How to Withdraw Application from IRCC
- Ansari Immigration
- May 26
- 5 min read
Knowing how to withdraw application from IRCC starts with two things: the method depends on
your application type, and the refund you receive depends on how far along processing has gone.
For most applications, the process uses a simple online web form. A small number of application
types, including citizenship and family sponsorship, have specific steps you must follow instead.
When Can You Withdraw Your IRCC Application?
IRCC allows you to request a withdrawal in two situations:
Processing has not yet started on your application
Processing is still underway
Processing starts when IRCC determines your application is complete. It ends when a final
decision is made. There are two situations where IRCC may refuse your withdrawal request:
Your application has already been fully processed and a decision has been issued.
Your application is undergoing additional review, such as security or admissibility screening.
If you are unsure where your application stands, check your status in your IRCC online account.
How to Withdraw Application from IRCC: Step by Step
For most applications — including visitor visas, work permits, study permits, and permanent
residence applications submitted through Express Entry — the process is as follows:
Go to the IRCC withdrawal web form on canada.ca.
Under "Tell us about your request," write a clear statement that you want to withdraw your
application.
Explain your reason for withdrawing.
Include the date you submitted your application.
Include your payment receipt number, if you have it.
Attach a letter of explanation if you want to support your request (optional but helpful).
Submit the form and keep a copy for your records.
IRCC will review your request and contact you if more information is needed. They will also notify
you if they refuse the withdrawal.
Applications with Specific Withdrawal Instructions
Before submitting the general web form, check whether your application falls into one of these
categories, each of which has a different process:
Citizenship applications:
You must complete and sign Form CIT 0027. Details are on canada.ca.
Family sponsorship:
Family sponsorship withdrawals each follow the specific steps outlined in the after-you-apply
section of that sponsorship stream. The general web form does not apply.
Permanent resident card:
Use the specific instructions in the IRCC Help Centre for PR card applications rather than the
standard web form.
International Experience Canada (IEC):
Specific withdrawal steps apply and fee refund rules differ from other programs.
Asylum claims:
Submit the withdrawal through the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, not through the
IRCC web form
If your application does not appear in the list above, the general web form applies.
Will You Get a Refund When You Withdraw?
Whether you recover your fees depends on the timing of your withdrawal:
When you withdraw | Refund outcome |
Before processing starts | You may receive a full refund |
After processing starts | Partial refund only |
After IRCC approves your application | No refund |
After IRCC refuses your application | Partial refund only |
Fees that can be refunded after processing starts include: Right of Permanent Residence Fee
(RPRF), right of citizenship fee, open work permit holder fee (LMIA-exempt workers only),
employer compliance fee (employers only), and IEC-specific fees.
How refunds are issued: If you applied and paid online, IRCC issues the refund automatically. If
you paid by mail or at a visa application centre, you may need to submit a separate refund
request. eTA fees are non-refundable in all cases.
Not sure whether withdrawing is the right move?Cancelling an IRCC application can affect your status in Canada, your Express Entry eligibility, and how future applications are reviewed. Book a consultation with Amir Ansari RCIC before you submit a withdrawal request. Amir is a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant based in Vancouver who can review your options and help you understand the impact of withdrawing on your specific situation.
Why This Matters for Your Immigration Future
Withdrawing an application is not a neutral step. It can have real downstream effects:
Status in Canada:
If you are in Canada on the basis of an active application — for example, if you submitted a work
permit extension and are on implied status while it is processed — withdrawing that application
may affect your right to remain in Canada. Do not withdraw without confirming your current status
first.
Express Entry profile:
Withdrawing a permanent residence application submitted through Express Entry does not
automatically remove your Express Entry profile from the pool. You may still receive a future
Invitation to Apply, but you will need to submit a new application and pay new fees.
Application history:
IRCC retains records of all withdrawn applications. A withdrawal does not create an admissibility
finding, but officers reviewing future applications will see that a previous application was
withdrawn. Context matters, and explaining the withdrawal clearly can protect your future
submissions.
If your circumstances have changed — a job offer fell through, a relationship broke down in a
sponsorship case, or you want to switch programs entirely — getting advice before withdrawing
can help you find a better path. In some cases, it is possible to amend the application or transfer
fees rather than cancel outright.
For clients navigating a work permit, Express Entry permanent residence, or family sponsorship
process, Ansari Immigration handles withdrawal scenarios regularly. You may also find our post
on what IRCC portal statuses mean helpful if you are trying to understand where your application
currently stands before deciding to withdraw.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Withdraw an Application from IRCC
How do I withdraw my Express Entry profile?
Log into your IRCC online account. On the main page, find the section "View the applications you
submitted" and click the orange "Withdraw profile" button. On the next screen, click "Continue" to
confirm. Withdrawing your profile removes you from the Express Entry pool immediately.
Will I get a refund if I withdraw my IRCC application?
It depends on timing. If you withdraw before processing starts, you may receive a full refund. After
processing begins, only certain fees are refunded, including the Right of Permanent Residence
Fee and the right of citizenship fee. If IRCC has already approved your application, fees will not be
refunded. Online applicants receive automatic refunds; others may need to request one
separately.
How do I withdraw my application for family sponsorship?
Family sponsorship withdrawals use specific instructions depending on the relationship category:
spouse or partner, parent or grandparent, or other relatives. Each has its own withdrawal steps
outlined in the after-you-apply guides on canada.ca. The general IRCC withdrawal web form is not
used for family sponsorship cases.
How do I withdraw my permanent resident card application?
Permanent resident card applications have their own withdrawal instructions available in the IRCC
Help Centre. Follow those specific steps rather than the general web form.
Can I withdraw my eTA application?
Yes, but the $7 eTA application fee is non-refundable. To withdraw, use the IRCC withdrawal web
form and provide your application number. IRCC will stop processing the application, but no refund
will be issued.
Ready to take action, or still weighing your options? Whether you are looking to cancel an IRCC application or find a more effective path forward, book a consultation with Amir Ansari RCIC. Amir works with clients in Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, and across Canada to resolve complex immigration situations, including cases where withdrawing, switching programs, or resubmitting with a stronger file may be the right answer.
This article is for general information only. It is not legal advice. Program criteria, requirements, processing times, and selection approaches can change without notice. Always confirm details on official government websites or consult a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) for advice specific to your situation.
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