GCMS Notes FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Your questions answered

What are GCMS notes?

GCMS notes are the notes and case history that immigration officers record in IRCC’s Global Case Management System while they process an application. They can show what was reviewed, what concerns were raised and the reasons behind a decision.

What are CAIPS notes, and are they different?

CAIPS was the system IRCC used before GCMS, so older files can include CAIPS records. When you request your file you receive whatever records exist for your application.

How do I get my GCMS notes from IRCC?

You make a request for your personal information through Canada’s access to information and privacy (ATIP) process. You can submit it yourself through the government’s ATIP online request service, or we can prepare and file it for you.

How much does it cost?

Our fee is shown on the pricing page and again before you pay. The government has its own rules about fees for ATIP requests; our guide explains how to check the current rules.

How long does it take?

The government must normally respond to an ATIP request within 30 days and can extend that period in some situations. We send you the records when we receive them. See the processing times page.

Who should request GCMS notes?

People whose application was refused or delayed, people preparing a new application or an appeal, and anyone who wants to see what is recorded about them.

Will requesting my GCMS notes affect my application?

A request for your own records is a separate process from your immigration application. It is not a step in how your application is assessed.

How will I receive my notes?

We send the records to you electronically after the government sends them to us. Your confirmation email explains exactly how.

Can I get a refund?

In some cases, yes. The refund policy explains when a refund is possible.

Why haven’t I received my consent form email?

Check your spam folder first and make sure the email address on your order is correct. You can look up your order on the status page. If it still has not arrived, contact us with your order reference.