# Home Knowledge base for Caips & Gcms Notes ![](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-Ml6hTIHJMqVafNfBxgY%2F-Ml6hkgs31IQpUwdtXvW%2Ffy21-atip-watch-gcms-notes-dot-com.jpg?alt=media\&token=786010fb-3717-4a16-b996-348e760318f0) ## 📒 GCMS, CBSA & Entire File * [What are GCMS & how to request](https://gcmsnotes.com/what-are-gcms-notes-and-how-do-you-request/) * [Why keep GCMS secure](https://gcmsnotes.com/your-gcms-notes-contains-sensitive-information-keep-it-secure/) 🔐 * [Can I obtain the GCMS on my own](https://gcmsnotes.com/can-i-obtain-the-gcms-notes-on-my-own/) * [What is UCI & File #, which one to use](https://gcmsnotes.com/what-is-uci-and-file-number-which-one-to-use-to-get-gcms/) * [Tracking GCMS Notes](https://gcmsnotes.com/tracking-gcms-notes/) * [Using an immigration lawyer](https://gcmsnotes.com/will-i-receive-more-information-if-i-retain-the-services-of-a-lawyer-or-a-registered-immigration-consultant/) * [What is CBSA Travel History Report](https://gcmsnotes.com/what-is-cbsa-travel-history-report/) * [All about Security Screening](https://gcmsnotes.com/frequently-asked-questions/) * [More FAQ's](https://gcmsnotes.com/frequently-asked-questions/)🚀 ## 👤 Visa Consultants * [Questions to ask your Consultant](https://gcmsnotes.com/questions-to-ask-your-canada-immigration-consultant/) * :arrow\_down: [*Download the Q\&A*](https://gcmsnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/Consumer-Guide-EN.pdf) # How to order Easy as 1 - 2 - 3 {% hint style="info" %} #### **Did you know?** The information you are requesting from IRCC can also be requested from CBSA. There can be situations when requesting from CBSA may be a better choice. [Learn more](https://gcmsnotes.com/gcms-from-ircc-vs-cbsa/) {% endhint %} {% hint style="danger" %} **While it may seem like a cool and money-saving tactic to go for the cheapest GCMS provider but in doing so you may be putting your personal information at risk.** [**Your GCMS Notes contains sensitive information, keep it secure!**](https://bit.ly/3h9LLps) Make sure you request your Gcms Notes from a reputable company, one that has been around for a long time and has a track record of superior results. We aim to provide you with an honest and transparent service, process your order promptly, answer your questions with courtesy and keep you informed along the way. {% endhint %} **Requesting your** [**GCMS Notes**](https://gcmsnotes.com/services-gcms-notes/)**,** [**Entire file**](https://gcmsnotes.com/services-entire-file-ircc-and-cbsa/) **or** [**CBSA Notes**](https://gcmsnotes.com/services-cbsa-notes/) **is as easy as 1-2-3** **STEP** 1️⃣ Start with the secure & easy to complete online order form **STEP** 2️⃣ Next make the payment using an option convenient to you **STEP** 3️⃣ The last step is to complete the [consent form](https://consent.gcmsnotes.com). Scan and e-mail it to us or upload it securely ## 👉 Get started by visiting this [link](https://gcmsnotes.com/order-details/) ## 🎞️ View a [sample Gcms file](https://sample.gcmsnotes.com) before you order # For Free How to order for free ## ⭕ Who can make a request for free? Any Canadian citizen, permanent resident or individual present in Canada has the right to access **their personal information** held by government institutions that are subject to the **Privacy Act**. {% hint style="success" %} There are no fees charged for requests made under the Privacy Act. {% endhint %} The purpose of the Privacy Act is to protect the privacy of individuals with respect to personal information about themselves where it is held by a government institution and to provide individuals with the right to access such information. {% hint style="danger" %} **Note**: Personal information which belongs to an individual who is not a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada or currently living in Canada must be requested under the **Access to Information Act,** in which case a [consent form](https://consent.gcmsnotes.com/) will be required. {% endhint %} ## ⭕ Checklist of what you will need To prove that you have the right to make a request, you must provide one of the following documents: a copy of your Canadian passport or your permanent resident card, or an official document that demonstrates you are currently living in Canada (i.e. a driver's license, bill with proof of address, work/study/visitor permit, etc). **Only one (1) document is required**. Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) will not be accepted. A [consent form](https://consent.gcmsnotes.com/) is **NOT** needed for a Privacy Act request since you are requesting your own information. ## ⭕ **What file types can I attach for my supporting documents with my online request?** The maximum size of each file is 2 MB (two megabytes). The following file formats are allowed: 1. Portable Document Format (PDF) 2. JPG, TIFF, or PNG (Image) 3. DOC, DOCX (Microsoft Word Document) ## ⭕ How-to * Visit the official IRCC website at and follow the online instructions. * The process has 4 steps 1. **Requester Information** *(see details below)* 2. **Act & Record Selection** *(see details below)* 1. *Important*. For the question "What type of information are you requesting?" Select "Privacy Act" to get your own information for free. 3. **Attach Documents** 4. **Review and Validate** {% hint style="info" %} **Requester Information** **Department:**\ **Eligibility:** \ **Family Name:**\ **Given Name(s) (First Name):**\ **Street Number:**\ **Street Name:**\ **Name of Business or Organization:**\ **Apt./Suite/Unit #:**\ **Post office box:** \ **City:**\ **Province/State:**\ **Country:**\ **Telephone Number:**\ **Fax Number:** \ **E-mail Address:**\ **Re-enter e-mail Address:**\ **Requesting information on your own behalf?** \ **Category of Requester:**\ **How would you prefer to receive requested records:** {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} **Act & Record Selection** **What type of information are you requesting**:\ **Language:** \ **Type of records do you wish to request:**\ **Family Name:**\ **Given Name(s) (First Name):**\ **Date of Birth:**\ **Client ID Number (UCI):**\ **Alias:** \ **Type of record would you like to request:**\ **Which specific information are you looking for:**\ **File Number:** {% endhint %} ## ⭕ How long will it take to obtain the GCMS notes? The legislated time-frame for processing a request under the Access to Information Act is 30 calendar days. If the 30 day deadline falls on a weekend or on a holiday, the due date becomes the next business day (Also see **Computation of Time** at [Interpretation Act](https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/i-21/FullText.html#h-279382)). Please note; * IRCC processes orders only during regular business hours, Eastern Time. That means processing of orders received by IRCC outside of operating hours or the weekend will begin the following business day. * The GCMS notes are usually generated around the time the request is made, not at the time when it’s released. * IRCC can extend the time limit to respond to a request beyond the 30 calendar days. ## ⭕ Is there a sample GCMS file? See a sample GCMS file at [https://sample.gcmsnotes.com/](https://sample.gcmsnotes.com/?page=1) # Got Gcms, next? What's next after you receive your file? 🔐 **Keep your notes secure!** [**why**](https://youtu.be/p9kffV6OjM8) **and** [**why**](https://gcmsnotes.com/your-gcms-notes-contains-sensitive-information-keep-it-secure/) 💻 **Review the** [**Code**](/code) **for help with interpretation of your file** ☎️ **Visit the** [**IRCC Help Center**](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/index-featured-can.asp) 🍕 **Have a look at our** [**Take-out menu**](/take-out-menu) 🕵 **Interpretation service is not necessary;** [**see why**](https://goo.gl/t7mgr6) 🐍 **Don't become a victim of immigration fraud, BOLO for** [**this**](/fraud-prevention) {% embed url="" %} Decoding your GCMS notes is not complex! Review this article to learn more. {% endembed %} ![Exemption # s.15(1)](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MFaAUCNNawLD0Zbh8-U%2F-MFaEMEB7k2SASu4F18X%2Fs15.png?alt=media\&token=496a62a0-80af-4209-b34a-8fc3959862a7) {% hint style="success" %} **HOW TO READ YOUR GCMS NOTES** **\[1]** Start with **Page #2** of your GCMS notes and look for the **ASSESSMENTS** section, this is where your application is summarized. It will look similar to this example. To understand the various stages of an application review [**this**](/code/aor-to-ppr) write-up. ![](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MEPIx-zCRcAx4HgBbXb%2F-MEPOF45Ym6EpXL-7myl%2Fapproved.png?alt=media\&token=28d08497-f6ee-49aa-9be5-f531d679027b) **\[2]** Also, on Page #2 as in the above example if Security is redacted (blank) and you also see s15/s16 mentioned in the top right corner of the GCMS notes then it means that information has been withheld from disclosure. Read this blog article to see [**What does disclosed in part and s15, s16 & s19 mean?**](https://gcmsnotes.com/what-do-s15-s16-and-s19-in-gcms-file-mean/) **\[3]** If Security screening is in progress then all related information is redacted from the GCMS notes. To understand how Security Screening is done review this [**in depth article**](https://gcmsnotes.com/all-about-security-screening/) **\[4]** Now review the last few pages of your GCMS notes under the "**Notes**" section. It is here that the immigration officers observations and reasoning for decisions made are noted. These "Notes" are numbered and dated from the most recent to the oldest. Interpretation service is NOT necessary to understand GCMS notes; see [**why**](https://gcmsnotes.com/is-interpretation-service-necessary-to-understand-gcms-notes/) {% endhint %} # Code The official list of codes used by in the processing of GCMS files {% hint style="info" %} ## 🔤 Glossary [The glossary provides explanations for different words IRCC uses online.](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship/helpcentre/glossary.html) {% endhint %} ``` -------------------- A -------------------- A11.2: Reference to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act section 11.2 ADR: Additional Document Requirement https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1310&top=25 AFU: Anti Fraud Unit (used to verify applicant's employment, family relationship etc) AIP: Approval in principal AL: Authorization Letter see https://twitter.com/CitImmCanada/status/1287467829202169857 AOR: Acknowledgement of Receipt AUTHORITY: Officer's name -------------------- B -------------------- BDEC: Background Decision BELA: Batch Email and Letter Application (used by visa officers to send messages to applicants) BGC: Background Check (includes criminality, security and info sharing) BIL: Biometrics Instruction Letter -------------------- C -------------------- CDA: CDA stands for Canada CIBIDS: Canadian Immigration Biometric Identification System CMAU: Centralized Medical Admissibility Unit; located in Ottawa, Canada COR: Country Of Residence COI: Country Of Origin -------------------- E -------------------- ECAS: Electronic Client Application Status https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/introduction.do EDE: Excessive demand exempt EE MI: Express Entry Ministerial Instructions EE Econ: Express Entry Economic Class EIOD: Enforcement and Intelligence Operations Directorate (at CBSA) -------------------- F -------------------- FCU: Family Class Unit FILE BF'D TO: File forward to FINDEC: Final Decision FOSS: Central database of applications -------------------- H -------------------- HB: Health Branch HOF: Holder of file -------------------- I -------------------- ICES: Integrated Customs Enforcement System (a CBSA database) IME: Immigration Medical Examination IMMCAT: Immigration Catergory IPRMS: Integrated Payment Revenue Management System (department responsible for processing client payments) -------------------- M -------------------- MAU: Medical Admissibility Unit (responsible for assessing results of medical examinations and making decisions about admissibility) MOF: Medical Officer MEDDEC: Medical Decision M01-MO7: Level of Medical assessment. M01 means perfect -------------------- N -------------------- NCR: No Criminal Record NAI: No Adverse Information NOC: National Occupation Classificaton NRT: No Reportable Trace (a report given to CIC when CSIS has no adverse information on the immigration applicant) NSSD: National Security Screening Division (at CBSA; conducts Security screening checks) NTC: National Targeting Centre (at CBSA; conducts open source checks for Security Screening) -------------------- O -------------------- OREQ: Other Requirement OSD: Operation Service Division -------------------- P -------------------- PA: Principal Applicant PAL: Pre Arrival Letter PHEP: Photos, Height, Eye color and Passport PPV: Passport with Visa PS: Prescreen (Paper selection) PReVU: IRCC system used to verify personal information. It's not related to security screening PSDEC: Paper Selection Decision PPS: Point of paper screening stage PI: Principal immigrant -------------------- R -------------------- R75: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) class selection criteria R76: MEC criteria R87: Provincial Nominee Class eligibility criteria (R87.1 for CEC) RC-6262: Responsibility Centre 6262 (CIO Centralized Intake Office in Sydney, Nova Scotia) RC-6029: New Delhi RC-9245: OSC Operations Support Centre in Ottawa, Ontario RC-9518: CPC Edmonton RC-3296: Etobicoke IRCC RC-9515: Regional Centre Ottawa RC-9570: Regional Centre Mississauga RC-6023: Regional Medical Centre London RC-6055: Regional Centre Kenya RC-6057: Regional Centre Singapore RC-6112: Regional Centre Dakar R10: Reference to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulation Section 10; https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/SOR-2002-227/section-10.html RROC: Rapid Response Operations Centre/Resettlement Operations Centre in Ottawa RFV: Ready for Visa (means PR application is approved) -------------------- S -------------------- SW1: Skill Worker 1 SEC CRIM: Security criminal SELDEC: Selection Decision SP: Spouse SPOC: Single Point of Contact (in reference to info sharing b/w US & Canada) -------------------- T -------------------- TFR: Transfer of file, to an office based on application category & work load distribution -------------------- U -------------------- USNIV: United States Non-Immigrant Visa (used when an applicant fails to declare previous US visa refusals) UMI: Unique Medical Identifier in Medical Information Sheet -------------------- V -------------------- VO: Visa Office -------------------- X -------------------- XSD: Excessive demand (e.g. related to medical results) XREF: Cross referenced applicant -------------------- Additional Resources -------------------- IRCC Help Centre: https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/index-featured-can.asp IRCC Glossary: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship/helpcentre/glossary.html ``` ``` Permanent Resident Determinations SEX 1 or M male 2 or F female MARITAL STATUS 1 single 2 married 3 widowed 4 divorced 5 separated 8 common-law partner HEIGHT CODE (Height must be between 31 cm and 268 cm) 1 (or metric + height) 2 (or imperial + height, 0 for unknown) EYE COLOUR CODE 0 Unknown 1 black 2 blue 3 brown 4 green 5 hazel 6 gray 7 other HEIGHT AND EYE COLOUR VALIDATION CODE 0 not defined 1 unknown 2 confirmed 3 estimated NAME FLAG 1 maiden name 2 son/daughter of 3 other surname or different spelling 4 other given name/different spelling or nickname 5 spouse's surname 6 intended spouse's surname OFFICIAL LANGUAGE CODE 1 fluent in English 2 fluent in French 3 fluent in both 4 fluent in neither EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATION CODE 00 none 01 secondary or less 02 formal trade certificate, diploma or apprenticeship e.g. hairdresser 03 other non-university certificate or diploma e.g. registered nurse, denial technician 04 some university, no degree 05 bachelor's degree of first professional degree e.g. BA B.Ed, B.Eng.,LLB. MD 06 some post graduate, no further degree 07 master's degree 08 doctorate , Phd SYNTHETIC NOC CODES (OM OP 97-21) 9911.0 Student 9992.0 Retired 9970.0 Homemaker 9980.0 Dependant (other than student) 9914.0 New Worker 9999.0 Open Work Permit 0001.0 investor PILOT INDICATOR COPES (PERMANENT RESIDENT ONLY) CN1 Control - Independent Class - London CN2 Control - Independent Class - Hong Kong CN3 Control - Independent Class - New Delhi PN1 Pilot - Independent Class - London PN2 Pilot- Independent Class - Hong Kong PN3 Pilot - Independent Class -New Delhi CF3 Control - Family Class - New Delhi CF4 Control - Family Class - Singapore PF3 Pilot - Family Class - New Delhi PF4 Pilot - Family Class - Singapore IF3 Imaging - Family Class - New Delhi PROVINCE AB Alberta BC British Columbia MO Manitoba NB New Brunswick NF Newfoundland NS Nova Scotia NT Northwest Territories NU Nunavut ON Ontario PE Prince Edward Island PQ Quebec SK Saskatchewan YT Yukon FAMILY STATUS CODE 1 principal applicant 2 dependant is spouse of principal applicant 3 neither 2, 4 nor 6 apply 4 dependant is a child over 19 or relationship to principal applicant is GRANDSON or GRANDDAUGHTER (pre-Proclamation cases) 5 common-law partner 6 dependant is child over 22 or relationship to principal applicant is GRANDSON or GRANDDAUGHTER (post-Proclamation cases) EMP. CODE 1 designated occupation 3 arranged employment as minister or in family business 4 has EMP5056. ARRANGED EMPLOYMENT TYPE 1. Holds Work Permit on the basis of an HRDC Confirmation -R 82(2)(a) 2. Holds Work Permit on the basis of an HRDC confirmation -R 82{2)(b) 3. HRDC permanent confirmation has been issued -R82(2)(c) MEDICAL STATUS CODE R Documents rec'd from physician, but not yet assessed F Case furthered B Pending review by Medical Advisory Board H Pending decision by HQ A Assessed and finalized N No document received for this family member MEDICAL CODES M1 enter 01 M2 enter 02 M3 enter 03 M4 enter 04 M5 enter 05 M6 enter 06 M6 enter 06 M7 enter 07 M2/3 enter 23 M4/5 enter 45 M4/6 enter 46 M4/7 enter 47 M6/7 enter 67 IMMIGRANT COST RECOVERY FPA fee paid abroad FPC fee paid in Canada FPE fee paid at Port of Entry FPS T11 decision pending - Quebec cases only R01 CR or DC case R02 Citizens of Finland R03 Application commenced before 03/02/86. RQ4 found not to be a refugee ROS re-opened case, no change in previous coding RPA Refund processed abroad (appl. fee) RPC Refund processed in Canada (appl. fee) 999 none of the above apply RIGHT OF PERMANENT RESIDENCE FEE LFA paid abroad LFC paid in Canada L FD payment deferred - non PQ LFN not applicable LFP partial refund LFQ payment deferred - Quebec LFR refund LFS supplementary payment. LLA landing loan approved LXR exempt refugees (CAIPS offices only) LFE paid elsewhere LFT file transfer to another mission LRC refunded in Canada on FC refused case TYPE OF CASE 2 Ordered Landed 3 Early Admission 7 19(1)(c), Order-in-Council 8 19(2)(a), Ministerial decision REFUGEE SPECIAL PROGRAMS HC1 Humanitarian and Compassionate Consideration OYW One Year Window of Opportunity UPX Urgent Protection Program AWR Assistance to Women at Risk REF Convention Refugee Selected Abroad SLB Sierra Leone Blended Sponsorship Case DFD De Facto Dependant KQF Fast Track Kosovo Refugees EXD Bosnian Ex-Detainees REFERRAL ORGANIZATION (REFUGEE SPECIFIC) NONE UNHCR FAMILY CLASS FC1 Spouse FC2 Fiance(e) (pre-Proclamation cases only) FC3 Son/Daughter FC4 All parents and grandparents FCS Orphaned brother/sister/nephew/niece/grandchild FC6 Child to be adopted FC7 Other relative FC9 Child adopted by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (IRPA - Effective September 2002) FCB Guardianship FCC Common Law Partner FCE Conjugal Partner FCH Family Relationships - H&C DESIGNATED CLASS DC1 Government assistance required DC2 Approved IMM1298 or IMM1344 on file DC3 Sponsored by group or corporation DC4 Self-supporting, government assistance not required DC5 Selected under joint assistance sponsorship DC8 Refugee claimants; designated class; backlog claimants INDEPENDENT IMMIGRANT AR1 Brother/sister AR4 Son/daughter ART Other Assisted Relatives EN2 Entrepreneur SE2 Self-employed ND2 Other independent Immigrants PV2 Provincial nominee processed abroad SOURCE COUNTRY RS1 Government assistance required RS3 Sponsored by group of five or corporation for 12 months (pre-Proclamation only) RS4 Self supporting, government assistance not required RS5 Special needs case selected under joint assistance sponsorship RSX Sponsored by group or corporation for 12-24 months (pre-Proclamation only) (IRPA - Effective September 2002) RSC Source country with a Community Sponsorship RSG Source country sponsored by a Group of Five. RSS Source country sponsored by a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH). ASYLUM COUNTRY RA3 Sponsored by group of five or corporation for 12 months (pre-Proclamation only), RA4 Self supporting, government assistance not required RA5 Special needs case selected under joint assistance sponsorship on an exceptional basis RAX Sponsored by group or corporation for 12-24 months (pre-Proclamation only) (IRPA - Effective September 2002) RAC Country of asylum with a Community Sponsorship RAG Country of asylum sponsored by s Group of Five RAS Country of asylum sponsored by a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH). OTHER CATEGORIES DR1 Dependant of a CRS refugee claimant who resides fn Canada and who has not been deemed to be a Convention refugee by the IRB DR2 Dependant of a CRS refugee claimant who resides abroad and who has not been deemed to be a Convention refugee in his/her own right RM2 Dependant residing abroad of a member of the deferred removal order class LC1 Member of the live-in caregiver^ in Canada class and dependants in Canada LC2 Dependant residing abroad of a member of the (live-in-caregivers in Canada class PD1 Member of the post-determination refugee PD2 Dependant of a member of the post determination refugee claimant in Canada class: residing abroad NV1 Investor in private business commercial venture/individual applicant NV2 Investor in private business commercial venture/multiple applicant NV3 Investor tn privately administered investment syndicate NV4 Investor in government administered capital venture funds NV5 Investor (IRPA - EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 2002) SW1 Skilled Worker CONVENTION REFUGEE CR1 Government assistance required CR2 App. undertaking on file as assisted relatives or family class CR3 Sponsored by group of five or corporation for T2; months (pre-Proclamation only) CR4 Self-supporting, government assistance not required CR5 Special needs case selected under joint assistance sponsorship CR8 Convention Refugees (CR) and their dependants who are recognized as Convention refugees in their own right by the IRB CRX Sponsored by group or corporation for 12-24 months (pre-Proclamation only) (IRPA - Effective September 2Q02) CRC Convention refugee abroad with a Community Sponsorship CRG Convention refugee abroad sponsored by a Group of Five, CRS Convention refugee abroad sponsored by a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) WORK IN PROCESS (WlP) EVENTS (USER ENTERED) C1023 RPRF Requested D1Q01 Referred to CIC D1005 Application Forwarded to MRCI M1004 Requested Info/Documentation Received R1001 IMM1017- Medical Instructions issued S1000 Letter-Missing Info - Supporting Documentation X1002 RPRF Received. X1004 Paper File Received X1005 Response from MRCI Received X1006 Response from CIC Received X2002 Refusal Recommended X2003 Interview Required X2004 Refer to QA X2007 Suspended WORK IN PROCESS (WlP) Events (SYSTEM GENERATED) D1020 IMM1000 Created/Updated (pre-Proclamation only) D1062 Immigrant Case Re-opened D1063 IMM5292 Issued/Updated D1064 Immigrant Foil Issued/Updated D1065 Change in immigrant Category M1000 Application Received X1000 Immigrant File Created X1001 Interview Date X1003 File Transferred X1007 File on Loan to Satellite X1008 File Returned to RPC X1009 File Transferred to Portable CAIPS X1010 File Transferred from Portable CAIPS X2000 Paper Screening Decision Entered, X2001 Selection Decision Entered X2005 Security Decision Entered X2006 Final Decision Entered X3000 Centralized Processing ND Pilot Application X3001 Centralized Processing ND Control Application X3002 Centralized Processing FC Pilot Application X3003 Centralized Processing FC Control Application X3004 Imaging Family Class Cases for New Delhi REGULATIONS A92 A93 X86 J88 M92 M94 N79 J02 (June 2002. IRPA) Decision Codes T-11 PAPER SCREENING DECISION (PSDEC) 1 passed 2 failed 3 withdrawal T-12 SELECTION DECISION (SELDEC) 1 passed 2 passed on discretion 3 OIC required (pro-Proclamation cases) 4 waived 5 failed 6 failed on discretion 7 withdrawn S passed (H & C consideration) (for Refugees only) T-13 SECURITY DECISION (BDEC) 1 passed 2 omitted - all under 18 3 incomplete 4 failed T-13 MEDICAL DECISION (MEDDEC) 1 passed 2 Incomplete 3 failed 4 dependant failed T-13 OTHER REQUIREMENTS (OREQ) 1 passed 2 OIC obtained 3 incomplete 4 failed 5 failed - criminal 6 failed - province 7 rehabilitation approved 8 rehabilitation denied T-13 FINAL DECISION (FINDEC) 1 visa issued 2 permit issued/to be Issued 4 refused 5 withdrawn SECURITY DECISION (SDEC) 1 passed 2 omitted 3 pending 4 refused CRIMINALITY DECISION (CDEC) 1 passed 2 omitted 3 pending 4 refused REASON FOR REFUSAL (SELDEC 5) (FOR REFUGEES) A Not meeting the definition of CR. RA or RS B Not having the ability to successfully establish C Not being able to be resettled for financial reasons D Medical Admissibility E Security F Criminality ``` ``` Acronyms used at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada English Description ------------------- AOR Acknowledgment of Receipt AWR Women at Risk BSO Border Service Officer BVOR Blended Visa Office-Referred Program CA Contribution Agreement CAT Convention Against Torture CBSA Canada Border Services Agency CCR Canadian Council for Refugees CEC Canadian Experience Class CFP Call for Proposals CG Constituent Group CHRA Canadian Human Rights Act CHRC Canadian Human Rights Commission CIC Citizenship and Immigration Canada CLB Canadian Language Benchmarks CLBA Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment CLPR Country of Last Permanent Residence CMAS Childminding Monitoring Advisory and Support COB Country of Birth COI Certificate of Identity COPR Confirmation of Permanent Residence CPC Case Processing Centre CR Convention Refugee CS Community Sponsor CSIS Canadian Security Intelligence Service CSQ Certificate of Selection for Québec DIO Designated Immigration Officer DMR Destination Matching Request DMP Designated Medical Practitioner DOB Date of Birth DOJ Department of Justice DR Family Members of Protected Persons EO Examination Officer ESDC Employment and Social Development Canada ESL English as a Second Language ETD Emergency Travel Document FC Family Class FSWP Federal Skilled Workers Program FN Foreign National FPT Federal, Provincial, Territorial FSL French as a Second Language G5 Group of Five GAC Global Affairs Canada (formally DFATD) GAR Government-Assisted Refugee GCMS Global Case Management System GOC Government Operations Centre GoC or GC Government of Canada H&C Humanitarian and Compassionate HDC Humanitarian Designated Classes HPC Humanitarian - Protected Persons Abroad Class iCARE Immigration Contribution Agreement Reporting Environment ICCPR International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights ICCRC Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council IDP Internally Displaced Person IFHP Interim Federal Health Program ILS Interim Lodging Site IME Immigration Medical Examination INTERPOL International Criminal Police Organization IO Immigration Officer IOM International Organization for Migration IR International Region IRB Immigration and Refugee Board IRCC Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada IRPA Immigration and Refugee Protection Act IRPR Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations IS Income Support JAS Joint Assistance Sponsorship LINC Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada LIP Local Immigration Partnerships MC Matching Centre NAT Notification of Arrival Transmission NGO Non-Governmental Organization NRA NATO Refugees Agency NRAC National Risk Assessment Centre NSC National Settlement Council OGD Other Government Department OLM Official Language Minority PA Principal Applicant PA Privacy Act PET Montreal International Airport - Pierre Elliott Trudeau PHAC Public Health Agency of Canada PIA Toronto Pearson International Airport PNP Provincial Nominee Program POB Place of Birth POE Port of Entry PP Protected Persons PR Permanent Resident PRC Permanent Resident Card PRRA Pre-Removal Risk Assessment PRTD Permanent Resident Travel Document PSEPC Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada (formally PSC) PSR Privately Sponsored Refugee PT Provinces and Territories PTSS Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome PTR Protected Temporary Resident RAP Resettlement Assistance Program RAP-IS Resettlement Assistance Program Income Support RCMP Royal Canadian Mounted Police RIF Francophone immigration networks RM Refugee Monitoring RMC Refugee Matching Centre RRF Resettlement Registration Form (UNHCR) RSTP Refugee Sponsorship Training Program RTD Refugee Travel Document RTS Refugee Tracking System SAH Sponsorship Agreement Holder SJTD Single Journey Travel Document SPO Service Provider Organization SWIS Settlement Workers in School TD Travel Document TFW Temporary Foreign Worker TR Temporary Resident TRA Threat and Risk Assessment TRP Temporary Resident Permit TRV Temporary Resident Visa UCI Unique Client Identifier Number UNHCR United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees / UN Refugee Agency VOR Visa Office-Referred (case) ``` | **Counterfoil Codes** | **Explanation** | | --------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------- | | B - 1 | Business Visitor | | C - 1 | Courtesy | | D - 1 | Diplomat | | F - 1 | Facilitation Visa | | IM - 1 | Immigrant (single-entry visa for PR) | | 0 - 1 | Official | | PA - 1 | Permit Holder | | PAX - 1 | National Interest TRP | | PC - 1 | Permit Holder with Valid TRP | | PG - 1 | Parents or Grandparents Super Visa | | R - 1 | Passed-Residency Obligation | | RA - 1 | Presence at Appeal | | RC - 1 | Passed H\&C – PR Travel Document | | RX - 1 | Attending a PR hearing while present in Canada in the past 365 days | | S - 1 | A student with Study Permit | | SW - 1 | An international student with Study and Work Permit | | SX - 1 | A student exempt from the requirement to obtain a Study Permit | | V - 1 | Visitor | | VH - 1 | Visitor in Transit for not more than 48 hours | | W - 1 | A worker with Work Permit | | WX - 1 | A worker exempt from the requirement to obtain a Work Permit | ``` Acronyms used at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Français Description --------------------- AR Accusé de réception FEP Programme des femmes en péril ASF Agent des services frontaliers RDBV Programme mixte des réfugiés désignés par un bureau des visas EC Entente de contribution CT Convention contre la torture ASFC Agence des services frontaliers du Canada CCR Conseil canadien pour les réfugiés CEC Catégorie de l’expérience canadienne ADP Appel de propositions GC Groupes constitutifs LCDP Loi canadienne sur les droits de la personne CCDP Commission canadienne des droits de la personne CIC Citoyenneté et immigration Canada NCLC Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens BTC- NCLC Batterie de tests de classement aux Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens DPRP Dernier pays de résidence permanente CMAS « Childminding Monitoring Advisory and Support » PDN Pays de naissance CI Certificat d’identité CDRP Confirmation de résidence permanente CTD Centre de traitement des demandes RC Réfugié au sens de la Convention RC Répondant communautaire SCRS Service canadien du renseignement de sécurité CSQ Certificat de sélection du Québec AID Agent d’immigration désigné DDJ Demande de destination-jumelage MD Médecin désigné DDN Date de naissance DOJ Ministère de la Justice RD Membres de la famille de personnes protégées AE Agent examinateur EDSC Emploi et développement social Canada ALS Anglais langue seconde TVU Titre de voyage d'urgence RF Regroupement familial PTQF Programme des travailleurs qualifiés du volet fédéral FN Ressortissant étranger FPT Fédéral, provincial et territorial FLS Français langue seconde G5 Groupe de cinq AMC Affaires mondiales Canada (anciennement RPG Réfugié pris en charge par le gouvernement SMGC Système mondial de gestion des cas COG Centre des opérations du gouvernement GdC ou GC Gouvernement du Canada CH Considérations humanitaires CDCH Catégories désignées pour considérations humanitaires HPC Catégories des personnes protégées à titre humanitaire outre-frontières iEDEC Immigration – Environnement de déclarations d'ententes de contribution PIRDCP Pacte international relatif aux droits civils et politiques CRCIC Conseil de réglementation des consultants en immigration du Canada PDI Personne déplacée à l’intérieur du territoire PFSI Programme fédéral de santé intérimaire ILS Logement provisoire EMR Examen médical réglementaire INTERPOL Organisation internationale de police criminelle AI Agent d’immigration OIM Organisation internationale pour les migrations RI Région internationale CISR Commission de l’immigration et du statut de réfugié IRCC Immigration, Réfugiées et Citoyenneté Canada LIPR Loi sur l’immigration et la protection des réfugiés RIPR Règlement sur l’immigration et la protection des réfugiés SR Soutien du revenu PAC Parrainage d’aide conjointe CLIC Cours de langue pour les immigrants au Canada PLI Partenariats locaux en matière d’immigration CJ Centre de jumelage TPA Transmission du préavis d’arrivée ONG Organisme non gouvernemental NRA Agence OTAN pour les réfugiés CNER Centre national d’évaluation des risques CNÉ Conseil national de l’établissement AMG Autres ministères du gouvernement MLO Minorité/Minoritaire de langue officielle DP Demandeur principal LPRP Loi sur la protection des renseignements personnels PET Aéroport de Montréal: International Pierre Elliott Trudeau ASPC Agence de la santé publique du Canada PIA Aéroport International Pearson de Toronto PCP Programme de candidats de la province LN Lieu de naissance PDE Point d’entrée PP Personnes protégées RP Résident permanant CRP Carte de résident permanent ERAR Examen des risques avant renvoi TVRP Titre de voyage pour résident permanent SPPCC Sécurité publique et protection civile Canada (anciennement SPC) RPSP Réfugié parrainé par le secteur privé PT Les provinces et les territoires SSPT Syndrome de stress post-traumatique RTP Résidents temporaires protégés PAR Programme d’aide à la réinstallation SR-PAR Soutien du revenu du Programme d'aide à la réinstallation GRC Gendarmerie royale du Canada RIF Réseaux en immigration Francophone CR Contrôle des réfugiés CJR Centre de jumelage pour les réfugiés FER Formulaire d’enregistrement aux fins de réinstallation (HCR) PFPP Programme de formation sur le parrainage privé TVR Titre de voyage pour réfugié SSCR Système de suivi du cas des réfugiés SEP Signataire d’une entente de parrainage DVAS Document de voyage d’aller simple FS Fournisseur de services TEE Travailleurs de l’établissement dans les écoles DV Document de voyage TET Travailleurs étrangers temporaires RT Résident temporaire EMR Évaluation de la menace et des risques PST Permis de séjour temporaire VRT Visa de résident temporaire IUC Identificateur unique de client HCR Haut-Commissariat des Nations Unies pour les réfugiés / L’Agence des Nations Unies pour les réfugiés CDBV Cas désignés par les bureaux des visas ``` # ✈️ AOR to PPR Process for a standard Express Entry application ## Overview of Express Entry Launched in January 2015, Express Entry is Canada’s flagship application management system for the following economic immigration categories: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, Canadian Experience Class, and a portion of the Provincial Nominee Program. ## How Express Entry works ![How Express Entry works (image source IRCC)](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MAt-IiW3NgU6EW_JYeF%2F-MAt-PKapTpBCgFAlSmn%2Fhow-express-entry-works.jpg?alt=media\&token=4c87b823-003a-423d-94cc-ebb9b84461c1) The Express Entry system manages applications for permanent residence through a two-step process. First, individuals express their interest in immigrating to Canada by completing an online profile, which is then screened electronically to determine if the individual is eligible for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class. Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria for at least one of these programs are placed in the Express Entry pool and are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score based on the information in their profile compared to a transparent scoring criteria, including factors such as education, language ability, and work experience. Candidates in the pool are ranked against one another based on their CRS score. Second, every few weeks, a Ministerial Instruction is published specifying the number of invitations to apply (ITA) for permanent residence that will be sent to candidates in the Express Entry pool on a specific date. The Ministerial Instruction may also specify that the ITA round will target one or more of the Express Entry economic immigration categories. For a given round, invitations are issued to candidates, in descending CRS score rank order, until the maximum number of invitations specified in the associated Ministerial Instruction is met. The profiles of candidates who do not receive an ITA, or decline an ITA, remain in the pool for up to 12 months. Candidates who receive an ITA but do not react are withdrawn from the pool. Candidates that receive an ITA (you will receive an email as well as it will show up in your MyCIC account; it can take 24 to 48 hours) have 60 days to submit an online application for permanent residence to IRCC. Upon receipt, an immigration officer assesses the application to verify the applicant’s CRS score and program eligibility, and to ensure the principal applicant and any accompanying family members are not inadmissible. If the immigration officer is satisfied that all conditions have been met and that the principal applicant and any accompanying family members are not inadmissible, they are approved for a permanent resident visa. Applicants and their accompanying family members become permanent residents when they are admitted to Canada. **The processing standard for applications sourced via Express Entry is six months for 80% of cases. Processing time is measured beginning from the day a complete application is received until a final decision is made by an immigration officer.** [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/express-entry-year-end-report-2018.html) {% hint style="danger" %} In 2019, IRCC did not meet the processing standard of finalizing 80% of all applications sourced via Express Entry within six months. The processing time for Express Entry, overall, was eight months. As an alternative measure of processing times, 60% of applications finalized in the 12-month period ending on December 31, 2019, were completed within the six-month service standard. [Source](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/migration/ircc/english/pdf/pub/2019-ee-report-pdfversion-eng.pdf) {% endhint %} ### How long did it take to process an Express Entry application? | Processing Times for Express Entry applications finalized by year and immigration category, in **months** | | | | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------- | -------- | -------- | | Program | **2017** | **2018** | **2019** | | Canadian Experience Class | 4 | 5 | 7 | | Federal Skilled Worker | 4 | 6 | 9 | | Provincial/Territorial Nominee | 6 | 6 | 9 | | Federal Skilled Trades | 6 | 7 | 12 | | **All Programs** | **5** | **5** | **8** | Source: CIC\_EDW (MBR) as of January 3, 2020\ Data is operational and as such should be considered preliminary and subject to change. * Processing times refer to the time in which 80% of applications were finalized by IRCC. The processing time is measured from the day a complete application is received until the time a final decision is made by an immigration officer. * [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/express-entry-year-end-report-2019.html) ## Stages of an Application All applications are processed under the [Immigration and Refugee Protection Act](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Immigration_and_Refugee_Protection_Act) & [ministerial instructions](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/policies-operational-instructions-agreements/ministerial-instructions/express-entry-application-management-system.html) and go through the following stages; ![Stages of an Express Entry Application](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MBKgROEestnwlMAZyu8%2F-MAlaH71XuaMMCc2NAYJ%2Fexpress-entry-stages-messages.jpg?alt=media\&token=b33b6c93-4b30-4ff5-aac0-a8d6b404c156) ### :white\_check\_mark: **AOR** AOR (Acknowledgement of Receipt) is automatically generated by the Express Entry system providing confirmation that an application was submitted successfully. For most applicants an AOR is immediately sent, however in some case it can take longer up to 24 hours. The application is locked on the date when it is filed and post submission only in a few instances you have to inform IRCC of any changes. If you change your country of residence after filing your application, then inform IRCC using a webform. If you claimed points for a job in your application and post submission no longer hold that job then inform IRCC in case they verify your employment. Employment verification is done during the Eligibility Review stage. The **UCI** number that starts with **CAN** is a random temporary number from the Express Entry system. It is not the same as a [regular UCI](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=777\&top=4). The temporary UCI number will change to a regular UCI number after the application crosses the R10 Completeness Check stage. Also see this link, [What is UCI and File Number](https://gcmsnotes.com/what-is-uci-and-file-number-which-one-to-use-to-get-gcms/). If you see a message like this in your GCMS file "Existing UCI eligibility showed as failed prior to promotion" , all this means is that there was a conflict with a previously assigned UCI number. If there is more than one UCI for the same client, this is a data integrity issue. As there is no way to delete a record from GCMS once it is promoted, the UCIs must be linked by performing a **household**. When a household is done, the multiple IDs will still exist but they will be linked together. ### :white\_check\_mark: **Completeness Check** The completeness check is the first stage of the application processing. At the completeness check, the processing office determines only whether the required documents are included according to the document checklist requirements in place at the time the application is received. This stage is also called R10 which refers to section 10 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations. If the application is found to be incomplete (that is, if it does not meet the requirements pursuant to section R10), the **Central Intake Office (CIO)** returns the incomplete application package, along with the fees, to the applicant and records the action in GCMS. If the Letter of Explanation (LOE) explains satisfactorily the reason for any missing document, then the visa officer may allow extension of time limit for submission of the document and move the application ahead pending the submission of the document. Applications can also be refused for **typo's** and applicants should "double check" their application before submitting. See [this court case](https://decisions.fct-cf.gc.ca/fc-cf/decisions/en/item/483431/index.do) as an example. The completeness check is done at the Central Intake Office (CIO) for all classes (FSW / PNP / CEC). According to IRCC most applications are processed within 6 months or less. The 6 months processing time starts when your application meets the completeness check. You can use [Case Specific Enquiry (CSE) / Webform](https://secure.cic.gc.ca/enquiries-renseignements/canada-case-cas-eng.aspx) to enquire about the status of your application if it exceeds 6 months. Prior to the introduction of Global Case Management System (GCMS) the [Electronic Client Application Status (e-CAS)](https://services3.cic.gc.ca/ecas/introduction.do?app=ecas) provided in-depth status of an application compared to what [MyCIC](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html) provides. However, with the implementation of the GCMS system applications are no longer linked to e-CAS. Also see [Completeness Check](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/permanent-residence/economic-classes/procedures-centralized-intake-office-paper-based-non-applications.html) for **paper-based** non-Express Entry applications ### :white\_check\_mark: **Review of eligibility** Review of whether the applicant meets the eligibility requirement. This stage is also referred to A11.2 which refers to Section 11.2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. This stage is a very time-intensive process because all documentation that has been submitted is checked for validity and relevance at this stage. To make the process efficient eligibility review takes place in 2 stages, first a case analyst, a program assistant or a case processing agent will review the application and make a recommendation. Then an officer (decision making authority) will review it and make a final determination. If there are any issues, the application can be sent for further review. This can involve an additional document request (ADR), verification calls, personal interview, etc. To address such issues the file may be transferred to a local visa office (LVO) or to another visa office depending on IRCC workload. Note that the Eligibility Review is conducted only for the primary applicant, and in that process points for the spouse are also evaluated. There is no separate eligibility review for the spouse; there is just one eligibility criteria for the application. At the first stage if there are concerns with a document or the case analyst or the program assistant wants the officer to have a careful review into a specific document then they will flag it with the message "**Review Required**". If the applicant has met the eligibility criteria, but a specific document needs further review from an officer then the GCMS notes will contain a message that the "**applicant has met the eligibility**", or “**ready to finalize**”. (Ready to finalize means that the assistant or analyst is recommending that the officer review the file before making a final decision) However, if there are concerns with eligibility then there will be a review required but there will be no message like “ready to finalize” or "pass". The message will specifically state that the job duties do not match, or the employment cannot be verified, or the number of years of work experience claimed cannot be verified. The final decision rests on the immigration officer. He may override the decision of the analyst / assistant or go with the analysis of the analyst / assistant. This is why **eligibility is only passed when an officer conclusively marks the eligibility as "passed"**. Some of the common reasons for Review Required are related to: * [Proof of funds](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/documents/proof-funds.html) (POF). Sometimes POF verification can take place again during Security Screening. * Reference letter * Work experience * Employment verification * If you answered yes to any Statutory (Stat) Questions As a result of these 2 stages the GCMS notes for eligibility review can have up to 3-4 notes. One will be by an analyst or an assistant, and the next will be by an officer. Due to the 2 stage review, MyCIC message may change from "**The eligibility review has been met**" to "**The responsible office is currently verifying if your application meets the eligibility requirements under the immigration program for which you have applied**". If in the notes section you see "Pass candidate" it just refers to your profile and score which is not the same as passed by an officer for Eligibility Review. Some applicants may see "**passed candidate**" in their GCMS notes; this refers to when the application is passed based only on the applicants profile as claimed by the applicant. The status will change to "In Progress" when the processing of the Eligibility Review starts. 💡 *Usually, before the end of Review of eligibility stage Medicals and Criminality are also passed*. At this stage some applicant's also receive a request to pay the [**Right of Permanent Residence Fee**](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1396) **(RPRF)** if it has not been paid upfront. If an applicant receives a request for the RPRF fee then it usually means that eligibility is recommended passed or passed. On MyCIC account review of eligibility will continue to be in progress until you receive the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). ### :white\_check\_mark: **Review of medical results** 💡 *Usually, at the eligibility stage (A11.2), the medicals are also passed*, which can be approximately 1 to 1.5 months after AOR. (It will typically take more time for applicants with a provincial nomination). In most cases, once the medicals are passed, they are good until the final review stage. On MyCIC account review of medical results will change to the date when the medicals are passed (MEP). In terms of the date related to medical exams, the date the panel physician transmits the results to IRCC matters and not the date of the medical exam itself. For **Medical inadmissibility** see this [link](http://theblog.artim.ca/immigration-process/medical-inadmissibility/). Also see this [chart](http://theblog.artim.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Medical-inadm-steps.png) that represents the steps taken by the doctor and the government upon determining a medical issue. At the final stage, before an application can be approved by a visa officer, the medical results have to be valid for at least 6 months (medicals have to be valid until the applicant lands in Canada). IRCC can either extend the medicals or request for another medical examination. This is at IRCC's discretion. However, you can send a web form (CSE) and request for your medical to be extended. Also see [Validity period of a medical certificate](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/standard-requirements/medical-requirements/assessing/validity-period-medical-certificate.html) and [Medical Requirements](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/standard-requirements/medical-requirements.html). (For paper based applications medicals need to be done **after** IRCC sends a medical request) If your medical review has not been initiated or has been delayed then here is some additional information and helpful tips; * Contact the panel physician and ask as to when the medicals results were transmitted to IRCC. * It can take up to a month after medical records are transmitted, for IRCC to evaluate the medicals. * Medical results are searched and tagged to your visa application based on the number provided on your upfront sheet. If this has not been done then it can be another reason for the delay. * Lastly, results are evaluated by the Medical division of IRCC after which it's updated in your file. Only then will you see the status change. If your medicals have not been updated then you will not see the status change. * You can contact IRCC to inquire about the status of your medical results if you feel there has been a delay. **Expiry, re-meds and extensions** - If the medical results are about to expire then you **may** be asked for a re-medical examination, if required. If a re-med is not required then the medicals will be extended. This is how the process works - when the validity period of medical results expire or are about to expire an IRCC officer will send it for reassessment and the regional medical officer (RMO) at the IRCC Health Branch (HB) will make the determination. Based on this reassessment by the RMO the GCMS file is updated as extended or the applicant is informed to get the medical examination done again. At this time the process for reassessment is not automatic and has to be manually undertaken. Due to the manual nature of this process there can be delays in sending the file for reassessment; updating GCMS with the extension status or informing the applicant (tip - use the web-form and inquire about the status or request your GCMS file). When **medical reassessment** is approved you will see a message like the example below in your GCMS file. ![Medical reassessment message in GCMS](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-Meph1Y5QYYDDx-j8u22%2F-MephnQ4XfAWuk40XdJW%2Fmedical-extension-12-months-gcms-notes-dot-com.png?alt=media\&token=c7063505-c37c-484a-981b-8b924c3c933f) As an applicant you can also get another medical examination done on your own accord (not recommended), in which case submit the upfront sheet to IRCC via the web-form. Other things to keep in mind - if IRCC grants an extension then it will usually be for no more than 6 months and at times for 1 year; a re-med on other hand is valid for 1 year. Also, if you see a message on myCIC "**you do not need medical exam**" then it quite likely means that your medical results have been sent for reassessment. Medicals are valid from the date as shown in the GCMS notes and that is the date when medicals were assessed by a Medical officer. Also see this link related to it [Assessing the immigration medical examination](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/standard-requirements/medical-requirements/assessing.html) ### :white\_check\_mark: **Review of additional documents** The applicant will be contacted if additional documents are required. IRCC can make a request for any information right up to when the application is approved, though most requests are usually made during Eligibility Review stage. On MyCIC account review of additional documents will show "We do not need additional documents," unless you receive a document request. ### :white\_check\_mark: **Interview** The applicant will be contacted if an interview is required. Although interviews are most common for spousal sponsorship applications, IRCC may request an interview for any application. On MyCIC account for most applicants this will state "You do not need an interview. We will send you a message if this changes". Majority of the times when an applicant is called for an interview it's because the visa officer needs to verify some information from the applicant or it can be because the applicant has been randomly selected for a quality assurance review. In GCMS notes, the reason for the interview is [not disclosed](https://gcmsnotes.com/what-do-s15-s16-and-s19-in-gcms-file-mean/) and is always redacted. Also in GCMS "Recommend Interview" (agent recommendation) and "Interview Required" (officer decision) are not the same. Also see [Conducting interviews](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/interview/applicant/conducting-interviews.html) and this [external link](https://www.bellissimolawgroup.com/interviews-with-ircc-and-cbsa/) ### :white\_check\_mark: [**Biometrics** ](https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/I-2.5/FullText.html?txthl=biometric#h-274193) {% embed url="" %} If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) for every application for permanent residence you submit. Even if you gave your biometrics in the past and they’re still valid. Before an application can be approved and before security checks (the last stage) can start, the **biometrics have to be completed**. If the applicant is already in Canada, then the biometrics are not required until IRCC asks for it. (Up to December 2019 biometrics were not required for permanent resident applicants inside Canada.) On MyCIC account this will change when you are requested for biometrics (Biometrics Instruction Letter BIL) and later when you have submitted the biometrics. Note that biometrics are only used for the criminality checks and info-sharing stages of an application; the security screening stage is not dependent on biometrics. During criminality checks RCMP will process the biometrics data through their system and during the info sharing stage, the biometrics data is shared with agencies and countries that have an agreement with Canada. Criminality checks, info sharing along with security screening are part of background checks. ![](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MAr235WkeYDjzjt2Z6Z%2F-MAr2H8OSW72g0iYi04d%2Fbiometric-process.jpg?alt=media\&token=2bf6c72d-8b24-4392-a00b-718aa6350565) **Checkout these** [**Facts about biometrics**](https://bit.ly/36abU3V) * Answer a few questions to find out if you [need to give biometrics](https://bit.ly/2Hrp9TC) * Use the [Check Status tool](https://bit.ly/2G6wxTQ) to find out if your biometrics are still valid * [Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Biometrics ](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/coronavirus-covid19/biometrics.html) * [Biometrics and the Challenges to Privacy](https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/privacy-topics/health-genetic-and-other-body-information/gd_bio_201102/) * [Biometrics Corporate initiatives](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/corporate-initiatives.html) ### :white\_check\_mark: **Background check** A procedure to verify the criminal and/or security background of visa applicants to ensure they’re admissible to Canada. Background check (BGC) is a generic term for criminality, security and information sharing. Three federal bodies work together to do immigration and citizenship screenings: * Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) * Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) * Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) CSIS and CBSA provide security advice to IRCC to make sure applicants are not a threat to national security. They do not make decisions on applications. IRCC will make a decision on your application. IRCC independently reviews the background check assessment in the final review before the application is approved. This is another reason for delays at this stage of the application processing. :heavy\_check\_mark: **Criminality Checks** - Criminality checks consist mainly of examining the information that accompanies an application, which includes a [police certificate](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/apply-permanent-residence/police-certificates.html) (PCC) from all countries where the applicant has lived for more than six months. \[After submitting an application there is no requirement to provide any additional PCCs to IRCC. However, at the discretion of IRCC it can ask for additional PCCs.] [Do I need to get a police certificate for my time in Canada?](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=037\&top=4) IRCC does background check for all inland applicants and they will ask explicitly for Canadian PCC if needed.💡 *Usually this is reviewed at the R10 Completeness Check stage or before Review of eligibility starts*. (CEC and inland applicants require a [RCMP PCC](https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/criminal-record-checks) and as a result the criminality stage will not be marked passed until the RCMP report is filed with IRCC). To save some processing time the RCMP PCC can be submitted along with the initial application and it can reduce processing time by a few weeks. Also see [Assessing inadmissibility due to serious criminality](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/standard-requirements/tran.html) It's common for applicants to receive a request for [IMM5669 Schedule A Background/Declaration form](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/migration/ircc/english/pdf/kits/forms/imm5669e.pdf) at this stage to ensure that there are no gaps in their personal history and/or for IRCC to reconfirm the information submitted. On MyCIC account if the Background Check status changes from "in progress" to "not applicable" then most likely criminality has passed. Some applicants may also see "Passed - Bio" in the Criminality section in their GCMS file which typically means that the criminality check was completed and verified using biometrics. :heavy\_check\_mark: [**Information Sharing**](https://gcmsnotes.com/all-about-info-sharing/) - The primary purpose of information sharing is to check the criminal history, human rights and terrorism related issues at partner countries. The object of information-sharing is to support the effective administration and enforcement of Canada’s citizenship and immigration programs including, but not limited to, such matters as: * travel to Canada, authorization to enter into Canada, the investigation of matters relating to program abuse, criminality, public safety and health, the coordination and streamlining of enforcement cases and the sharing of services and facilities, i.e., those used for detention purposes; * the selection of foreign nationals, issuance of visas, protection of refugees, integration of newcomers, support of provincial and territorial immigration programs and settlement services; * the support of Canada’s public safety and security objectives with respect to the management of the global movement of people and combating international terrorism, war crimes, crimes against humanity and organized crime. At times in the GCMS notes an applicant may see "**Info Sharing: System Error**" All this means is that either no information was found or a technical error occurred in accessing the information. Associated with this you may also see the comments "Contact GCMS Helpdesk or Proceed with processing the application, at the VO's discretion" Also see [Agreements with other departments and governments](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/policies-operational-instructions-agreements/agreements.html), [Biographic Visa and Immigration Information Sharing with Canada](https://www.dhs.gov/publication/biographic-visa-and-immigration-information-sharing-canada) and [Biometrics and privacy](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/protecting-appplicants-privacy.html). :heavy\_check\_mark: **Security Checks or Security screening** - CSIS' Security Screening Program provides security assessments for all federal government departments and agencies under Sections 13 and 15 of the CSIS Act, with the exception of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Department of National Defence (DND), who do their own field investigations. The [Immigration and Citizenship Screening (ICS) program at CSIS](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/csis-scrs/documents/publications/PubRep-2019-E.pdf) conducts investigations and provides security advice to CBSA and IRCC regarding persons who might represent a threat to national security. Through this program, CSIS provides security advice on permanent residence and citizenship applicants; persons applying for temporary resident visas; and persons applying for refugee status in Canada. Decisions related to admissibility into Canada, the granting of visas or the acceptance of applications for refugee status, permanent residence and citizenship rest with IRCC. CSIS reports back to IRCC whether it has concerns or not. It prepares a "**no reportable trace** **(NRT**)" report if it has no adverse information on the applicant. The Service prepares an inadmissibility brief when it believes that the applicant is inadmissible as described in the *Immigration and Refugee Protection Act*. If CSIS believes that the applicant is admissible according to the Act but is or was involved in activities described in security provisions of the Act, it prepares an information brief. The Service prepares an "incidental letter" if it receives information on applicants that could make them inadmissible on matters that do not relate to security; for example, health concerns or crimes against humanity. CSIS forwards its reports, briefs, and letters to the Intelligence Branch, which follows up and advises visa officers. [Source](https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_oag_200305_03_e_12917.html) The [Security Screening Program at CBSA](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/agency-agence/reports-rapports/pia-efvp/atip-aiprp/infosource-eng.html) is responsible for the security screening of foreign nationals who have been referred to the CBSA by an IRCC visa officer abroad or in Canada, who are seeking to come to Canada as a permanent resident, temporary resident (e.g. visitor) or refugee, or are already in Canada and seeking to remain as a temporary or permanent resident. The CBSA is responsible for ensuring that there are no security concerns related to the individual seeking entry to Canada (e.g. counter terrorism, counter espionage, war crimes, crimes against humanity and organized crime) and, based on a thorough screening exercise (including the review of information and intelligence from a wide variety of internal and external sources), makes a recommendation to IRCC on the admissibility of the individual. Security screening is the last step (for PNP applicants, this starts early in the process). Only after an officer makes a final determination on eligibility, will the security screening commence (for some applicants who are considered low risk may have Security Screening passed along with Eligibility Review). If the application has crossed 2-3 months post Review of Eligibility, then the likelihood of being in security screening is very high. One can request records from CBSA and [CSIS](https://www.canada.ca/en/security-intelligence-service.html) relating to security screening. However, the only way to know for sure if an application is under security screening is through the [CBSA notes](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/agency-agence/reports-rapports/pia-efvp/atip-aiprp/req-dem-info-eng.html), as most CBSA notes do not redact security related activities. The CBSA notes will show the status on page# 2 just like the GCMS notes. Additionally, it will also show notes as to when security screening started and if screening has concluded it will also show the date when it was completed. *(Sections 15 and 16 of the Access to Information Act may* [*exempt parts of the security screening process from public access*](https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/migration/ircc/english/resources/manuals/op/op01-eng.pdf)*)*. For paper based applicants they may see the following in their GCMS notes related to the Security Screening stage; "Ready for PS" or "PS Review" where PS refers to **Paper Screening** On MyCIC account Background Check will change twice for most applicants. First it will change in the initial few weeks, and then go back to "Not Applicable" and later in the process again change to, "We are processing your background check. We will send you a message if we need more information." This happens because criminality check and security check are both a part of background check, and when these checks happen, the status changes. It will continue to be in progress the second time until you receive the COPR. In GCMS, usually Security does not show as "In Progress"; it will be "Not Started" or it will be blank if security screening is underway or completed. If Security is blank and you also see s15 then it's a strong indicator that Security screening is passed. If Security screening has passed then your application has either been approved or pending a final review before being approved. Also, in GCMS a message "**ASSOCIATIONS (Organizations & Entities)**" means an applicant is being checked for [membership in an organization](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/inadmissibility/reasons.html) that may be on the list of human rights violations, genocide etc. This is also part of Background check. **Sections 15 and 16 of the Access to Information Act** may exempt parts of the security screening process from public access. Security screening procedures identify persons seeking admission who are, or have been, involved in espionage, subversion or terrorism, organized crime, war crimes and crimes against humanity. Note that a security screening clearance does not mean applicants do not have a criminal record. Officers are responsible for ensuring that persons who may threaten the safety and good order of Canadian society are denied entry. Officers also help promote international order and justice by denying use of our territory by such individuals. These goals are important, and strict compliance with security screening procedures is required to achieve them. Responsibility for responding to queries about delays in immigration processing rests with the Department. Applicants or their representatives should not be referred to other federal departments or agencies that assist in the security or criminality screening of applications. Officers may refer to the background inquiries carried out by the Department, but specific details of the process may be exempt from public access. No reference should be made to them explicitly. Refusal letters should simply quote the part of the Act used to refuse the application. Officers need not explain the security screening process. ### :white\_check\_mark: **Final decision** At the final review, when the security results come in and are clear, the application is finalized and the applicant receives a [Passport Request Form](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/permanent-residence/express-entry/procedures-finalizing-approved-applications.html) (PPR). \[Note: Inland applicants don't need to send their passport as they will be sent the Confirmation of Permanent Residence COPR. Only if the applicant is outside Canada and not from a visa exempt country then you will have to submit your passport to receive the PR visa.] At this stage IRCC will also check if your medicals and passport are still valid. Before PPR is sent the details of an applicant's COPR, its expiration and the PR visa are input into the GCMS system. The COPR and PR visa cannot be issued by IRCC beyond the validity of the applicants passport or medicals, whichever expires first. Counterfoil refers to the visa. If your GCMS notes shows that your application has been **Approved** (see on Page 2 of GCMS under the Assessment section), then it indicates that all the stages have been passed. However, if the **Status** (see on Page 1 of GCMS) is still **Open**, then the PPR request has not been issued. If an Approved application is **Closed** before PPR then it has to be reopened before a final review can be done again. An applicant has 30 days to submit the passport but an extension can be requested. Usually the Local Visa Office (LVO) is the office where you will be asked to submit your passport after your application has been approved. Usually it's the consulate in your home country. Ottawa is the LVO for applicants from US and Canada. In GCMS notes applicants may see **RFV** (**Ready for Visa)**, which means that the application is ready for the PR visa to be issued subject to any pending assessments. On the other hand "**APPEARS RFV**" is only seen in Eligibility notes. On MyCIC account the status will remain unchanged until you receive the COPR. Applicants may also see mentioned in their GCMS file; **PRBIO** which refers to biographical data (height, eye colour, etc) which is collected prior to issuance of a PR. [**If your Express Entry application is approved?**](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/application-approved.html) [**Sign in at the Permanent Resident Confirmation Portal**](https://prson-srpel.apps.cic.gc.ca/en/login) ## Summary All applications go through the following stages; (*PNP applicants may follow a different sequence of steps when compared to Express Entry applicants*) * **AOR** * **Completeness Check** (R10) * **Medicals** * **Biometrics** * **Criminality** (part of Background check) * **Info Sharing** (part of Background check) * **Review of Eligibility** (A11.2) * **Security** (part of Background check) * **Final Decision** The processing standard for applications sourced via Express Entry is **6 months for 80% of cases**. Processing time is measured **beginning from the day a complete application (Completeness Check R10 stage)** is received until a final decision is made by an immigration officer. If your [progress bar](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1441\&top=3) is at 100% then you may see a message in MyCIC like this ![Message after the expiry of the 6 month processing mark](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MHDl1repzHbA3lw_v6g%2F-MHDm3tvgNVGEBgWQrlr%2F20-percent-message-gcms-notes-dot-com.jpg?alt=media\&token=0ca1d54c-b463-4116-bcf3-4cfe167bdc99) "Your application is taking us longer than usual to process. About 20% of our applications are more complex to process. They take us longer due to things like how easily we can verify information, how well and how quickly you answer our requests, and whether the application is complete." Note that the progress bar just shows the time elapsed from the day an application is submitted. It does not inform what stage or how far an application has been processed. The progress bar first appears on MyCIC within a few weeks (2 to 4) of submitting the application. When the progress bar first appears on MyCIC account, it usually indicates that the R10 (Completeness Check) should also be completed. **Ghost Update (GU)** implies an update made to the application in the background (can be one or two, or more), it can be something as mundane as transferring the file from one office to another, or as significant as passing eligibility review. Not everyone gets GU. Some applicants don't get a single GU and straight away get a decision on their application. Ghost Update is not an official IRCC term. ![Example Ghost Update (GU)](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MHHcFu04JIqqFXb0pLH%2F-MHHeBMFxuIYqI8IjPsz%2Fghost-update.jpg?alt=media\&token=e1711270-ef18-4319-ba15-cfa0121451c8) Rapid Response Operations Centre (RROC), is an IRCC office which is tasked with processing immigration applications with specific NOC's that are deemed essential for Canada. **Covid pace group** - puts the application in a pending state till the dependent visa office open up again. Web form response [**VALID**](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship/helpcentre/glossary.html#valid), in this example web form response VALID means PASSED ***"Furthermore, we verified the information on file and can confirm that:*** * ***The eligibility is currently valid.*** * ***The background verifications are currently valid.*** * ***The security background verification is currently valid."*** {% hint style="info" %} **Processing Timeline** * :arrow\_forward: 1 to 1.5 months from AOR to Completeness Check (R10), Medical (MEP) & Biometric (BIL) * :arrow\_forward: Another 1 month to Review of Eligibility Stage 1 by an analyst or an assistant * :arrow\_forward: Another 1.5 to 3 months to Review of Eligibility Stage 2 by an officer * :arrow\_forward:Usually Eligibility Review (Stage 1&2) is completed by 4-5 months post AOR * :arrow\_forward: If the application has crossed 2-3 months post Review of Eligibility, then the likelihood of being in security screening is very high. Most security checks are done within 1 month; longer up to 1 to 2 years if in enhanced screening. If it has been more than 2 months since Eligibility Review was "Passed" and security has not yet concluded, then the application may be in enhanced screening. If screening is taking a very long time an applicant can consider [**an application for a writ of mandamus**](https://www.canlii.org/en/ca/fct/doc/2015/2015fc1248/2015fc1248.html) to get a decision. * **IP1-NA1-NA2-IP2** - since 2017 don't mean anything anymore. {% endhint %} ![](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MBKgROEestnwlMAZyu8%2F-MAlaH71XuaMMCc2NAYJ%2Fexpress-entry-stages-messages.jpg?alt=media\&token=b33b6c93-4b30-4ff5-aac0-a8d6b404c156) ## **External Links** {% embed url="" %} Immigration and Refugee Protection Act {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} Express Entry questions and answers {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} A11.2 {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} R75 - Minimum Eligibility Criteria for FSW {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} R76 - FSW MEC, obtain 67 points {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} Terms and definitions {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada service standards {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} # 2️⃣ Page 2 Information about the Assessment section on Page 2 of GCMS See exactly where to find the relevant information and make the most of your GCMS notes & time. Follow this link to see some sample Assessment sections from GCMS notes {% embed url="" %} ## ASSESSMENT * [Eligibility](https://help.gcmsnotes.com/code/aor-to-ppr#review-of-eligibility): * [Security](https://help.gcmsnotes.com/code/aor-to-ppr#background-check): * HIRV: * Criminality: * Org Crime: * [Medical](https://help.gcmsnotes.com/code/aor-to-ppr#review-of-medical-results): * Misrep: * Other Req: * Info Sharing: * [Final](https://help.gcmsnotes.com/code/aor-to-ppr#final-decision): * Counterfoil Req: **HIRV**: Human and International Rights Violation **Misrep**: [External link](https://meurrensonimmigration.com/misrepresentation/) **Other Req**: (also ORE) Other Requirement. Most applicants will see this section as blank or "not started" and it will remain so. This section pertains to information requested from other agencies. **Counterfoil**: is an official counterfoil document (**visa**) issued by a visa office that is placed in a person’s passport to show that they have met the requirements for admission to Canada. # Exemption Grid Access to Information Act and Privacy Act Exemption Grid This chart is meant for general reference only. The Acts should be consulted for more specific details concerning the exemptions. Please see below for the links. :arrow\_heading\_down: | [Access Section](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html) | [Privacy Section](https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/P-21/) | Subject | Comments | | :---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------: | :---------------------------------------------------------------: | ----------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | n/a | 18(2) | exempt bank information | information contained in a personal information bank designated as an exempt bank | | 13(1) | 19(1) | information obtained in confidence | obtained in confidence from a foreign, international, provincial, municipal or aboriginal government | | 14 | 20 | federal-provincial affairs | injurious to the conduct of federal-provincial affairs | | 15(1) | 21 | international affairs and defence | injurious to the conduct of international affairs, defence of Canada | | 16(1) | 22(1) | law enforcement and investigation | information obtained/prepared by a government institution that is an investigative body; information relating to investigative techniques or plans for specific lawful investigations; injurious to enforcement of any law of Canada; injurious to the security of penal institutions | | 16(2) | n/a | security | reasonably expected to facilitate the commission of an offence | | 16(3) | 22(2) | policing services for provinces or municipalities | information obtained/prepared by the RCMP while performing policing services for a province or municipality | | 16.1 | 22.1 | relating to investigations, examinations and audits | information obtained/created by the Auditor General, Commissioner of Official Languages, Information Commissioner or Privacy Commissioner in the course of an investigation, examination or audit | | 16.2 | n/a | investigations | information obtained/created by the Commissioner of Lobbying in the course of an investigation | | 16.3 | n/a | investigation, examination or review | information obtained/created by a person who conducts an investigation, examination or review in the performance of their functions under the Canada Elections Act | | 16.4 | 22.2 | investigation or settlement | information obtained/created by the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner in the course of an investigation or in an attempt to reach a settlement pursuant to the Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act | | 16.5 | 22.3 | disclosure pursuant to the *Public Servants Disclosure Act* | information created for the purpose of making a disclosure under the *Public Servants Disclosure Act* or an investigation into a disclosure under that *Act* | | 17 | 25 | safety of individuals | disclosure could reasonably be expected to threaten the safety of individuals | | n/a | 23 | security clearances | information obtained/prepared by an investigative body in determining whether to grant security clearances | | n/a | 24 | individuals sentenced for an offence | information collected/obtained by Correctional Service Canada or the National Parole Board while the individual was under sentence for an offence | | 18 | n/a | economic interests of Canada | trade secrets/financial/ commercial/scientific/technical information belonging to the Government of Canada; information that would prejudice the competitive position of a government institution/interfere with contractual or negotiations; scientific or technical information obtained through research by an employee, the disclosure of which could deprive the officer or employee of priority of publication; information the disclosure of which could be materially injurious to the financial interests of a government institution | | 18.1 | n/a | economic interests | trade secrets, financial, commercial, scientific or technical information that belongs to and is consistently treated as confidential to the Canada Post Corporation; Export Development Canada; the Public Sector Pension Investment Board; or VIA Rail Canada Incorporated | | 19(1) | 26 | personal information | personal information about an individual other than the individual who made the request | | 20(1) | n/a | third party information | information belonging to a third party that contains trade secrets, financial, commercial, scientific or technical information; information that could result in material financial loss or gain to, prejudice the competitive position; information that could interfere with contractual negotiations | | 20.1 | n/a | third party investment information | investment information received in confidence from a third party by the Public Sector Pension Investment Board | | 20.2 | n/a | third party investment information | investment information received in confidence from a third party by the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board | | 20.4 | n/a | details of a contract or the identity of a donor | contract details for services of a performing artist/the identity of a donor who made a donation in confidence to the National Arts Centre Corporation | | 21(1) | n/a | advice etc. | Advice/recommendations, consultations/deliberations, positions/plans for negotiations, or plans about personnel management that have not yet been put into operation | | 22 | n/a | testing procedures, tests and audits | information relating to testing or auditing procedures or techniques or details of specific tests to be given or audits to be conducted | | 22.1 | n/a | internal audits | draft report of an internal audit of a government institution | | 23 | 27 | solicitor-client privilege | information subject to solicitor-client privilege | | 24 | n/a | statutory prohibitions | information the disclosure of which is restricted by a provision set out in Schedule II | | n/a | 28 | medical records | Personal information that relates to the physical or mental health of the individual | ## [Chapter 11 – Specific Exemptions and Section 35 of the Access to Information Act](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11) * [11.1 Section 13 of the Act – Information obtained in confidence](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_1) * [11.2 Section 14 of the Act – Federal-provincial affairs](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_2) * [11.3 Section 15 of the Act – International affairs, defence and national security](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_3) * [11.4 Section 16 of the Act – Law enforcement, investigations and security of penal institutions](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_4) * [11.5 Section 16.1 of the Act – Records relating to investigations, examinations and audits](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_5) * [11.6 Section 16.2 of the Act – Records relating to investigations conducted by or under the authority of the Commissioner of Lobbying](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_6) * [11.7 Section 16.3 of the Act – Records relating to investigations, examinations and reviews under the Canada Elections Act](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_7) * [11.8 Section 16.4 of the Act – Exemption for the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_8) * [11.9 Section 16.5 of the Act – Public Servants Disclosure Protection Act](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_9) * [11.10 Section 17 of the Act – Safety of individuals](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_10) * [11.11 Section 18 of the Act – Economic interests of the Government of Canada](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_11) * [11.12 Section 18.1 of the Act – Economic interests of certain Crown corporations](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_12) * [11.13 Section 19 of the Act – Personal information](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_13) * [11.14 Section 20 of the Act – Third Party Information](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_14) * [11.15 Section 20.1 of the Act – Exemption for the Public Sector Pension Investment Board](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_15) * [11.16 Section 20.2 of the Act – Exemption for the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_16) * [11.17 Section 20.4 of the Act – Exemption for the National Arts Centre Corporation](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_17) * [11.18 Section 21 of the Act – Operations of Government](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_18) * [11.19 Section 22 of the Act – Testing procedures](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_19) * [11.20 Section 22.1 of the Act – Internal audits](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_20) * [11.21 Section 23 of the Act – Solicitor-client privilege](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_21) * [11.22 Section 24 of the Act – Statutory prohibitions](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_22) * [11.23 Section 26 of the Act – Information to be published](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_23) * [11.24 Other grounds for refusing access: Section 35 of the Act – Protection of representations made to the Information Commissioner in the context of an investigation](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html#cha11_24) # 🕸️ Web Form Example web form responses from IRCC {% hint style="danger" %} **When communicating with IRCC, it is important to clearly explain your situation and provide all relevant details. Otherwise, you may receive information that is not accurate.** **After you submit the** [**Web Form**](https://secure.cic.gc.ca/enquiries-renseignements/canada-case-cas-eng.aspx) **you will not receive a confirmation email. Usually, it takes IRCC 2 to 5 business days to respond.** Also, one can send an email to CPC Ottawa at , it usually is faster than a web form. Documents uploaded using the webform are not reflected in MyCIC account, only those uploaded through MyCIC can be viewed there. {% endhint %} {% embed url="" %} {% hint style="info" %} The responsible office is currently verifying if your application meets the [eligibility requirements](http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled/apply-who-express.asp) under the immigration program for which you have applied. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} We verified the information on file and can confirm that: * The eligibility verifications are currently valid. * The criminal background verification is currently valid. * The security background verification has not been initiated. While the [processing times](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-processing-times.html) may vary with each case, we will make all the necessary efforts to finalize your application as soon as possible.\ \ Rest assured that you will be informed as soon as a decision is reached or if additional information is needed {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} We verified the information on file and can confirm that: * The eligibility is currently valid. * The criminal background verification is in process. * The security background verification is currently valid. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} Furthermore, we verified the information on file and can confirm that: * The eligibility review is complete. * The security background verification is valid. * The criminal background verification is valid. {% endhint %} {% hint style="warning" %} **VALID** means "For a document—legal, not expired, and accepted by IRCC." [Source](https://www.canada.ca/en/services/immigration-citizenship/helpcentre/glossary.html#valid) Validity of screening results (permanent resident applications) shown in the image below has been redacted from the **CBSA Screening Manual** under [exemptions](/code/exemption-grid) taken under the Access to Information Act. To read more about security screening see this [link](https://gcmsnotes.com/all-about-security-screening/) {% endhint %} ![](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MEEx2a_JVeXbiBQ5OnH%2F-MEF5kmQQGLCXl6bwUJ9%2F1.jpg?alt=media\&token=b5ba8f2d-9175-4d01-a4a0-4a637fc07526) {% hint style="success" %} **Ways to contact IRCC. Read in detail about these options** [**here**](https://gcmsnotes.com/check-status-of-canada-visa-application/) * IRCC Help Centre * Web Form * Email * Client Support Centre * Member of Parliament * ECAS * GCMS {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} These are CBSA Toronto Pearson International Airport numbers that will transfer the call to the IRCC call center **Terminal 1:** [(905) 676-3640](tel:9056763640)\ **Terminal 3:** [(905) 612-5416](tel:9056125416) * transfer to CIC processing application press 2 * status or processing times press 1 * become permanent resident press 2 * application starts with E press 2 * then enter application number followed by # * listen to the entered number and press 1 to confirm * enter the year of birth and then listen the entered number and press 1 to confirm * hear the details * then press 1 to check status (there will be a pause) * hear detailed status at the end press 0 to speak to agent {% endhint %} # 🐦IRCC Tweets Noteworthy tweets from IRCC @CitImmCanada and others. Please be patient while tweets load. ## :notepad\_spiral:GCMS {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} ## :point\_up\_2:BIOMETRICS {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} Missed a call from Service Canada? {% endembed %} ## :moneybag:PROOF OF FUNDS {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %} ## :black\_large\_square:REDACTED {% embed url="" %} ## ⚖️IMMIGRATION ADVICE {% embed url="" %} # 👩‍🎓 Study Permit Study in Canada as an international student ### :question: What happens after I send in my application? IRCC will * review your application to make sure it’s [complete](http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=072\&top=3) * once you pay the biometrics fee, send you a letter that tells you how to give your biometrics (if applicable) * receive and review your biometrics after you gave them at a collection point (if applicable) * decide if you’re allowed to come to or stay in Canada (we could do a background check) * decide if you’re eligible to apply to work, study or visit Canada * tell you how to get a medical exam (if you need one) * decide if you need to go to an interview * tell you of the decision we make on your application If you applied online, we’ll contact you through your [account](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html). If you applied on paper, we’ll contact you using the information you gave us. [Source](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=022\&top=4) How can I check the status of my application? See this [link](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=029\&top=3) ### :question: Top Reasons for Study Permit Refusals * Financial Insufficiency * Choice of Program * Letter of Acceptance * Dual Intent * Intent of Return to Home Country * Insufficient Family Ties to the Home Country * Lack of Job Prospects in Home Country * Incomplete Travel or Identity Documents * Inadequate Travel History ### :question: Where to Find Reasons for Study Permit Refusals * [Official IRCC website](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html) * [GCMS Notes](https://gcmsnotes.com/what-are-gcms-notes-and-how-do-you-request/) * Program Delivery Instructions * [Study permits: Making an application](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/making-application.html) ### :question: Appealing against Study Permit Refusal * Request Reconsideration * Appeal to the Federal Court of Canada (see more info below :scales:) * Submit a New Application ### :question: Apply for your Study Permit Students may apply for their Study Permit via an online application portal or via paper application. You also have the option of using the services of an authorized third party application collection service, called a [Visa Application Centre (VAC)](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/contact-ircc/offices/find-visa-application-centre.html). If you are able, apply using the online application portal, as generally, online applications are processed more quickly than paper applications. Estimated processing times per country are available on the IRCC site. [International Student Enrolment in Postsecondary Education Programs Prior to COVID-19](https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/en/pub/11-626-x/11-626-x2020003-eng.pdf?st=8DDts9dc) ### :question: Student Direct Stream Depending on your country of citizenship AND country of residence, you may be eligible for the Student Direct Stream processing, which provides expedited processing, usually in 3-4 weeks. To learn more about the Student Direct Stream, please visit the [IRCC website](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada/study-permit/student-direct-stream.html). To be eligible, applicants must meet [specific requirements](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/direct-stream.html#toc02) by providing documentation up front. Please check the [Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals/temporary-residents/study-permits/direct-stream.html) for more information and instructions. ### :scales:**Appeals to the Federal Court of Canada** Refusal based on ["similar programs and courses are readily available in the region and for much lower costs."](https://decisions.fct-cf.gc.ca/fc-cf/decisions/en/item/481830/index.do) # Strong Application What makes a visa application strong? Visa applicants often look for advice on how to overcome a refused visa application. Here are some tips you may find helpful to get your application approved if you are planning on re-applying for a visa. ## :arrow\_right: [Guide to re-applying after a visa rejection](https://gcmsnotes.com/guide-to-reapplying-after-canada-visa-rejection/) # Take-out menu PDF documents that you can download, videos you can watch and more.. ## 📜 PDF 🕵 Interpretation service is not necessary; [see why](https://goo.gl/t7mgr6) ## 🎥 Videos {% embed url="" %} Applied for a Canada Visa? In 30 seconds learn about Gcms Notes {% endembed %} {% embed url="" %} Your Gcms Notes contains sensitive information, keep it secure. Learn why {% endembed %} ## 📄 Articles ![Read more to keep your GCMS safe.](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-M6RBD1ht_mbiY5StDGj%2F-M6RCoVrwnzHjUj_k8Dz%2Fget-gcms-from-gcmsnotes-dot-com.jpg?alt=media\&token=67dff5dc-b6c2-47d8-8763-2b1fedd527b1) * [It matters where you get your GCMS from. Misuse can lead to fraud!](https://link.gcmsnotes.com/place-order-2b3bd) ## 🔗 Links ### IRCC Help * [IRCC Help Center](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/index-featured-can.asp) * [IRCC Webform](https://secure.cic.gc.ca/enquiries-renseignements/canada-case-cas-eng.aspx) or goo.gl/yi6fMW * [IRCC Twitter](https://twitter.com/CitImmCanada) * [Service Standards](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/service-declaration/service-standards.html) * [Submit your feedback](https://secure.cic.gc.ca/feedback-retroaction/feedback-retroaction-eng.aspx) ### The Act * [Access to Information Act](https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/a-1/FullText.html) * [Access to Information Manual](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/access-information/access-information-manual.html) * [OPC Process and Compliance Manual](https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/about-the-opc/opc-access-to-information-and-privacy/manual/) * [Investigator's Guide to Interpreting the Act](https://www.oic-ci.gc.ca/en/investigators-guide-interpreting-act) * [FAQ - Access to Information and Privacy](https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/helpcentre/questions-answers-by-topic.asp?top=1) * [ATIP - Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy.html) * [Bill C-58 - Reviewing access to information](https://www.canada.ca/en/treasury-board-secretariat/services/access-information-privacy/reviewing-access-information.html) * [ATIP Organization Contact List](https://geds-sage.gc.ca/en/GEDS?pgid=014\&dn=T1U9QVRJUDAyLUFJUFJQMDIsT1U9QVRJUC1BSVBSUCxPVT1QUkFNLVBSQU0sT1U9Q09SLVNFQyxPVT1BRE0tQ1NTLE9VPURNTy1ETU8sT1U9TkhRLUFDLE9VPUlSQ0MtSVJDQyxPPUdDLEM9Q0E=) * [Completed Access to Information Requests](https://open.canada.ca/en/search/ati) * [GCwiki - Access to Information and Privacy Acts](https://wiki.gccollab.ca/Access_to_Information_and_Privacy_-_Crown_Corporations) ### Instructions & guidelines * [Program Delivery Instructions](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals/operational-bulletins-manuals.html) * [IRCC Publications and manuals](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals.html) ### Reports * [Access to Information Act, Privacy Act, Annual Report](< https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/publications-manuals.html>) (IRCC) * [Annual Report to Parliament on the Access to Information Act](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/transparency-transparence/atip-aiprp/reports-rapports/menu-eng.html) (CBSA) * [Internal audit of ATIP management](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/reports-statistics/audits/access-informaton-privacy-management.html) * [Reports and statistics - IRCC](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/reports-statistics.html) * [Reports to Parliament - IRCC](https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_lpf_e_41216.html) * [Reports to Parliament - CSIS](https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_lpf_e_1220.html) * [Reports to Parliament - CBSA](https://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/internet/English/parl_lpf_e_1234.html) ### Miscellaneous * [Government of Canada Publications](http://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/home.html) * [The Government of Canada’s terminology and linguistic data bank](https://www.btb.termiumplus.gc.ca/tpv2alpha/alpha-eng.html?lang=eng) * [Levels of security](https://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/esc-src/protection-safeguarding/niveaux-levels-eng.html) * [Retention and Disposal of Personal Information](https://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/pol/doc-eng.aspx?id=25496\§ion=html) * Book - [Fallen Behind: Canada’s Access to Information Act in the World Context](https://fipa.bc.ca/fallen-behind-canadas-access-to-information-act-in-the-world-context-2nd-edition/) * [Canadian Legal Information Institute](https://www.canlii.org/en/info/about.html) * [Government of Canada Guidance on Using Electronic Signatures](https://www.canada.ca/en/government/system/digital-government/online-security-privacy/government-canada-guidance-using-electronic-signatures.html) ## 🔭 **IRCC ATIP at a glance** ![CSC's ATIP Infonet Landing Page](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MCJiYQBNXf7At3QmOd-%2F-MCJkJT97wfg4iuP3wTm%2Fpriv10-11-index-sml-eng.gif?alt=media\&token=3f65d024-e072-4ea6-965c-7b1e7d666db9) # Fraud prevention 👤 Don't become a victim of immigration fraud {% embed url="" %} {% hint style="warning" %} **College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC)** To better protect newcomers and applicants to Canada from unscrupulous and fraudulent consultants, the Government of Canada announced in 2019 its intention to strengthen the regime governing immigration and citizenship consultants by implementing a new statutory College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). The [*College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants Act*](https://laws.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-33.6/) came into force on November 20 and the College is expected to open in 2021. The mandate of the CICC is to regulate the practice of immigration and citizenship consulting in the public interest, and it will operate as an arm’s-length institution. {% endhint %} {% hint style="danger" %} Only a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), a lawyer registered in one of Canada’s 13 Law Societies, a notaire registered with the Chambre des notaires du Québec, or someone working directly under the supervision of someone belonging to one of those 3 previous professions, can legally offer Canadian immigration advice in exchange for money. {% endhint %} {% hint style="info" %} ## [Find out if your representative is authorized](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigration-citizenship-representative/choose/authorized.html) You can check if a person is licensed to represent immigrants or to give advice. * Citizenship or immigration consultants must be a member of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. * Lawyers or notaries must be a member of a [Canadian provincial or territorial law society](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigration-citizenship-representative/choose/authorized.html#law-societies), or the Chambre des notaires du Québec. * Paralegals (Ontario only) must be members of the [Law Society of Upper Canada](http://www.lsuc.on.ca/index_en.html) If they are not members in good standing, you should not use their services. Most law societies let you check online to see if a person is a member in good standing. {% endhint %} {% hint style="success" %} **Law Society Tribunal** The Law Society Tribunal is an independent adjudicative tribunal within the Law Society of Ontario. The Tribunal processes, hears and decides regulatory cases about Ontario lawyers and paralegals in a manner that is fair, just and in the public interest. [Make a Complaint about a Lawyer](https://lso.ca/protecting-the-public/complaints) [Discipline-related decisions issued since 2000](https://www.canlii.org/en/on/onlst/) {% endhint %} # About us Independently owned and operated since 2002 ![We provide you with an unbiased, transparent and trustworthy service.](https://1291234090-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M6DNn2X9xD1-DyIzswG%2F-MBCmbUPt82Ph2Tba2bi%2F-MBCnGWclRdhZru78AOU%2Fgcms-notes-about-us.jpg?alt=media\&token=bd0fc7df-a980-41de-b73f-cb59b7cdc610) Established in 2002, we are an independently owned and operated professional service providing Caips and Gcms Notes service to those who have applied for a Canadian visa. We operate [CaipsNotes.com](https://caipsnotes.com) and [GcmsNotes.com](https://gcmsnotes.com) :maple\_leaf:Canada Visa Status - The only way to know the most detailed information of an application is by requesting GCMS Notes. GCMS is the most comprehensive and up-to-date information that can be obtained to understand the status of a visa application or to learn the details about a visa refusal. It offers far more detail than IRCC’s online system and you can [order your GCMS Notes online](https://gcmsnotes.com/order-details/) :scales:Disclaimer - Material contained within this website is intended for informational purposes only and is provided as a service to the Canada visa applicant community. These materials do not, and are not, intended to constitute legal advice. # Contact us We look forward to hearing from you Let us know what feedback you have for us. 💬 Contact us using this [link](https://gcmsnotes.com/contact/) # Disclaimer This website is for information only. It does not give legal advice. Canadian immigration laws and rules change all the time. We try to keep this website up-to-date, but the information may not be accurate. By using this website, you agree that you have read and understood this disclaimer.