Apply for Canada GCMS notes
Why do you need GCMS Notes?
GCMS notes are detailed records in the Global Case Management System used by Canada's immigration authority. They contain information about an individual's visa or immigration application, including the application process, communications, decision factors, and other relevant details.
GCMS Notes can be used to:
- Inquire about the status of your ongoing visa application & review past evaluation details.
- Retrieve personal information submitted with your visa application, including documents and forms.
- Understand the reasons for visa rejections or processing delays.
How to request GCMS notes
You can request GCMS notes using one of the options below:
GCMS Notes
Complete records of visa application; case history and notes created by assessing officers
Why request it?
Find the status of your visa application or learn why your application was refused
$39
Complete File (recommended)
Complete records of IRCC visa application including entire case history, officer notes, and copies of all documents and forms sent from/to by client.
Why request it?
Find the status of your visa application, learn why your application was refused and find out the information sent to IRCC at the time of your application
$49
CBSA Notes
Electronics notes from CBSA; includes visa application checks and information on security screenings conducted by the Canadian Border Security Agency
Why request it?
Helpful when applying for PR and citizenship. Calculate the number of days spent in Canada.
$49
Agencies involved
GCMS Notes and the Complete File are available to request from IRCC as well as CBSA. By default, we only send requests to the IRCC.
CBSA Notes are only available to request from CBSA alone.
Processing time
Current processing time is 20 days. Maximum processing time is 30 days (enforced by law).
Format of delivery
Documents are securely delivered to the provided email as a pdf file.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are GCMS Notes?
GCMS notes are the documented records and data created during the processing of an immigration application by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) through the GCMS system. They encompass details about an individual's immigration journey, such as application specifics, communication with IRCC, background verifications, and decision-making procedures. These notes are accessible upon request by the individual or their authorized representative to monitor application status, aid in appeal preparations, or support legal actions.
GCMS notes are strictly confidential and are only disclosed to authorized parties with the individual's explicit consent or as mandated by legal obligations.
What are CAIPS Notes?
CAIPS (Computer Assisted Immigration Processing System) notes are digital records of an individual's immigration dossier in Canada. They are managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and encompass details concerning an individual's visa, work permit, permanent residency, citizenship, and other associated applications.
Are GCMS notes different from CAIPS notes?
Yes, CAIPS notes and GCMS (Global Case Management System) notes are indeed distinct systems used by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for managing electronic records of an individual’s immigration file.
CAIPS notes were initially utilized by IRCC for this purpose, while GCMS notes represent a more modern and sophisticated system introduced to replace CAIPS in 2010.
GCMS notes offer more detailed and extensive information compared to CAIPS notes. They include biographic and biometric data, immigration history, prior applications, and can encompass details about security clearances, medical assessments, and other pertinent information concerning an individual’s immigration status within Canada.
What do GCMS or CAIPS notes include?
GCMS or CAIPS notes can indeed contain a range of information about an individual, such as their educational background, employment history, criminal record, medical records, and other personal details relevant to their immigration status in Canada. Individuals or their authorized representatives can request access to these notes from IRCC through a formal request process.
Who should request GCMS or CAIPS notes?
CAIPS notes are valuable for individuals monitoring the status of their Canadian immigration applications or seeking insights into visa refusals. They are also beneficial for immigration professionals like lawyers and consultants, aiding in legal counsel and client support regarding immigration matters.