Eligibility versus admissibility in visa and immigration to Canada
Charlotte, an Australian citizen, has recently applied for immigration to Canada. However, when she asks about the status of her application, her representative says they are reviewing her eligibility and admissibility. Charlotte wonders about the difference between eligibility and admissibility to Canada regarding immigration and visa applications.
Table of contents
Eligibility is a crucial milestone in every application
Eligibility refers to meeting the requirements for a specific visa or immigration option. Depending on the application type, an officer may consider any of the following factors:
- The minimum requirements for the selected option
- Receiving the required number of points in a point-based application
- Meeting the financial requirements
Of course, this list is neither inclusive nor exclusive. For example, in specific applications, the officer explores the genuineness of the marital relationship. Ultimately, you won’t receive the status you seek if you are not eligible for an opportunity. Moreover, in most cases, officers consider your eligibility before exploring your admissibility.
Admissibility affects admission to Canada.
Even if you are eligible for immigration, visa, or permit, authorities may prevent your entry because of the absence of admissibility. Officers may find you inadmissible to Canada on medical grounds or other issues. Therefore, they ask for medical examinations and run background checks on every applicant. Sometimes your records show you are not admissible to Canada. Consequently, the officer may refuse your application even before exploring your eligibility. Inadmissibility could be because of any of the following matters:
- Criminal history
- Medical issues
- Misrepresentation
- Accompanying or even non-accompanying family members
- Other reasons (e.g., security, human rights violations, financial status)
How to resolve eligibility or admissibility problems
There is no simple answer to this question. Consequently, I have dedicated a whole category of articles to this matter on our website. However, please consider the following issues:
- Explore the eligibility requirements of each program before applying
- Beware of the subjectivity of an application and try to include enticing evidence when applying
- If you suspect being inadmissible to Canada, consult with a professional
- Do not forge documents or hide critical information from the immigration authorities
- Make sure the person who is helping you is a licensed professional
This list could go on and on, but I think this short guideline gives you an idea of how to move forward.
Let us help!
I will explore your eligibility and admissibility if you book a consultation session with me. As a result, you may make up your mind as to how to move forward. We even offer a free assessment form. However, we only contact you if we believe there is a potential option. Moreover, I run mentorship sessions for licensed practitioners. The following form is for those who are facing visa or immigration challenges.
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If you are interested in visiting or immigrating to Canada, please complete our free assessment form.
There is no fee for this assessment. We will review your information and contact you if we identify a suitable immigration pathway or other meaningful option for you.
If you would prefer direct advice about your specific situation, you may book a consultation session. This is a paid service and includes formal immigration advice from a licensed Canadian immigration practitioner.
Al Parsai, LLM, MA, RCIC-IRB
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant
Adjunct Professor, Queen’s University Faculty of Law
Instructor, Ashton College, Immigration Consulting Program
Author of 88 Tips on Immigration to Canada and Inadmissibility to Canada for Human Rights Violations
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