Top 5 Reasons Express Entry Applications Are Refused—and How to Avoid These Immigration Pitfalls

Top 5 Reasons Express Entry Applications Are Refused—and How to Avoid These Immigration Pitfalls

At Milmantas Immigration, we often meet applicants only after they’ve had their Express Entry application refused. And while every case is different, the reasons are often surprisingly common—and entirely preventable. If you’ve received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) or hope to receive one soon, it’s critical to make sure your documents are in order and your application is solid. Here’s how to avoid the top five reasons we see applicants get their Express Entry application refused.

1. Incorrect NOC Code

One of the most common issues we see is selecting the wrong National Occupational Classification (NOC) code. Your work experience is assessed against the NOC, and the government expects your duties to match the lead statement and a substantial number of the main responsibilities in the NOC description.

What does “substantial” mean? You should have performed at least 60% of the listed duties. Choosing the wrong NOC—or failing to prove your duties match—can result in outright refusal.

Copying the NOC description word-for-word without matching your real experience can also trigger a refusal. You need to demonstrate—not just claim—that your duties align with your NOC.

2. Reference Letter Doesn’t Meet IRCC Requirements

A reference letter for a new job and an employment verification letter for your immigration application are NOT THE SAME.  Your reference letters must meet IRCC’s requirements. Many applicants encounter difficulties when companies provide generic letters that overlook key elements. Your HR most likely does not know the requirements for employment verification letters that meet the immigration requirements. You need to guide them.

To be valid for immigration, the letter must:

• Be on company letterhead
• Include your full name and contact information
• Be signed by an authorized person (supervisor or HR)
• Include your job title(s), start and end dates, hours worked per week, salary and benefits
• Clearly list your duties and responsibilities

If you’ve had promotions, they must be detailed—and your NOC code may have changed accordingly. Even one missing detail could be enough to get your Express Entry application refused.

3. Proof of Settlement Funds Doesn’t Meet Format

Just like reference letters, IRCC expects financial proof in a very specific format.
Your bank letter must:

• Be on official letterhead
• Include your full name
• List account numbers
• Provide opening dates, current balances, and 6-month average balances
• Include the bank’s contact details

This last point often causes trouble—many banks don’t include the average balance by default. Also, note that assets like home equity don’t count.

You must prove to us that you can legally access the funds upon arrival to Canada.

4. Missing or Incorrect Documents

It may seem obvious, but missing even a single required document can result in a refusal. Common issues include:

• Missing police certificates from a previous country of residence
• Incomplete or incorrect ECA numbers
• Omitting a copy of the language test result
• Submitting personal translations (only certified professional translations are accepted)

Even a seemingly small oversight like a missing page in a PDF or a scan that’s hard to read can result in rejection.
A reminder: Neither you nor your family can translate your own documents. Translations must meet IRCC’s rules, and anything less can get your Express Entry application refused.

5. Incorrect Answers to Statutory Questions

These questions are critical. They ask about:

• Prior immigration history
• Medical conditions
• Criminal records
• Visa refusals in other countries

If you leave out a prior refusal from the U.S. or the U.K., for example, IRCC will likely know. They share information with other countries in the Five Eyes network (U.S., U.K., Australia, New Zealand).

Even if it was an honest mistake, it can be seen as misrepresentation, which could result in a 5-year ban.