Reconsideration Request to IRCC - Immigration Lawyer
If your visa, study permit, or permanent residence application was refused, you may be able to submit a reconsideration request asking the IRCC to review the decision. At Ayodele Law, our immigration lawyers prepare detailed, respectful requests that identify errors and give your application a fair second look.
What Is a Reconsideration Request to IRCC?
A reconsideration request IRCC is a written submission asking the same visa officer or decision-making office to review your application again. It is not an appeal or a judicial review, but an administrative remedy that can often resolve a refusal faster and more cost-effectively than going to court. This option may apply to visitor visas, study permits, work permits, and permanent residence applications where IRCC may have misunderstood documents or misapplied immigration policy.
A reconsideration request provides a chance to correct errors before pursuing a judicial review or filing a new application..
Who Can Request IRCC Reconsideration?
A reconsideration request to IRCC can be made for:
Temporary Resident Visas (visitor, study, or work permits)
Permanent Residence (economic, family, or humanitarian categories)
Citizenship or Travel Document applications
Restoration of Status or Post-Graduate Work Permits
Because timing is critical, it is best to act within 30 days and consult an immigration lawyer for professional advice before your file becomes inactive.
How Do You Submit a Reconsideration Request to IRCC? (Step-by-step guide).
| Step | Description |
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✓
Write a Clear and Respectful Letter
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Address your letter to the IRCC office that issued the refusal. Include your full name, date of birth, UCI number, and application number. Keep the tone professional, courteous, and concise. |
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✓
Explain Why the Decision Was Incorrect
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Identify specific mistakes or oversights in the refusal. For example, if IRCC claimed you failed to submit biometrics but you have proof they were provided, reference the confirmation receipt or submission proof. |
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✓
Attach Supporting Documents
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Include your refusal letter and any materials showing IRCC’s error or oversight (e.g., webform confirmation emails, screenshots of uploaded files, or Visa Application Centre receipts). |
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✓
Submit Through IRCC Webform or Email
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Most requests are submitted via the IRCC webform. Upload all attachments together and save the submission confirmation for your records. |
There is no fee to submit a reconsideration request. However, acting quickly and submitting a well-supported letter increases your chances of success.
Reconsideration Request IRCC Sample Letter
Example (Excerpt):
Dear Officer,
I am writing to respectfully request reconsideration of my application (Application Number: XXXXXXX), which was refused on [date]. I believe the decision may have been based on an oversight regarding [brief explanation].
I have attached supporting documentation that clarifies this information. I respectfully request that my application be reopened and reconsidered.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[UCI Number]
[Contact Information]
Reconsideration Request IRCC for Visitor Visa
If your visitor visa application was refused for missing or incomplete documentation—even though you submitted it—consider filing a reconsideration request.
Common errors include IRCC failing to link uploaded files, misreading intent of travel, or overlooking strong family or financial ties. A well-written reconsideration request can sometimes resolve these issues without needing to reapply.
Why Choose Ayodele Law for Your Reconsideration Request to IRCC
At Ayodele Law, we help clients challenge unfair immigration refusals through precise, respectful, and evidence-based reconsideration requests.
- IRCC Reconsideration Expertise — We identify errors and legal grounds to justify a second review.
- Persuasive Legal Submissions — Each request is built on strong evidence and policy references.
- Fast, Strategic Action — We act quickly to keep your file active and protect your rights.
- Direct Lawyer Access — You work one-on-one with Tracy Ayodele for personalized guidance.
- Next-Step Support — If IRCC doesn’t respond, we advise on judicial review options.
Combining legal precision and compassion, we help you secure a fair second look at your immigration decision.
Have a question? Contact us below.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) Reconsideration Requests
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A reconsideration request is a written submission asking Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or another immigration office to review a refusal decision. It’s not a formal appeal, but a request for the same decision-maker to take a second look based on new facts, errors, or fairness concerns.
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You should make the request as soon as possible after receiving the refusal—ideally within 30 days. Acting quickly increases the chances that IRCC will review your file before it’s closed or transferred.
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No. A reconsideration is an informal, administrative request to the same decision-maker.
If it’s denied, you may still have the option to file a judicial review at the Federal Court.
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You may follow up after 6 weeks or consider applying for leave and judicial review at the Federal Court of Canada.
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While not mandatory, working with an immigration lawyer helps ensure your arguments and evidence meet IRCC’s legal standards.