To get a full refund for your Canadian work permit application, you must withdraw it before Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) begins processing it. If processing has already started, your $155 CAD processing fee is non-refundable, though biometrics or open work permit holder fees may still be returned.
Deciding to cancel your immigration plans can be stressful, especially when you have already paid government fees. Many applicants in Canada wonder if they can recover their hard-earned money after withdrawing an application. Generally, IRCC handles refunds based on one strict rule: the exact timeline of when your file is officially opened. If you act quickly, you have a solid chance of getting your money back.
Understanding the exact rules around IRCC refunds can save you significant frustration. It is highly recommended to consult a local immigration lawyer from our directory to ensure you do not make mistakes that could impact future applications to Canada. Your lawyer can also draft a proper withdrawal request to maximize your chances of receiving a complete refund. 💰
Step-by-Step Process for Withdrawing a Work Permit Application in Canada
Whether you applied from Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, or outside of Canada entirely, the process to withdraw a temporary residence application remains relatively consistent. IRCC handles all withdrawals centrally through their online systems. Here is the standard pathway most applicants follow.
Step 1: Verify Your Current Application Status
Before you request a withdrawal, you must log into your IRCC Secure Account. Check the detailed status of your application. If the status says “Background check in progress” or “We are reviewing your eligibility,” processing has officially started. If it says “Submitted” or “Action Required” without active review, you might still be in the safe zone for a full refund. 🔍
Step 2: Submit a Formal Request via the IRCC Web Form
You cannot simply click a “cancel” button in your IRCC portal. Instead, you must use the IRCC Web Form to formally request a withdrawal. You will need to select “Withdrawal of Application” from the dropdown menu, provide your Unique Client Identifier (UCI), and include your Application Number (which usually begins with a ‘W’ for work permits).
Step 3: Draft a Brief Letter of Explanation
Although not strictly required, it is best practice to attach a short Letter of Explanation (LOE). State clearly and concisely why you are withdrawing the application. For instance, you might explain that your prospective Canadian employer cancelled the job offer, or your personal circumstances changed. Keep your language professional and straightforward. 📝
Step 4: Monitor Your Account and Email for the Decision
After submitting the Web Form, IRCC will eventually send an official acknowledgement letter. This letter will clearly state whether your withdrawal was accepted and, crucially, whether your application was caught before processing began. If a refund is approved, it will automatically be issued to the original credit card used for payment.
How Much Does it Cost, and What is Refundable?
When dealing with work permit applications in Canada, applicants often pay several different fees at once. Not all fees follow the same refund rules.
- Base Work Permit Processing Fee: $155 CAD. Refundable only if the application is withdrawn before processing begins.
- Open Work Permit Holder Fee: $100 CAD. Highly likely to be refunded even if the base processing fee is kept, provided the permit was never officially issued or used.
- Biometrics Fee: $85 CAD per person (or $170 CAD per family). Refundable if you withdraw the application before you actually go to a Service Canada centre or Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and photo.
- Employer Compliance Fee: $230 CAD. Paid by the employer, not the applicant. Refundable to the employer if the application is withdrawn or refused.
| Fee Type | Current Amount (CAD) | Refund Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit Processing | $155 | Only before processing starts |
| Biometrics Collection | $85 | Before fingerprints are taken |
| Open Permit Holder | $100 | If permit is not issued |
How Long Does the Process Take?
Patience is essential when dealing with Canadian government refunds. Once you submit your withdrawal request via the IRCC Web Form, it typically takes the department up to 30 days just to read and process the message.
If IRCC confirms that you are eligible for a refund, the actual financial transaction takes additional time. Generally, you can expect the funds to appear on your credit card statement within six to eight weeks. If the original credit card has expired, IRCC will attempt to issue a cheque, which can easily delay the process by several more months due to mailing times. 📅
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if my original credit card is now closed or expired?
If the credit card you used to pay the $155 CAD fee is no longer active, IRCC will first attempt to refund it. When the bank rejects the refund, IRCC’s finance department will automatically issue a physical cheque to your mailing address on file. You should ensure your address is updated via the Web Form.
Will withdrawing my application hurt my future chances of coming to Canada?
No, simply withdrawing an application does not create a negative mark on your immigration record. It is always better to formally withdraw than to let an application process with incorrect or outdated information, which could lead to an official refusal.
How do I know if “processing” has officially started?
The only reliable way is to check the detailed status messages in your IRCC Secure Account. If an officer has begun reviewing your medical exams, biometrics, or eligibility documents, the processing phase has officially commenced.
Can I hire a lawyer just to handle my withdrawal and refund?
Yes, many people choose to hire a Canadian immigration lawyer to handle communications with IRCC. A professional can ensure the Web Form is submitted correctly and advocate for your refund. Feel free to browse our directory to find a qualified lawyer.
Leave a Reply