Case study
Canada work permit refusal was a major setback for Ms. Jonalyn, a Philippines-based applicant who hoped to work in Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. After the refusal, she pursued judicial review with support from Arnika Visa and her lawyer. The case was settled, returned for reconsideration by a new officer, and her work permit application was subsequently approved.
Background
Ms. Jonalyn, a resident of Batangas, Philippines, applied for a Canadian work permit supported by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) obtained by her Canadian employer. She submitted her application to IRCC Manila.
Refusal of March 12, 2025
On March 12, 2025, IRCC refused the application. The refusal raised concerns about whether the applicant’s visit would be temporary and whether her employment situation demonstrated financial establishment in her country of residence. The officer also questioned the consistency between her career background, training, and the proposed occupation. The decision referred to section 200(1)(b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
Judicial review and settlement
After reviewing the case, Arnika Visa recommended that the applicant consult a lawyer about judicial review. The Federal Court matter was filed as IMM-9381-25. During the proceeding, IRCC provided a Rule 9 response restating the refusal concerns. The applicant’s submissions addressed the relevance of her work history and training, her ties to the Philippines, and the information available to the officer.
According to the case summary, the Department of Justice then issued a settlement offer proposing that the refusal be set aside and a different officer redetermine the application, with an opportunity for the applicant to provide updated documents and explanations. The settlement was described as being without costs to either party. After the lawyer filed a Notice of Discontinuance, IRCC reopened the application for reconsideration.
Updated document request
On September 29, 2025, IRCC requested updated information and gave the applicant 30 days to respond. The requested materials included new work permit forms (IMM 1295 and IMM 5645), an updated signed job offer and employment contract, evidence of current employment and income in the Philippines, updated bank statements and financial evidence, and travel history since the refusal.
Ms. Jonalyn and her employer gathered and submitted the requested documents with assistance from Arnika Visa. The updated package was intended to clarify the applicant’s circumstances and respond to the concerns raised in the earlier decision.
Approval and outcome
On October 24, 2025, IRCC issued a passport request letter. The case summary reports that the work permit was approved, allowing Ms. Jonalyn to move forward with her plans to work in Canada.
Key takeaway
This case shows that a refusal may be challenged through judicial review when there are arguable legal issues, and that a settlement may result in a fresh determination rather than automatic approval. The subsequent decision followed a new review and the submission of updated evidence. Judicial review is not an ordinary appeal, and outcomes depend on the facts and applicable law in each case.
How Arnika Visa can assist
Arnika Visa can review refusal reasons, help organize supporting information, and assist with immigration applications within its authorized scope. Judicial review is a Federal Court process and requires legal advice and representation from a qualified lawyer. No representative can guarantee a settlement or visa approval.
Related resources: Canada visa refusal reasons | Reapplying after a Canada visa refusal | Book a consultation
