GCMS notes: how to see what the officer wrote

• They show which concerns the officer had (for example funds, ties to home or purpose of visit).
• They help you decide whether to reapply, ask for reconsideration, or seek judicial review.
• They show whether the officer missed or misread a document you sent.

See how we use them on our refusals page.

IRCC has started giving officer decision notes with some refusals directly in its new online account, so you may not need a separate request. If your refusal didn't include them, request your file.

1. Use IRCC's ATIP online request tool. Requests for client immigration files go through IRCC's own portal.
2. Choose the right law:
   • Access to Information Act requests have a small application fee.
   • Privacy Act requests have no fee. Both are available to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and people present in Canada.
3. If you're outside Canada, someone in Canada (such as your representative) can make the request for you, with your signed consent form (IMM 5744).
4. Give enough detail to find your file: your full name, date of birth, application number (UCI) and the type of application.

The notes use short forms and codes. Look for the officer's summary near the decision, any "not satisfied" statements, and which documents they mention. Then check whether your evidence addressed each point. An RCIC can help you read them and plan the next step.

• Read the procedural fairness letter guide if IRCC asked you to respond before deciding.
• Visitor or study permit refused? See our visitor visa and study permit services.
• Want help reading your notes? Book a consultation.

• IRCC: How to submit an Access to Information or Privacy request
• IRCC: Consent form IMM 5744
• IRCC: Annual report on the Access to Information Act 2024–2025