Working for a multinational company can open doors to incredible opportunities. Being transferred to another country often means career growth, higher earnings, and new experiences. However, moving to Canada for work is not always straightforward. If your intra-company transfer work permit application has been denied, it can be frustrating and stressful. Let’s break down why applications get refused and how you can turn things around.
Why Was Your Application Denied?
A rejection doesn’t always mean the end of the road. Immigration officers refuse applications for several reasons, including:
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documents
Something as simple as missing a form, an expired passport, or incorrect details can lead to rejection. Immigration officers need clear and accurate information to process applications smoothly.
2. Not Meeting Eligibility Requirements
The Canada intra-company transfer work permit has strict criteria. Your company must have a qualifying relationship with the Canadian branch, and you must hold a key role, such as a manager or specialist. If your application didn’t clearly show that you met these conditions, it may have been refused.
3. Insufficient Proof of Work Experience
If immigration officers believe you lack the necessary experience, they might reject your application. You need to show strong evidence, such as employment letters, job descriptions, and contracts, proving your role and expertise.
4. Issues with the Employer
Your employer in Canada must meet legal requirements, including proper registration and compliance with Canadian labour laws. If the company has any issues, such as unpaid taxes or violations, it could affect your permit approval.
5. Concerns About Returning to Your Home Country
Even though this work permit is temporary, immigration officials may deny it if they think you won’t return after your assignment. Showing strong ties to your home country-like property ownership or family commitments-can help.
Steps to Overcome a Work Permit Refusal
1. Read the Refusal Letter Carefully
After a rejection, you’ll receive a letter explaining why. This document is crucial—it tells you exactly what went wrong. Before making any decisions, go through it carefully and identify the specific reasons for the refusal.
2. Correct the Mistakes and Reapply
If the issue was missing paperwork or minor errors, you might just need to fix them and submit a new application. Double-check all forms, attach the right documents, and ensure everything is accurate before reapplying.
3. Provide Stronger Evidence
If the rejection was due to insufficient proof, gather more solid documents. For example:
- Ask your employer for a more detailed letter explaining your role.
- Include contracts, payslips, and past performance reviews.
- Provide organisational charts showing your position within the company.
4. Address Concerns Raised in the Refusal
Did the immigration officer doubt your intent to return home? If so, provide proof like property records, ongoing job commitments, or family ties. If they questioned your employer’s eligibility, ask your company to clarify their legal standing.
5. Consider Filing an Appeal or Requesting Reconsideration
If you believe your application was wrongly refused, you may have the option to request appealing the decision. However, this process can be complex, and it’s often best to get legal assistance.
Turning a Setback into a Comeback
A refused work permit doesn’t mean your Canadian job opportunity is over. By understanding the reason for the refusal, fixing any mistakes, and strengthening your case, you can improve your chances of approval. If you need to reapply or appeal the decision, taking the right steps can lead to success. If you’re facing challenges with your intra-company transfer work permit, professional legal guidance can make all the difference.