FAQ , Common Questions About Canadian Immigration
Refugee Claims in Canada
Can I make a refugee claim inside Canada? What are the requirements?
Yes, but you must first pass an eligibility screening. IRCC will assess whether you are eligible to make a claim. If you are eligible, your claim is referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) for a decision.
What is the general process for a refugee claim?
Typically, you submit the claim in Canada and go through an eligibility decision first. If eligible, the claim is referred to the IRB. You will then receive hearing-related notices and enter the preparation and decision stage.
How long is a refugee hearing, and is it public?
The IRB indicates most hearings take less than three hours. Hearings are confidential to help protect claimants and their families.
Can I work while waiting for a refugee claim decision? Can my family work too?
IRCC states that eligible refugee claimants may receive an open work permit while waiting for a decision. If family members are in Canada, included in the same claim, and plan to work, they may also be eligible for an open work permit.
Is there temporary health coverage while my refugee claim is in process? What does it cover?
IRCC’s Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) may provide short-term coverage for eligible claimants. IRCC explains the IFHP generally covers “urgent or essential” care. The source text also states that as of May 1, 2026, some supplemental benefits will have changes to out-of-pocket costs, while basic health coverage remains free.
Refused Visitor Visa (and other temporary residence)
My visitor visa was refused. Should I reapply right away?
Not always. IRCC indicates that whether you should reapply depends on the refusal reasons and whether your situation has changed. If you reapply with the same information, the result often won’t change. First, identify the refusal reasons and address them before deciding the next step.
If my temporary resident application (like a visitor visa) is refused, is there a formal appeal process?
IRCC explains that there is generally no formal appeal process for most refused temporary resident applications. A common approach is to reapply, but typically only when you can provide new information or meaningful changes that respond to the refusal reasons.
How long do I need to wait before reapplying after a refusal?
IRCC indicates you can usually reapply at any time (unless your refusal letter states a restriction). The key is ensuring you can provide new information that directly addresses the refusal reasons.
I don’t understand the refusal reasons in my refusal letter. What should I do first?
Use the refusal letter reasons as your checklist. Separate issues like missing documents, travel purpose, finances, and ties to your home country. Since reapplying with the same information rarely changes the outcome, the focus is strengthening evidence and presenting a clearer, consistent explanation.
If I hire a representative, will my next application be approved?
Not necessarily. Hiring a representative does not guarantee approval. However, a qualified representative can improve your chances by reviewing your refusal reasons, identifying weak points or missing evidence, and presenting your case more clearly and consistently. This includes strengthening supporting documents, clarifying your purpose and ties, and directly addressing the officer’s concerns in a structured way. Approval ultimately depends on whether the new application meaningfully resolves the refusal issues with stronger evidence and clearer explanations.
Visitor Status Planning (in Canada)
I’m in Canada as a visitor. Can I extend my stay?
Yes. You can apply to extend your stay (a visitor record). IRCC recommends applying at least 30 days before your status expires.
Which form is commonly used to extend or change visitor conditions?
IRCC indicates IMM 5708 is commonly used to apply to extend your stay or change conditions.
If I extend my study permit or work permit, does my TRV automatically renew?
No. IRCC states that a study permit or work permit is not a visa. Extending a permit does not automatically issue a new Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). If you need a new TRV, you must apply separately.
What’s the difference between a TRV and a visitor record?
IRCC explains that a TRV is placed in your passport and is used to travel to Canada and request entry. A visitor record sets or extends the conditions of your stay in Canada. They serve different purposes.
If I change my status to visitor, can I buy more time and apply for a study/work permit later from inside Canada?
IRCC warns that changing to visitor status may limit whether you can apply for a new study or work permit from inside Canada after your prior permit expires. So switching to visitor status does not always achieve the goal of extending time for other status options.
Express Entry / PNP / Family Sponsorship / PR Card (General)
How does Express Entry select candidates? How often are ITAs issued?
IRCC explains candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Invitation rounds happen multiple times throughout the year. Policy materials often describe draws as occurring about every two weeks, but applicants should rely on official IRCC announcements.
How is CRS calculated? What score do I need?
IRCC explains CRS is based on factors like skills, education, language, and work experience. The minimum score changes each round depending on the cut-off.
What’s the general approach for PNP through Express Entry?
IRCC explains that if you qualify for a provincial nomination and an Express Entry federal program, you typically apply for nomination first. Once nominated, you create or update your Express Entry profile and receive additional points, which can increase your chance of an ITA.
Who can I sponsor for permanent residence?
IRCC explains you may be able to sponsor a spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent child. Sponsored persons and their family members must pass background, security, and medical screening.
What happens if my PR card expires? Can I travel without a valid PR card?
IRCC explains an expired PR card does not mean you lose permanent resident status, and you can remain in Canada. However, returning to Canada on commercial transportation typically requires a valid PR card. Whether you can travel without one depends on your travel method and documents.
Contact Us
A4 International Immigration primarily serves Metro Vancouver, including Vancouver and surrounding cities. We also provide remote support across Canada, so clients in other provinces can access professional help.
If you’re unsure about the right direction, dealing with a complex file, have a prior refusal, or want a proper plan before taking action, contact us for an initial assessment.
