Top Mistakes That Get Canadian Work Permit Applications Refused (2025 Guide)
Getting a job offer in Canada is a big step — but it’s not a guarantee that you’ll receive a work permit. Every year, thousands of applications are refused by IRCC due to avoidable errors or missing documentation.
In this guide, we highlight the most common mistakes that lead to Canadian work permit refusals in 2025 and show you how to avoid them.
Why Do Canadian Work Permit Applications Get Refused?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) officers assess each application based on legality, credibility, and completeness. If an application raises red flags — or simply lacks required information — it may be denied.
Even strong applicants can be refused due to:
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- Lack of proof of ties to home country
- Unclear job offers or LMIA issues
- Failing to meet eligibility criteria
Let’s go over the top 7 mistakes.
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documents
This is one of the most common reasons for refusal. Incomplete or contradictory forms, unverified credentials, or unclear/untranslated documents can result in a quick rejection.
Avoid it by:
- Reading the document checklists carefully and making sure the documents are compliant
- Providing certified translations where necessary
- Analyzing for inconsistencies
2. Job Offer Errors
If your job offer lacks detail or doesn’t meet IRCC standards, it may be considered insufficient, or even worse, non-genuine.
Red flags include:
- Vague job descriptions
- Failing to correspond to the correct NOC code
- Missing salary, benefits or contract terms
- Employer history
Avoid it by:
- Getting advice! This is a primary concern of officers
- Making sure the job offer is detailed, complies with ALL of the requirements and is signed by the authorized person
- Confirming your employer submitted an offer through the Employer Portal (if LMIA-exempt)
- Ensuring the LMIA is included, if applicable
3. Not Demonstrating Intent to Leave Canada
For temporary permits, officers must be satisfied that you will leave Canada once your permit expires — even if your goal is permanent residency.
Avoid it by:
- Showing strong ties to your home country (job, assets, property, family) – this requires solid documentation
- Writing a clear statement about your intentions and plans for the future
- Avoiding inconsistencies across applications
4. LMIA Problems or Incorrect LMIA-Exemption Codes
If an LMIA is required and it’s missing, expired or your duties don’t match the requirements, your application will be refused.
Avoid it by:
- Verifying your LMIA is valid and matches your job offer
- Using the correct LMIA-exemption code if applying through the International Mobility Program
- Ensuring your employer submitted the offer in the Employer Portal if required
- Cross-check everything!
5. Medical or Security Issues
Certain jobs require medical exams, and some countries require police certificates. If you fail to provide these (or fail the exam), your application may be denied.
Avoid it by:
- Completing your medical exam with a panel physician when required
- Providing recent police clearance certificates
- Disclosing all relevant background information
6. Misrepresentation or Inconsistencies with Previous Applications
IRCC tracks your entire immigration history. If you’ve ever provided inconsistent information or left out key details, your application may be flagged — or lead to a 5-year ban for misrepresentation.
We see this all the time and it can be avoided!
Avoid it by:
- Always getting proper advice
- Reviewing all past applications before applying
- Correcting any known errors proactively
- Being fully honest about your immigration history
7. Applying Under the Wrong Work Permit Category
Applying for an LMIA-exempt permit when one is not justified, or using the wrong stream, can trigger refusal.
Avoid it by:
- Understanding whether your job falls under:
- Global Talent Stream
- Intra-company transfer
- Spousal Open Work Permit
- International Agreements (e.g., CUSMA, CETA)
- Getting professional advice before submitting
What Happens After a Refusal?
If your work permit is refused, you have three options:
- Reapply with stronger documentation and corrections
- Request GCMS notes to see the reason for refusal
- Consider judicial review in Federal Court in very specific circumstances
Elliott Immigration Corporation is Here to Help You
Need Help With Your Work Permit Application?
At Elliott Immigration Corporation, we specialize in helping clients:
Avoid costly mistakes
Choose the right work permit stream
Analyze history, inconsistencies, previous refusals, mistakes and all other relevant info
Prepare complete, accurate applications
Don’t let a preventable error derail your Canadian work dreams. Book a consultation today and apply with confidence.
