The Canadian Express Entry system refers to the process through which potential skilled immigrants can be granted PR status in Canada. Despite the efficiency of the process, the applicant has to fulfill certain requirements and provide accurate paperwork to increase the chances of the application not being rejected. Even when well-prepared, many are turned down for reasons of seemingly minor omissions or procedural inefficiencies. Speaking with immigration lawyers in Canada will help the applicants get the required information on how to maneuver through the system in order to apply for the Express Entry system effectively.

Common Reasons for Express Entry PR Refusal

It is crucial to know the most frequent mistakes to have a higher chance of approval when applying for a loan. Below are the main reasons applications for Canadian PR through Express Entry may be refused:

1) Incomplete or Missing Documentation

One of the most frequent reasons for refusal is failure to submit required and/or sufficient documents. Canadian immigration requires several important documents, such as police clearance certificates, educational credential assessments (ECA), and proof of funds. Lack of any of these can lead to rejection, and this is all that they need to understand.

Another problem that can occur is having different names on various forms, for example, when the first and last names do not match. For instance, if you have different names on your passport and your degree certificate, immigration authorities may develop suspicion. Every document must be valid, consistent, and compliant with IRCC standards.

2) Lack of Proof of Funds

The applicants should show they have reasonable financial means to support themselves and their dependents on arrival in Canada. The proof of funds also depends on the number of dependents in the application, as mentioned in the following section. Lack of updated bank statements or not presenting an account balance as per the set standard makes many applicants lose their chances.

To avoid this, ensure that when preparing your bank statements, you make it clear to the lender that the amount is available for use and is easily accessible. IRCC does not accept locked-in investments or unavailable funds. Ideally, it is always good to keep an amount slightly higher than the required amount to cover any changes in the exchange rates.

3) Low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score

A low CRS score reduces the probability of being invited to apply for Permanent Residency in Canada. The CRS score is obtained from features such as age, education credentials, language proficiency, work experience, and adaptability. In case you score a number below the Comprehensive Ranking System for the Express Entry draw, you cannot be invited to apply.

A lot of the applicants also fail to understand the need to try and get the highest possible CRS score. For example, language test results are important; getting even two extra points for the IELTS or CELPIP test can significantly improve your CRS points. Also, the score can be increased by gaining more work experience or by continuing education.

4) Application Errors and Omissions

The Express Entry application form must be completed correctly and truthfully. It only takes a couple of wrong entries, wrong dates of birth, or even half-baked employment information to lead to rejection. Another common mistake is the omission of critical details, such as prior visa refusal in any country.

It is even wise to go through the application many times in order to reduce the chances of making mistakes. However, recruitment of immigration lawyers in Mississauga or any other qualified individuals can be another added advantage. They can easily spot errors and ensure your application is detailed and error-free.

5) Misrepresentation

Lying or providing false information in your application is a serious offense. If you provide incorrect information, your application will be rejected outright, and you will be barred for five years from applying for immigration to Canada. This includes inflating work experience, forging documents, or even creating fake job offers.

Unconscious bias can also cause significant problems and is punishable by law. For instance, if you mistakenly give fake information about your work experience, it will be considered fraud. It is important to provide information that is correct, genuine, and supported by official documents.

6) Expired or Invalid Documents

Another common reason is submitting expired or invalid documents. Passports, language test results, and ECAs must be valid at the time of application submission, though copies of documents may be accepted. Your application will be rejected if any of these expire before or during the processing period.

To avoid this, verify the validity of all the required documents before submitting them. If any are expiring soon, renew them as soon as possible. It is important to know that updating the documents at this stage may take time or even complicate the process.

7) Failure to Meet Eligibility Criteria

A lack of qualifying criteria often causes an Express Entry application to be refused. Three classes of such programs exist: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP). Each has its own criteria regarding work experience, education, and knowledge of one or more languages.

For example, when applying through FSWP, a minimum score of 67 on the selection grid should be attained, or else that application is essentially useless. An application will not be accepted as long as you do not meet any of the requirements, such as language proficiency or work experience. Read the applications’ guidelines before setting up your profile.

Final Thoughts

Being aware of the common refusal grounds and carrying out measures to avoid them is important as it complements an individual’s prospects of success. Seek professional assistance so that your application is complete, correctly done, and complies with all the IRCC guidelines. Without a doubt, immigration lawyers can make your way to Canadian Permanent Residency quickly and easily.

• Country: Canada