrepresentation
Giving false information or withholding relevant information may result in the application being denied and the applicant being barred from entering Canada for five years.
Misrepresentation can occur at any stage of the process, from the initial application to post-arrival in Canada.
Examples of misrepresentation in the immigration process include:
- Providing false information about identity: Misrepresenting your name, date of birth, or other personal information.
- Omitting information: Failing to disclose information that is relevant to your immigration application, such as a criminal record or previous immigration violations.
- Providing false documents: Submitting fake or altered documents, such as educational credentials or medical certificates.
- Concealing information about dependants: Failing to disclose information about dependants who will accompany applicants to Canada, or misrepresenting their relationship with applicants.
- Misrepresenting qualifications or work experience: Providing false information about your education, work experience, or language proficiency.
Processing delays
The process of obtaining permanent residence in Canada can be lengthy, some applicants may fail due to the delays in processing.
Delays in immigration processing do not necessarily result in the refusal of an application. However, long processing times can be a source of frustration and uncertainty for applicants.
There are many factors that can cause delays in immigration processing, including high volumes of applications, the complexity of the case, and the need for additional information or documentation.
In some cases, the immigration department may prioritize certain applications over others, such as those that are time-sensitive or are considered to be a priority.
Lack of language proficiency
To meet the eligibility requirements for certain immigration programs, applicants must demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in English or French. Failure to do so can result in the refusal of issuance of a PR status to applicants.
Lack of job offer
Some immigration programs require a valid job offer to be eligible. It’s not enough to have the skills as determined by the Canadian government. There must also be a local demand for those skills.
Conclusion
It is important for applicants to thoroughly research and understand the requirements for the specific immigration program they are applying for, and to ensure that their application is complete and accurate. It is also important to be aware of the risks of misrepresentation and to provide accurate and honest information in their applications.
