HOW A REFUSED FAMILY-CLASS SPONSORSHIP APPLICATION IS REPROCESSED AFTER YOU WIN THE APPEAL (2025 to 2026)

When a Family Class sponsorship application is refused, many families choose to appeal to the IAD. If the IAD later allows the appeal, the file is essentially revived so IRCC can reassess it. On November 26, 2025, IRCC issued new guidance on how this “reprocessing” stage works. The goal is to make the procedure clearer and prevent files from bouncing between offices.

The simplified version of the new process is as follows:

1. The file returns to the exact IRCC office that issued the refusal
   It is no longer rerouted to large centralized centres. The original office reopens the file and reassesses it in accordance with the IAD’s direction.
2. CBSA updates GCMS with the full IAD decision
   CBSA enters the appeal outcome into GCMS and uploads the IAD’s reasons. IRCC is required to follow these directions.
3. The process splits depending on whether the file is digital or paper-based
   If the file is already digitized:
   • CBSA sends a simple email notification to the responsible IRCC office.
   • IRCC begins reprocessing immediately once the notice arrives.

If the file is still physical paper:
• CBSA sends the paper file to the New Waterford Digitization Centre (NWDC).
• NWDC scans it into the system and alerts the IRCC office to begin reassessment.

4. IRCC must reassess, but cannot repeat the same error
   IRCC cannot refuse again for the reason that the IAD has already rejected. They must review the remaining parts: eligibility, requirements, security, medical issues, and any matters the IAD did not address.

What families need to understand

• Winning the appeal is not the finish line. It only reopens the application for a fresh review.
  • The new process speeds things up and reduces the risk of lost documents.
  • IRCC may still request additional evidence on issues that were not part of the appeal.
  • Strong preparation for the reassessment stage heavily influences the final outcome.

SICON can help you prepare supplemental documentation, identify remaining vulnerabilities, and guide you through the entire redetermination process so the file does not run into new obstacles.