To withdraw your Canadian PR application and get a refund as of June 2026, you must submit a formal request via the IRCC Webform. The $600 CAD Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) is fully refundable, but the processing fee is only returned if IRCC has not started processing your file.
Applying for Permanent Residency in Canada is an exciting milestone, but sometimes life takes unexpected turns. Whether you have decided to move back home, accepted a job offer in another country, or simply want to pause your Canadian immigration journey, you have the right to cancel your application. Understanding how to navigate the withdrawal process effectively is crucial.
Many applicants worry about losing their hard-earned money when they cancel. 💰 Fortunately, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clear guidelines on refunds. The process applies universally across Canada, whether you initially planned to settle in Toronto, Vancouver, or a smaller town in Nova Scotia. Let us walk through the exact steps to withdraw a PR application in Canada and get your refund safely.
Step-by-Step Process in Canada
Cancelling your PR application requires proactive communication with federal immigration authorities. Do not simply ignore requests for documents, as a formal refusal can negatively impact future travel to Canada. Most applicants safely withdraw by following these structured steps.
Step 1: Check Your Current Application Status
Before requesting a withdrawal, log into your secure IRCC portal to check your status. 🗒 If your application says “Background check in progress” or “Medical results received,” IRCC has already started processing it. Knowing your status helps you determine if the base processing fee is still refundable.
Step 2: Locate Your Application Details
You must gather all your specific file identifiers to ensure IRCC cancels the correct application. Find your Unique Client Identifier (UCI), which is usually an 8 or 10-digit number. Also, keep your Application Number (usually starting with an ‘E’ for Express Entry) ready to input into the system.
Step 3: Submit the IRCC Webform
The only official way to withdraw your application is through the IRCC Webform. 📝 Navigate to the federal IRCC website and select the Webform. Under the “Enquiry” section, clearly state: “I am writing to formally withdraw my application for Permanent Residence and request a refund of applicable fees.”
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
While not strictly required, uploading a signed letter of explanation can speed up the process. Briefly state your reason for withdrawing, ensure you sign it by hand, and save it as a PDF. Attach this document to the Webform before hitting submit.
Step 5: Await the Confirmation of Withdrawal
After submission, IRCC will eventually send an email confirming your withdrawal request. 📩 Do not panic if this takes a few weeks, as federal processing times vary. Once you receive this official Confirmation of Withdrawal or closing letter, your file is formally closed.
Step 6: Monitor Your Bank or Credit Card
Refunds are automatically issued to the original payment method. If you paid your fees using a Canadian credit card, monitor that specific account. If the card has expired since you applied, the refund process becomes more complex and may involve a physical cheque.
How Much Does it Cost in Canada?
There is absolutely no fee to submit a withdrawal request. 💵 However, understanding which of your originally paid fees will be refunded is vital. As of June 2026, standard PR applications involve two main federal fees.
- Base Processing Fee: Currently set at $990 CAD. This is only refunded if you withdraw before IRCC opens your file.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): Currently set at $600 CAD. This is always 100% refundable if you do not become a Permanent Resident.
- Biometrics Fee: Typically $85 CAD. Refundable only if the biometrics appointment has not yet taken place.
| Fee Type | Status: Processing Not Started | Status: Processing Started |
|---|---|---|
| PR Processing Fee ($990) | Fully Refundable | Non-Refundable |
| RPRF Fee ($600) | Fully Refundable | Fully Refundable |
| Provincial Nominee (PNP) Fees | Depends on Province | Usually Non-Refundable |
How Long Does the Process Take?
Patience is required when dealing with federal refunds. Once IRCC officially confirms your withdrawal, it generally takes 6 to 8 weeks for the refund to appear on your credit card. If a cheque needs to be mailed internationally, expect delays of up to 12 to 16 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will withdrawing affect future applications to Canada?
Generally, voluntarily withdrawing an application leaves no negative mark on your record. You are completely free to apply for a visitor visa, study permit, or PR again in the future without penalty.
What if my credit card has expired?
If the credit card you used to pay the fees is closed or expired, IRCC will usually attempt the refund first. When it bounces back, they will contact you to issue a cheque or arrange an alternative method, though this significantly extends the timeline.
Can I withdraw if I already received my PR visa?
Yes, as long as you have not officially landed in Canada and signed the Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) at the border. You can still withdraw and get your RPRF refunded.
Are third-party costs like medical exams refundable?
No. IRCC only refunds government fees. Expenses for your immigration lawyer, upfront medical exams, or language tests like CELPIP or IELTS are entirely non-refundable.
How do I cancel a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) application?
If you applied to a province like Ontario or Alberta, you must withdraw the provincial application through their specific regional portal first, before dealing with the federal IRCC Express Entry profile.
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