Many applicants panic when their IRCC application shows “In Progress” for months with no update.
What most don’t realize is that delays often happen because a file has been flagged for further review — not because it’s refused, but because the officer needs more certainty.

Below are some of the most common reasons IRCC flags applications, across study permits, work permits, Express Entry, PNP, and PR files.

1. Inconsistencies Across Documents

Even small mismatches can raise concerns, such as:

• Job duties not aligning with the selected NOC
• Employment dates differing across letters, resumes, and profiles
• Education timelines that don’t clearly add up

IRCC officers assess consistency as a credibility marker. When information doesn’t align, files are often flagged for deeper review.

2. Unclear Purpose or Weak Explanation

Applications may meet eligibility requirements but still lack clarity:

• Why this program, job, or pathway?
• Why now?
• How does this fit into the applicant’s overall profile?

When intent is vague or poorly explained, officers may pause the file to assess whether the application genuinely meets program objectives.

3. Employment or Experience That Requires Verification

Work experience is one of the most scrutinized areas. Files are commonly flagged when:

• Job duties are generic or copied
• Employer details are difficult to verify
• Experience appears borderline for eligibility or CRS points

Further review allows IRCC to assess whether claimed experience is genuine and properly supported.

4. Proof of Funds That Raises Questions

Even when funds meet the minimum requirement, concerns may arise due to:

• Sudden large deposits
• Unclear source of funds
• Incomplete financial explanations

In such cases, IRCC may conduct additional review to ensure funds are accessible, legitimate, and sufficient.

5. Complex Family or Dependent Structures

Applications involving spouses, children, or dependents can trigger additional checks, especially when:

• Statuses are interlinked
• Recent changes (marriage, birth, separation) are involved
• Previous refusals exist for dependents

These situations require careful review to ensure accuracy and compliance.

6. Previous Refusals or Immigration History

A past refusal doesn’t mean a new application will fail — but it does mean the file may receive closer scrutiny.
Officers often review whether previous concerns were properly addressed before moving forward.

What Further Review Really Means

Being flagged for further review does not automatically mean refusal.
It means the officer needs more confidence before making a final decision.

However, delays at this stage can be stressful — especially when applicants don’t know what triggered the review.

Final Thoughts

Most applications aren’t delayed because applicants are ineligible — they’re delayed because the file didn’t fully answer the officer’s unspoken questions.

This is why immigration is not just about meeting requirements, but about presenting a clear, consistent, and well-structured case.

If your application has been stuck with no updates, professional review can help identify potential gaps and guide next steps before issues escalate.