Common Mistakes in PR Applications to avoid
Common Immigration Mistakes That Can Cost You Your PR Application
Applying for Canadian immigration requires accuracy, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of the rules. Unfortunately, many strong applicants face refusals due to avoidable mistakes. Below are some of the most common errors—and how you can prevent them.
1. Choosing the Wrong NOC Code
What’s the Issue?
Your job title alone is not enough. Instead, immigration officers focus on what you actually do at work on a daily basis.
What Can Go Wrong?
If your job duties don’t align with the NOC code you selected, IRCC may delay your file or refuse it outright.
Tip
Always match your NOC to your job duties, not your job title. Therefore, read the official NOC description carefully before selecting a code.
2. Not Reporting Personal Changes
What’s the Issue?
Life doesn’t stop after you submit your application. Events such as marriage, divorce, childbirth, or job changes must be reported to IRCC.
What Can Go Wrong?
If you fail to update IRCC, they may treat it as misrepresentation, which can lead to refusal or even a five-year ban.
Tip
Always update IRCC immediately. Even if the change seems minor, transparency protects your application.
3. Weak Proof of Work Experience
What’s the Issue?
It’s not enough to say you worked somewhere. Instead, you must prove your work experience clearly and properly, according to program rules.
What Can Go Wrong?
If your work was unpaid, informal, part-time without clarity, or poorly documented, IRCC may refuse to count it.
Tip
Collect detailed reference letters that include:
- Job duties
- Hours worked
- Salary
- Employer contact details
In addition, keep all documents organized and consistent.
4. Using an Expired or Unaccepted Language Test
What’s the Issue?
Language test results are only valid for two years, and IRCC accepts only specific tests.
What Can Go Wrong?
If you submit an expired test—or a test IRCC doesn’t recognize—your application will be refused, even if your scores were high.
Tip
Before applying, double-check that:
- Your test is still valid
- The test is IRCC-approved (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF)
5. Not Understanding Program Requirements
What’s the Issue?
Each immigration program has its own eligibility rules. Therefore, applying under the wrong program can quickly lead to refusal.
What Can Go Wrong?
For example, work done during full-time studies or volunteer work often doesn’t count under certain programs.
Tip
Always read the official program guide carefully. If you feel unsure, consult a licensed immigration professional before applying.
6. Missing Medical or Police Clearance
What’s the Issue?
Every PR applicant—and all accompanying family members—must pass medical exams and police background checks.
What Can Go Wrong?
Even if you qualify in every other way, IRCC can still refuse your application due to medical inadmissibility or criminal concerns.
Tip
Be honest and upfront. In many cases, legal remedies or exemptions may apply, but only if issues are disclosed early.
Final PR Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
✔ Chosen the correct NOC based on actual job duties
✔ Reported all personal and family changes
✔ Provided strong proof of paid, eligible work experience
✔ Submitted a valid, IRCC-approved language test
✔ Fully understood your chosen immigration program
✔ Completed medical exams and police clearances
Final Thought
Most PR refusals happen not because applicants are unqualified, but because of small, avoidable mistakes. By preparing carefully and staying transparent, you can significantly improve your chances of success.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Canada. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
