Visitor Record Approved After Work Permit Refusal: Iman’s Case

Case study

This visitor record application Canada case study follows Iman, a Malaysian graphic designer who lost her job in Montreal and faced uncertainty about her temporary resident status. After her work permit application was refused, she applied for a visitor record and provided supporting information about her circumstances and relationships.

Background

Iman came to Canada in February 2023 on an employer-specific work permit to work as a graphic designer (NOC 52120) for an LMIA-approved employer in Montreal. In May 2024, her employer downsized amid industry disruption associated with the Hollywood writers’ and actors’ strikes, and her employment ended.

Work permit refusal and status concerns

Iman initially tried to change from an employer-specific work permit to an open work permit. The case summary states that this application was refused in November 2024 because an LMIA was not provided. With her status expiring on January 28, 2025, she sought advice on options to remain in Canada.

Visitor record application

After consulting with RCIC, Reza Eslami, Iman pursued a visitor record application. The submission explained her job loss and included evidence of her common-law relationship with her Canadian partner, Louis Melançon; enrollment in French-language classes through MIFI; joint savings; and evidence of her partner’s employment and income.

The supporting documents were intended to explain Iman’s circumstances, demonstrate how her stay would be financially supported, and provide context for her request to remain temporarily in Canada. A visitor record may authorize a person to remain in Canada as a visitor for a specified period; it does not authorize employment.

Approval and outcome

IRCC approved Iman’s visitor record application on February 8, 2025, authorizing her to remain in Canada until August 6, 2025. The case summary says this provided time for her to pursue an in-Canada spousal sponsorship application. Confirm the sponsorship filing and eligibility details separately before stating that an application was submitted or accepted.

Key takeaway

The case illustrates the importance of responding to a change in employment and temporary status with a timely, fact-specific application. The visitor record approval was a temporary-status outcome, not a work permit approval or permanent residence decision. Each application is assessed on its own facts, and approval is not guaranteed.

How Arnika Visa can assist

Arnika Visa can help review refusal reasons, explain available application pathways, and prepare supporting documents for temporary resident applications. Judicial review is a Federal Court process and should be discussed with a qualified lawyer; deadlines and options depend on the decision and applicant’s circumstances.