IRCC lists frequent errors in permanent residency forms

A newly released 447-page training guide by Canadian immigration authorities sheds light on the top mistakes that often lead to permanent resident (PR) application refusals. The guide, used to train immigration officers, highlights real examples of errors made by applicants and explains how such mistakes can delay or ruin their chances of approval.

Wrong Job Code Can Sink Your Application

One of the biggest red flags is choosing the wrong National Occupational Classification (NOC) code. Officers don’t just look at the job title. They carefully compare job duties with the lead statement and essential tasks listed in the NOC system.

Example:
Diana from the Philippines listed her job as a Contact Centre Supervisor. But her actual duties matched a lower-skilled Complaints Clerk role. This mismatch raised concerns and triggered further review.

What to do:
Match your job duties, not just the title, to the correct NOC code. Proper research is key.

Life Changes Must Be Reported

Applicants must report any changes in personal circumstances, such as a divorce or a new job. Failure to do so can lead to accusations of misrepresentation, refusal, or even a five-year ban.

Example:
Amar got divorced after receiving his invitation to apply. His score dropped below the required threshold, and his application was rejected.

What to do:
Always declare life changes honestly. It’s better to update your profile and re-enter the pool than risk refusal.

Work Experience Must Meet Requirements

Applicants must prove they have at least one year of full-time, continuous, paid work within the last 10 years. Unpaid, part-time, or freelance work often doesn’t count.

Example:
Om Kapoor had decades of acting experience but didn’t meet the one-year continuous work rule in the past 10 years. His application was refused.

What to do:
Ensure your recent work fits all required conditions for your chosen immigration stream.

Expired Language Tests Can Ruin Applications

Language test scores must be valid at the time of submission and come from approved test providers. Expired or invalid tests lead to automatic rejection.

Example:
Laura submitted her PR application with a test result that expired two weeks earlier. Despite meeting the score, the application was denied.

What to do:
Use only IRCC-approved language tests and check their expiration dates before applying.

Misunderstanding Program Rules Is Costly

Each immigration program has unique requirements. For example, work done while studying full-time does not count under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Example:
Auston listed his experience as a Research Assistant while studying full-time. This did not qualify for CEC, even though the job was real and paid.

What to do:
Understand the exact rules of your program. If unsure, consult an expert.

Medical and Police Checks Still Matter

Applicants must clear medical and police checks—even if they meet all other criteria. A single family member’s inadmissibility can affect the entire application.

Example:
Apu’s wife was found medically inadmissible due to a kidney condition. As a result, Apu’s PR application was denied under immigration law.

What to do:
Be aware of medical and criminal history issues. Legal help may offer solutions in complex cases.