IRCC Refusal Codes Explained

The most common visitor-visa refusal: the officer was not satisfied you would leave Canada by the end of your authorized stay.

The study-permit equivalent of the 'will leave Canada' refusal: the officer was not satisfied you would depart at the end of your authorized stay.

The work-permit 'will leave Canada' refusal: the officer was not satisfied you would depart at the end of your authorized period.

A finding under section 40 that you directly or indirectly misrepresented or withheld a material fact — one of the most serious refusal grounds, carrying a five-year inadmissibility.

Inadmissibility for an act or omission that contravenes the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act — often tied to another underlying issue.

A sponsorship refusal where the officer found the relationship was entered primarily for immigration purposes, or is not genuine.

Inadmissibility on security grounds — a serious and complex finding that generally requires professional legal advice.

Inadmissibility for human or international rights violations, including war crimes, crimes against humanity, and certain senior official roles.

Inadmissibility based on criminal history — either 'serious criminality' or 'criminality' — assessed by Canadian-equivalent offences.

Inadmissibility for membership in a criminal organization or involvement in transnational crimes such as smuggling or trafficking.

Inadmissibility on health grounds: danger to public health, danger to public safety, or excessive demand on health or social services.

Inadmissibility that flows from a family member's inadmissibility — your application can be affected by an accompanying member's status.