Common Mistakes in PR Applications to avoid

May 14, 2025

Ishita Soni

Choosing the Wrong NOC Code

What’s the issue?

Your job title isn’t enough. Immigration officers care more about what you actually do at work.

What can go wrong?

If your job duties don’t match the NOC code you picked, your application can be delayed or even rejected.

Example:

Maria says she’s a “Marketing Specialist,” but her daily work is more like a Social Media Assistant. Since these are two different NOC codes, her application may not match the right criteria.

Tip:

Read the official NOC description and duties carefully. Pick the one that matches your tasks, not just your job title.

Not Reporting Personal Changes

What’s the issue?

Life changes—like getting married, divorced, having a child, or changing jobs—must be reported to IRCC.

What can go wrong?

If you don’t tell them, it might be counted as dishonesty, and your application could be denied or banned for 5 years.

Example:

Leo got married after submitting his application but didn’t inform IRCC. This caused issues later when they found out.

Tip:

Always keep your application updated with life changes—even if you think it’s not important.

Weak Proof of Work Experience

What’s the issue?

It’s not just about how long you worked — you must show detailed proof that matches the program rules.

What can go wrong?

If your work was unpaid, part-time, or not properly documented, it might not count.

Example:

Sara worked freelance for 2 years but didn’t have official contracts or pay slips. That made her experience hard to verify.

Tip:

Get proper job letters with duties, hours worked, salary, and company details. Keep everything organized and official.

Expired or Unaccepted Language Test

What’s the issue?

Language test results are only valid for 2 years, and not all tests are accepted for PR.

What can go wrong?

If your test is too old or not approved by IRCC, your application can be refused.

Example:

Jamal submitted his PR application with an expired IELTS test. Even though he had a good score, it didn’t count.

Tip:

Make sure your test is recent and from a recognized provider like IELTS or CELPIP for English, or TEF for French.

Not Understanding Program Requirements

What’s the issue?

Each immigration program has its own rules. If you apply under the wrong one, your application may be refused.

What can go wrong?

Experience gained during full-time studies or volunteer work often doesn’t count for certain programs.

Example:

Ravi applied under Canadian Experience Class but his work was during school on a part-time permit. This didn’t meet the program rules.

Tip:

Before applying, read the program guide carefully. If you’re unsure, talk to a licensed immigration advisor.

Missing Medical or Police Clearance

What’s the issue?

Everyone applying for PR (including family members) must pass medical and police checks.

What can go wrong?

Even if you qualify in every other way, you can be refused if you or a family member has a medical or criminal issue.

Example:

Lina’s husband had a past criminal charge that they didn’t mention. This made their whole family’s application inadmissible.

Tip:

Be upfront about any health or legal issues. Sometimes, there are legal ways to deal with them, especially with expert help.

Final Checklist:

• Pick the correct NOC based on your job tasks
• Report any changes in your personal life
• Provide strong proof of paid, recent work
• Use a valid, accepted language test
• Fully understand the program rules before applying
• Don’t skip medical and police checks

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).

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