Visa Refused?
Let's Check the Officer's Work.
Judicial review asks a simple question: was the officer's decision fair, lawful, and supported by the record? We carefully test your refusal against that standard.
Your Application Was Refused. What Now?
Most people contact me at one of three moments:
- 1.
They have just opened a refusal letter and are in shock.
- 2.
They have already tried once or twice and are wondering if it is worth fighting.
- 3.
Another representative has suggested, "Maybe you should talk to a Federal Court lawyer."
Wherever you are, the first question is the same:
Is this decision worth challenging?
When Judicial Review is the Right Step
Judicial review is not a second application. The Court asks: Was the decision-maker reasonable, fair, and lawful? We fight if:
- The refusal reasons are generic or ignore key evidence.
- The officer misread or misunderstood something important.
- You received no Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL) despite the officer having doubts.
- The decision contradicts IRCC's own guidance.
- The refusal letter is only a few lines long with no meaningful explanation.
When NOT to Go to Court
In some cases, a better-prepared new application is the right answer. This is true if:
- Your circumstances have changed significantly.
- Important documents were missing from the first application.
- The refusal was legally defensible, even if harsh.
Recent Court Successes
We don't just practice immigration law; we study the case law daily.
Unreasonableness
Are the officer's conclusions supported by the evidence? Did they overlook key documents? Is the reasoning coherent?
Procedural Fairness
Were you given a fair chance to respond to concerns? Did they rely on outside evidence without asking you?
Errors of Law
Did the officer apply the correct legal test? Did they misunderstand the legislation or binding case law?
Immediate Steps: 15 or 60 Days
Avoid rushing into new applications before understanding what went wrong.
Keep the refusal letter, all IRCC emails, and your full submission PDF.
We review deadlines and history before you decide on next steps.
The Legal Process
Stage 1: The Leave Application (Written)
This is purely "on paper." We file a detailed legal argument (Applicant's Record) explaining why the decision is flawed. A lawyer from the Department of Justice (DOJ) files the government's response. A Judge reviews these materials to decide if the case is strong enough to proceed.
If leave is granted, it means you have a strong arguable case.
Stage 2: The Hearing (Oral)
If granted Leave, the Court schedules a short oral hearing (often by video). I present submissions, the DOJ lawyer responds, and the Judge issues a decision.
The Goal: To have the Court "quash" (set aside) the refusal and send your application back to a new officer.
Across Canada and Internationally
We act for individuals and businesses in judicial reviews for:
- Study Permits & Extensions
- Work Permits (LMIA & Exempt)
- Visitor Visas (TRV)
- Start-up Visa (SUV) Refusals
- Permanent Residence (Express Entry, PNP)
- Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C)
- LMIA Refusals (ESDC/Service Canada)
Why Work With Ali Dadkhah?
Focus on Judicial Review
My practice is dedicated to Federal Court challenges. Many representatives never appear in court; I do it regularly.
Case-Law Driven Analysis
I study recent decisions daily. My strategy is built on what judges are ruling today.
Strategic Settlements
Many successful files end with a consent order (settlement) instead of a hearing. Strong written advocacy opens this door.
Start With A Focused Assessment
Time is not on your side, but you do not have to decide alone.
In our initial meeting, we review your refusal, identify deadlines, and map out your strategy.