Refused by Canada? What a Reconsideration Request Can and Cannot Do

After a Canadian refusal, applicants have broadly two routes: request reconsideration of the existing decision, or file a fresh application with the weaknesses fixed. Choosing correctly saves months.

Start with the reasons, not the emotion

1. 1 Read the refusal letter and note every ground checked.
2. 2 Where available, obtain the officer's notes on your file to understand the actual reasoning.
3. 3 Map each ground to a document that exists, was submitted, and was perhaps overlooked — or to one that was genuinely missing.

When reconsideration makes sense

• A document you submitted was clearly not considered.
• A factual error in the reasoning — a misread date, employer or relationship.
• A material change that is directly relevant and easy to evidence.
• The refusal ground is narrow and answerable in a page.

When a fresh application is better

• The refusal turns on weak ties, weak funds or an unconvincing purpose — these need a rebuilt file, not a letter.
• Your circumstances have changed substantially since the refusal.
• Your travel dates have moved, so the itinerary must change anyway.

What a good request looks like

Short, factual, and organised ground by ground. It quotes the refusal reason, states what the evidence shows, and points to the exact page of the exact document. It does not argue about fairness, and it never adds pressure or emotion.

Want this checked against your own case?

Share your travel purpose and circumstances and we will tell you what is likely to matter — honestly, including when it is not the right time to apply.