Can a temporary resident visa be refused specifically because the officer does not believe I will leave?

Yes. A temporary resident visa can be refused specifically because the officer is not satisfied the applicant will leave Canada by the end of the authorized period, and this is a distinct, entirely valid basis for refusal, separate from anything related to dual intent. Dual intent only removes one narrow basis for refusal: an officer cannot refuse purely because the applicant wants to immigrate eventually.

A refusal based on genuine doubts about compliance can still rest on a wide range of legitimate concerns, such as weak or unclear ties to the home country, an inconsistent or troubling travel history, insufficient documentation about the purpose or funding of the trip, or answers during processing that raised questions the applicant did not adequately address. None of these concerns are excused or reduced simply because dual intent applies to the applicant's broader situation.

Understanding this distinction is important because it clarifies that citing dual intent alone is not a defence to this kind of refusal — what actually needs to be addressed is the underlying compliance concern itself, with clear, specific evidence.