What should a refugee PR refusal reconsideration request include? (PSR refusal)

[Red-John]

Hi all,

I’m a Privately Sponsored Refugee (PSR) applicant whose PR application was refused, and I’m planning to submit a reconsideration request to the visa office. The visa officer refused my application based on the fact that I couldn't show that I can't return to "ALL" areas of my home country! Which after doing some research seems erroneous.

Anyways, I’m not asking about strategy for my specific case, but about the core elements that should be in every reconsideration request after a PR refusal (especially PSR), regardless of the refusal reason. Also I where or how should I send it (as a webform or as an email response to the refusal email)?

From people who have done this or practitioners who know this area, what would you say are the essential parts of a solid reconsideration request letter? For example, should it always include:

• Clear identification of the file (name, DOB, UCI, app number, refusal date, visa office).
• A short statement of what I’m asking for (reopen file and change/refine the decision).
• A concise summary of the officer’s main reasons for refusal, in neutral language.
• Point‑by‑point explanation of where the officer made an error (facts, law, or misunderstanding/overlooking evidence).
• References to specific documents already in the file and/or any new documents, with a short explanation of how each one addresses an error.
• A brief conclusion repeating the request (reopen, reconsider, and approve or re‑assess).

Also, more generally for PSR/PR refusals:

• Is there a “best practice” structure or length (e.g., under X pages, numbered headings, table of contents, etc.)?
• Is there any usual way people send it (reply to refusal email vs webform) that’s considered standard for reconsideration requests?

Again, I’m just trying to understand the universal building blocks of a good reconsideration request, not get case‑specific legal advice. Any examples of structure, common mistakes to avoid, or general tips would really help.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Naturgrl]

You need a lawyer. This is not a reconsideration request but Judicial Review.

 

[Red-John]

You need a lawyer. This is not a reconsideration request but Judicial Review.

Thanks for responding!
I'm seeking a "reconsideration request" first because it's something that can be done before the "Judicial Review". The IRCC website itself mentions it as an informal way to request a review of your application.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigratio...ction/resettlement/final-decision/refuse.html

 

[Naturgrl]

Thanks for responding!
I'm seeking a "reconsideration request" first because it's something that can be done before the "Judicial Review". The IRCC website itself mentions it as an informal way to request a review of your application.

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigratio...ction/resettlement/final-decision/refuse.html

The issue is that reconsideration has no timelines, and usually you have to proceed with JR within 60 days of refusal. Get a lawyer.

 

[Red-John]

The issue is that reconsideration has no timelines, and usually you have to proceed with JR within 60 days of refusal. Get a lawyer.

Really appreciate your reply.
Because this could change how I plan my next steps, would you mind clarifying whether you're completely sure there's no set time limit for reconsideration requests, and that the only hard deadline is the 60‑day judicial review period?
Just trying to understand if this is based on case law / professional practice or on what happened in your own case... I'd really appreciate your response!

 

[Naturgrl]

Really appreciate your reply.
Because this could change how I plan my next steps, would you mind clarifying whether you're completely sure there's no set time limit for reconsideration requests, and that the only hard deadline is the 60‑day judicial review period?
Just trying to understand if this is based on case law / professional practice or on what happened in your own case... I'd really appreciate your response!

What I mean is that there are no timelines for reconsideration requests. You want to get it in ASAP but you may not hear back for weeks or months if file has been reopened.

 

[Red-John]

What I mean is that there are no timelines for reconsideration requests. You want to get it in ASAP but you may not hear back for weeks or months if file has been reopened.

I do understand that. My main concern is whether there is a firm deadline or limited window for either option. Because the timing determines my next steps, I need to be clear on this. I will proceed with JR first unless there is a 100% confirmed limited window for filing a reconsideration request, in which case I would pursue both in parallel. But it's also very crucial for me to know the opposite, whether a reconsideration request truly has no specific, firm submission deadline.

Sorry if this sounds redundant but you can see how important this is for me.

 

[Naturgrl]

I do understand that. My main concern is whether there is a firm deadline or limited window for either option. Because the timing determines my next steps, I need to be clear on this. I will proceed with JR first unless there is a 100% confirmed limited window for filing a reconsideration request, in which case I would pursue both in parallel. But it's also very crucial for me to know the opposite, whether a reconsideration request truly has no specific, firm submission deadline.

Sorry if this sounds redundant but you can see how important this is for me.

Talk to a lawyer for advice.