Appeals & Judicial Review
Most refusals can be challenged — but the path depends on the program. Sponsorship and removal cases go to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD). Most other refusals require Federal Court judicial review (or sometimes a reconsideration request first). This pillar walks through every avenue.
What this section covers
- Reading a refusal letter — what each section means
- Reconsideration requests — when to use, how to write
- Federal Court judicial review — leave application, grounds, timelines
- IAD appeals — sponsorship, residency obligation, removal orders
- Procedural fairness letters and how to respond
- Section 40 IRPA misrepresentation — 5-year ban consequences
- Section 44 reports and inadmissibility hearings
- Mandamus applications for delay
- Criminal inadmissibility and how to overcome it
- Medical inadmissibility and excessive demand
- Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
Latest in Appeals & Judicial Review
2 articles
Ghana's Partey hopes for positive outcome after appeal over Canadian visa…
Ghanaian footballer Thomas Partey is awaiting a decision on his appeal regarding a Canadian visa refusal, which he hopes will yield a positive outcome. The appeal comes after Partey was denied entry to Canada, impacting his plans to participate in an upcoming event.
Read article →Immigration lawyers say automation is partly driving a massive Federal…
Immigration lawyers are pointing to increased automation in Canada's immigration system as a contributing factor to a growing backlog of cases in Federal Court, [as reported by CP24](https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiyAFBVV95cUxQRk5uVXE4N1hoR2U5dmxvdEVUSGozbXd5QnlNdllCbUh3
Read article →Frequently asked questions
Can I appeal a refused study permit or work permit?
There is no formal appeal for most temporary resident decisions. Options are (1) request reconsideration, (2) reapply with a stronger application, or (3) seek Federal Court judicial review of the decision. JR is procedural — it does not re-decide the case but can quash the refusal and send it back.
What is a procedural fairness letter?
A procedural fairness letter (PFL) is a notice that IRCC has concerns that may lead to refusal — for example, doubts about a marriage's genuineness or suspected misrepresentation. You usually have 7–30 days to respond with evidence rebutting the concern.
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