Canada is a popular destination for many people who want to visit, work, study, or live in the country. However, not everyone can enter or stay in Canada as a temporary resident. Some people may be inadmissible to Canada for various reasons, such as criminality, health, security, or human rights violations. If you are one of them, you may need a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) to overcome your inadmissibility and become a temporary resident of Canada.
Table of Contents
Introduction
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a document that allows a person who is inadmissible to Canada, or who does not meet the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), to enter or remain in Canada as a temporary resident. A Temporary Resident Permit is issued by an immigration officer at a port of entry (POE), a visa office abroad, or an inland office in Canada. A TRP is usually issued for the length of your visit to Canada—for example, 1 week to attend a conference. You must leave Canada by the expiry date of the permit, or get a new permit before your current one expires.
A Temporary Resident Permit is not a visa. It does not guarantee your entry or stay in Canada. It may be cancelled by an officer at any time. The permit is no longer valid once you leave Canada, unless you have been authorized to leave and re-enter.
A Temporary Resident Permit is not a permanent solution to your inadmissibility. It does not erase your inadmissibility or grant you permanent resident status. If you want to become a permanent resident of Canada, you will need to apply for permanent residence and meet the eligibility criteria.
In this article, we will explain the eligibility criteria for a Temporary Resident Permit, the reasons for applying for one, the application process, how to fill out the application form, what supporting documents you need, what to expect after submitting your application, what to do if your application is refused, how to extend your Temporary Resident Permit, and the advantages of working with an immigration lawyer to obtain a Temporary Resident Permit. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about Temporary Resident Permits.
Eligibility Criteria for a Temporary Resident Permit
To be eligible for a Temporary Resident Permit, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be inadmissible to Canada, or not meet the requirements of the IRPA
- You must have a valid reason for needing to enter or stay in Canada
- You must demonstrate that your need to enter or stay in Canada outweighs the risk you pose to Canadians and Canadian society
- You must comply with any conditions imposed on your Temporary Resident Permit
- You must not be subject to any removal orders or immigration warrants
Reasons for Applying for a Temporary Resident Permit
There are many reasons why you may need a Temporary Resident Permit to enter or stay in Canada as a temporary resident. Some of the most common reasons are:
- You have a criminal record or conviction that makes you inadmissible to Canada
- You have a medical condition that makes you inadmissible to Canada
- You have overstayed your authorized period of stay in Canada
- You have worked or studied in Canada without authorization
- You have been involved in human rights violations, terrorism, espionage, organized crime, or war crimes
- You have misrepresented yourself or provided false information on your application
- You have been refused an electronic travel authorization (eTA), a visitor visa (TRV), or a super visa
Depending on your reason for needing a Temporary Resident Permit, you may need to apply for one before you travel to Canada, or after you arrive at a POE. In some situations, you may need a Temporary Resident Permit even if you already have an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa.
The Application Process for a Temporary Resident Permit
The application process for a Temporary Resident Permit depends on where and how you apply. There are three ways to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit:
- At a Canadian visa office abroad
- At a Canadian port of entry (POE)
- At an inland office in Canada
Applying at a Canadian visa office abroad
If you are outside Canada and you know that you are inadmissible to Canada, or that you do not meet the requirements of the IRPA, you should apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at a Canadian visa office abroad before you travel to Canada. This way, you can avoid being denied entry at the border.
To apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at a Canadian visa office abroad, you will need to:
- Obtain the required documents
- Submit your application online or by mail
- Pay the processing fee of $200 CAD
- Wait for the decision on your application
The required documents include:
- A completed Application for Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
- A completed Schedule 1 – Application for a Temporary Resident Visa Made Outside Canada
- A completed Application for a Temporary Resident Permit
- A valid passport or travel document
- Two passport-sized photos
- A letter of explanation stating why you need a Temporary Resident Permit and how your need outweighs the risk
- Any supporting documents that prove your need and your admissibility, such as:
- Evidence of your travel plans and purpose of visit
- Evidence of your ties to your home country and your intention to leave Canada
- Evidence of your financial situation and ability to support yourself in Canada
- Evidence of your criminal record or conviction, if applicable
- Evidence of your medical condition or treatment, if applicable
- Evidence of your involvement in human rights violations, terrorism, espionage, organized crime, or war crimes, if applicable
- Evidence of your misrepresentation or false information, if applicable
- Evidence of any rehabilitation or reformation efforts, if applicable
You can submit your application online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, or by mail to the visa office responsible for your country or region. You will need to create an online account, fill out the forms electronically, upload the scanned copies of your documents, and pay the fee online. Alternatively, you can download the forms from the IRCC website, print them out, fill them in by hand, and mail them along with your documents and fee payment to the visa office.
The processing time for a Temporary Resident Permit application at a visa office abroad varies depending on the country and the complexity of the case. It can take from a few weeks to several months. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of approval and a Temporary Resident Permit document. You will need to present these documents along with your passport and other travel documents when you arrive at a POE in Canada. If your application is refused, you will receive a letter of refusal stating the reasons for the decision.
Applying at a Canadian port of entry (POE)
If you are outside Canada and you are not sure whether you are inadmissible to Canada, or whether you meet the requirements of the IRPA, you may be able to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at a POE when you arrive in Canada. However, this option is not available for everyone. You can only apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at a POE if:
- You are from a visa-exempt country and you have an eTA
- You are from a visa-required country and you have a TRV or a super visa
- You are from the United States and you do not need an eTA or a TRV
To apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at a POE, you will need to:
- Present your passport or travel document and any other required documents (such as an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa) to an immigration officer
- Explain why you are inadmissible to Canada or why you do not meet the requirements of the IRPA
- Explain why you need to enter or stay in Canada and how your need outweighs the risk
- Provide any supporting documents that prove your need and your admissibility (see above)
- Pay the processing fee of $200 CAD
The immigration officer will assess your application on the spot and decide whether to issue you a Temporary Resident Permit or not. The decision is discretionary and depends on the officer’s judgment. The officer may also ask you additional questions or request more documents.
If your application is approved, you will receive a Temporary Resident Permit document that allows you to enter or stay in Canada as a temporary resident. The officer will also stamp your passport and indicate the expiry date of your permit. If your application is refused, you will be denied entry to Canada and asked to leave immediately.
Applying at an inland office in Canada
If you are already in Canada as a temporary resident and you want to extend your stay or change your status, but you are inadmissible to Canada or do not meet the requirements of the IRPA, you may be able to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at an inland office in Canada. However, this option is also not available for everyone. You can only apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at an inland office if:
- You have valid temporary resident status in Canada (such as visitor, worker, student, or protected person)
- You have not been issued a removal order or an immigration warrant
- You have not been convicted of any serious crimes in Canada
To apply for a Temporary Resident Permit at an inland office in Canada, you will need to:
- Obtain the required documents (see above)
- Submit your application online through the IRCC website
- Pay the processing fee of $200 CAD
- Wait for the decision on your application
The processing time for a Temporary Resident Permit application at an inland office in Canada varies depending on the office and the complexity of the case. It can take from a few months to over a year. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a Temporary Resident Permit document that allows you to stay in Canada as a temporary resident. You will also receive a new visitor record, work permit, or study permit, depending on your situation. If your application is refused, you will receive a letter of refusal stating the reasons for the decision. You may also be asked to leave Canada by a certain date.
How to Fill out a Temporary Resident Permit Application Form
The application form for a Temporary Resident Permit is called IMM 1444 – Application for a Temporary Resident Permit. You can find it on the IRCC website. The form has four sections:
- Section A: Personal Details
- Section B: Contact Information
- Section C: Details of Visit to Canada
- Section D: Declaration of Applicant
Here is a detailed guide to filling out the application form:
Section A: Personal Details
In this section, you need to provide your personal information, such as:
- Your full name
- Your date and place of birth
- Your gender
- Your marital status
- Your citizenship
- Your passport or travel document number, issuing country, and expiry date
- Your current country of residence and status
- Your previous countries of residence in the past five years and status
- Your national identity document number, if applicable
- Your UCI (unique client identifier), if you have one
You also need to answer some questions about your background, such as:
- Whether you have ever applied for or obtained a Temporary Resident Permit before
- Whether you have ever been refused entry to Canada or any other country
- Whether you have ever been convicted of or committed any crime or offence in any country
- Whether you have ever been involved in any human rights violations, terrorism, espionage, organized crime, or war crimes
- Whether you have ever had any serious health problems or contagious diseases
- Whether you have ever lied or provided false information on an immigration application
You must answer these questions truthfully and provide details if you answer yes to any of them.
Section B: Contact Information
In this section, you need to provide your contact information, such as:
- Your current mailing address
- Your telephone number and email address
- The name and address of a person who can be contacted in case of an emergency
You also need to indicate whether you have an authorized representative who is helping you with your application. An authorized representative is someone who has your permission to communicate with IRCC on your behalf, such as a lawyer, a consultant, a family member, or a friend. If you have an authorized representative, you need to provide their name, address, telephone number, email address, and relationship to you. You also need to fill out and sign an additional form called IMM 5476 – Use of a Representative.
Section C: Details of Visit to Canada
In this section, you need to provide details about your visit to Canada, such as:
- The purpose of your visit (such as tourism, business, family visit, study, work, etc.)
- The duration of your visit (the dates you plan to arrive and depart)
- The place(s) you plan to visit in Canada (the city or province)
- The name and address of the person or organization that invited you to Canada, if applicable
- The name and address of the person or organization that will pay for your trip and expenses in Canada, if applicable
You also need to explain why you need a Temporary Resident Permit and how your need outweighs the risk. You need to provide a clear and detailed explanation of your situation and circumstances that make you inadmissible to Canada or unable to meet the requirements of the IRPA. You also need to provide evidence of your need and your admissibility (see above).
Section D: Declaration of Applicant
In this section, you need to read and agree with the declaration statements. These statements confirm that:
- You have answered all the questions on the form truthfully and completely
- You understand that providing false or misleading information may result in refusal or removal from Canada
- You authorize IRCC to collect, use, and disclose your personal information for immigration purposes
- You consent to medical examinations if required by IRCC
You also need to sign and date the form. If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or legal guardian must sign for you.
Supporting Documents for a Temporary Resident Permit Application
As mentioned above, you need to provide supporting documents that prove your need and your admissibility when applying for a Temporary Resident Permit. These documents may vary depending on your reason for needing a Temporary Resident Permit and your situation. However, some of the common supporting documents are:
Evidence of your travel plans and purpose of visit
This may include:
- A copy of your itinerary
- A copy of your flight tickets or reservation
- A copy of your hotel booking or accommodation arrangement
- A letter of invitation from a person or organization in Canada, if applicable
- A letter of support from your employer, school, or sponsor, if applicable
These documents should show the dates and details of your travel and the reason for your visit.
Evidence of your ties to your home country and your intention to leave Canada
This may include:
- A copy of your property deeds or rental agreement
- A copy of your bank statements or tax returns
- A copy of your employment contract or letter from your employer
- A copy of your enrollment letter or transcript from your school
- A copy of your family members’ passports or birth certificates
These documents should show that you have a stable and established life in your home country and that you have strong reasons to return after your visit.
Evidence of your financial situation and ability to support yourself in Canada
This may include:
- A copy of your bank statements or savings account
- A copy of your income statements or pay slips
- A copy of your credit card statements or bills
- A letter of financial support from a person or organization in Canada, if applicable
These documents should show that you have enough funds to cover your travel and living expenses in Canada and that you will not rely on public assistance.
Evidence of your criminal record or conviction, if applicable
This may include:
- A copy of your police certificate or criminal record check from every country where you have lived for more than six months since the age of 18
- A copy of your court documents or judgments that show the details and outcomes of your charges or convictions
- A copy of your pardon or record suspension, if applicable
These documents should show the nature and severity of your criminal history and whether you have completed any sentences or conditions.
Evidence of your medical condition or treatment, if applicable
This may include:
- A copy of your medical report or diagnosis from a licensed physician
- A copy of your prescription or medication list
- A copy of your medical insurance or coverage plan
- A letter from a medical professional in Canada who has agreed to treat you, if applicable
These documents should show the type and extent of your medical condition and whether it poses a danger to public health or safety.
Evidence of your involvement in human rights violations, terrorism, espionage, organized crime, or war crimes, if applicable
This may include:
- A copy of any official documents or reports that indicate your involvement in any such activities
- A letter from a relevant authority or organization that confirms or denies your involvement in any such activities
- A letter from a lawyer or human rights advocate who represents you or supports you, if applicable
These documents should show the facts and circumstances of your involvement in any such activities and whether you have been held accountable or exonerated.
Evidence of your misrepresentation or false information, if applicable
This may include:
- A copy of any previous immigration applications that you have submitted to Canada or any other country
- A copy of any correspondence or communication that shows the false or misleading information that you have provided
- An explanation letter that admits and apologizes for your misrepresentation or false information
These documents should show the details and consequences of your misrepresentation or false information and whether you have taken any steps to correct it.
Evidence of any rehabilitation or reformation efforts, if applicable
This may include:
- A copy of any certificates or diplomas that show your completion of any education, training, counseling, therapy, or community service programs
- A copy of any letters or testimonials that show your positive contributions to society, such as volunteer work, donations, awards, recognition, etc.
- A letter from yourself that expresses your remorse, regret, and change for the better
These documents should show that you have made efforts to overcome your past mistakes and improve yourself as a person.
What to Expect After Submitting a Temporary Resident Permit Application
After you submit your Temporary Resident Permit application, you will need to wait for the decision from IRCC. Depending on where and how you applied, you may also need to do some additional steps, such as:
- Provide your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) if you have not done so already
- Undergo a medical examination if you are required to do so
- Attend an interview with a visa officer if you are asked to do so
- Submit any additional documents or information that IRCC requests
You can check the status of your application online through your IRCC account or by using the online tool on the IRCC website. You can also contact the visa office or the inland office where you applied for updates.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a Temporary Resident Permit document. You will also receive a new visitor record, work permit, or study permit, depending on your situation. You will need to follow the conditions and expiry date of your TRP and your temporary resident status.
If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
Temporary Resident Permit Refusal: What to Do Next
If your TRP application is refused, you may feel disappointed and frustrated. However, you may still have some options to overcome your inadmissibility and enter or stay in Canada as a temporary resident. Some of these options are:
- Appealing the refusal
- Applying for a different type of permit or status
- Applying for permanent residence
- Applying for criminal rehabilitation or record suspension
- Applying for a humanitarian and compassionate consideration
Appealing the refusal
Depending on where and how you applied for a TRP, you may be able to appeal the refusal decision to an independent tribunal or court. For example:
- If you applied for a TRP at a visa office abroad and your application was refused, you may be able to apply for a judicial review at the Federal Court of Canada within 60 days of receiving the refusal letter.
- If you applied for a TRP at an inland office in Canada and your application was refused, you may be able to apply for an appeal at the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) within 30 days of receiving the refusal letter.
- If you applied for a TRP at a POE in Canada and your application was refused, you may not be able to appeal the decision unless you have grounds to challenge it on constitutional or human rights grounds.
To appeal the refusal decision, you will need to fill out and submit an application form and pay a fee. You will also need to provide reasons and evidence to support your appeal. You may need to hire a lawyer to represent you in the appeal process.
The appeal process can take from several months to over a year. During this time, you may be allowed to stay in Canada until a final decision is made on your appeal. However, this is not guaranteed and depends on your situation.
If your appeal is successful, your TRP application will be sent back to IRCC for reconsideration. If your appeal is unsuccessful, your refusal decision will be confirmed and you may be asked to leave Canada.
Applying for a different type of permit or status
If your TRP application is refused, you may be able to apply for a different type of permit or status that allows you to enter or stay in Canada as a temporary resident. For example:
- If you are inadmissible to Canada because of criminality, but your conviction occurred more than 10 years ago and was not serious, you may be eligible for deemed rehabilitation. This means that you are no longer considered inadmissible and can apply for an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa without needing a TRP.
- If you are inadmissible to Canada because of health reasons, but your condition does not pose a danger to public health or safety or cause excessive demand on health or social services, you may be eligible for an exemption from medical inadmissibility. This means that you can apply for an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa without needing a TRP.
- If you are inadmissible to Canada because of security reasons, but your involvement in any activities was minimal or involuntary, or occurred under duress or coercion, you may be eligible for an exemption from security inadmissibility. This means that you can apply for an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa without needing a TRP.
To apply for a different type of permit or status, you will need to fill out and submit an application form and pay a fee. You will also need to provide evidence of your eligibility and admissibility. You may need to hire a lawyer to assist you with your application.
The processing time for a different type of permit or status varies depending on the type and the complexity of the case. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a document that allows you to enter or stay in Canada as a temporary resident. You will need to follow the conditions and expiry date of your permit or status.
If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
Applying for permanent residence
If your TRP application is refused, you may be able to apply for permanent residence in Canada. Permanent residence is a status that allows you to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely. However, applying for permanent residence is not easy and requires meeting certain eligibility criteria and requirements.
There are different programs and categories that you can apply for permanent residence under, such as:
- Economic immigration programs, such as Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, Atlantic Immigration Pilot, etc.
- Family sponsorship programs, such as spouse or partner sponsorship, parent or grandparent sponsorship, child or dependent sponsorship, etc.
- Humanitarian and compassionate grounds, such as refugee protection, protected person status, etc.
To apply for permanent residence, you will need to fill out and submit an application form and pay a fee. You will also need to provide evidence of your eligibility and admissibility. You may need to hire a lawyer to assist you with your application.
The processing time for permanent residence varies depending on the program and the complexity of the case. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a confirmation of permanent residence (COPR) document. You will need to present this document along with your passport and other travel documents when you arrive in Canada as a permanent resident. You will also receive a permanent resident card (PR card) by mail within a few weeks.
If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
Applying for criminal rehabilitation or record suspension
If your TRP application is refused because of criminality, you may be able to apply for criminal rehabilitation or record suspension. Criminal rehabilitation is a process that allows you to overcome your criminal inadmissibility if you have committed an offence outside Canada that would be punishable by at least 10 years in Canada. Record suspension (formerly known as pardon) is a process that allows you to seal your criminal record if you have committed an offence in Canada and completed your sentence.
To apply for criminal rehabilitation or record suspension, you will need to fill out and submit an application form and pay a fee. You will also need to provide evidence of your criminal history and your rehabilitation efforts. You may need to hire a lawyer to assist you with your application.
The processing time for criminal rehabilitation or record suspension varies depending on the type and severity of the offence and the complexity of the case. It can take from several months to over two years. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website or the Parole Board of Canada website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a document that confirms your criminal rehabilitation or record suspension. This means that you are no longer inadmissible to Canada because of criminality and can apply for an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa without needing a TRP.
If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
Applying for humanitarian and compassionate consideration
If your TRP application is refused because of any other reason that makes you inadmissible to Canada or unable to meet the requirements of the IRPA, you may be able to apply for humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) consideration. H&C consideration is a discretionary process that allows IRCC to grant you an exemption from certain immigration rules or requirements based on your personal circumstances and the best interests of any children involved.
To apply for H&C consideration, you will need to fill out and submit an application form and pay a fee. You will also need to provide evidence of your situation and circumstances that warrant H&C consideration, such as:
- The hardship or suffering you would face if you leave Canada
- The establishment and integration you have in Canada
- The family ties and support you have in Canada
- The best interests of any children affected by your situation
- The humanitarian or compassionate factors that apply to your case
You may need to hire a lawyer to assist you with your application.
The processing time for H&C consideration varies depending on the complexity of the case. It can take from several months to over two years. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a document that confirms your H&C consideration. This means that you are exempt from certain immigration rules or requirements and can apply for an eTA, a TRV, a super visa, or permanent residence without needing a TRP.
If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
Temporary Resident Permit Extension
If you have a valid TRP and you want to extend your stay in Canada as a temporary resident, you may be able to apply for a TRP extension. However, this option is also not available for everyone. You can only apply for a TRP extension if:
- You have valid temporary resident status in Canada (such as visitor, worker, student, or protected person)
- You have not been issued a removal order or an immigration warrant
- You have not been convicted of any serious crimes in Canada
- You still have a valid reason for needing a TRP and your need still outweighs the risk
To apply for a TRP extension, you will need to:
- Obtain the required documents (see above)
- Submit your application online through the IRCC website
- Pay the processing fee of $200 CAD
- Wait for the decision on your application
The processing time for a TRP extension varies depending on the office and the complexity of the case. It can take from a few months to over a year. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a new TRP document that allows you to stay in Canada as a temporary resident. You will also receive a new visitor record, work permit, or study permit, depending on your situation. If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
The Advantages of Working with an Immigration Lawyer to Obtain a Temporary Resident Permit
As you can see, applying for a TRP is not an easy or straightforward process. It involves many steps, forms, documents, fees, and decisions. It also requires a lot of knowledge, skill, and experience in immigration law and practice.
That is why it may be beneficial to work with an immigration lawyer who can help you with your TRP application. An immigration lawyer can:
- Assess your eligibility and admissibility for a TRP
- Advise you on the best way and time to apply for a TRP
- Prepare and submit your application form and supporting documents
- Communicate with IRCC on your behalf
- Represent you in any interviews or appeals
- Increase your chances of success
Working with an immigration lawyer can save you time, money, and stress. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that your case is handled by a professional who knows what they are doing.
If you are looking for an immigration lawyer who can help you with your TRP application, contact us today. We have years of experience and expertise in helping people like you overcome their inadmissibility and enter or stay in Canada as temporary residents. We offer free consultations and affordable fees. We are ready to assist you with your TRP application.
Temporary Resident Permit Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about TRPs:
What is the processing time for a TRP application?
The processing time for a TRP application depends on where and how you apply. It can take from a few weeks to several months at a visa office abroad, from a few minutes to several hours at a POE in Canada, or from a few months to over a year at an inland office in Canada. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
Can I travel outside of Canada while holding a TRP?
If you have a valid TRP and you want to travel outside of Canada, you may be able to do so, but you will need to obtain authorization from IRCC before you leave. You will also need to have a valid passport or travel document, and an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa, depending on your country of citizenship and the purpose of your visit.
To obtain authorization to travel outside of Canada while holding a TRP, you will need to fill out and submit an application form and pay a fee. You will also need to provide evidence of your travel plans and your need to return to Canada. You may need to hire a lawyer to assist you with your application.
The processing time for an authorization to travel outside of Canada while holding a TRP varies depending on the complexity of the case. It can take from a few weeks to several months. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a document that confirms your authorization to travel outside of Canada while holding a TRP. You will need to present this document along with your passport, TRP, and other travel documents when you re-enter Canada. If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
How long is a TRP valid for?
A TRP is valid for the length of your visit to Canada, or until the expiry date indicated on the permit, whichever comes first. The validity period of a TRP depends on the discretion of the immigration officer who issues it. It can range from a few days to three years. However, most TRPs are issued for six months or less.
You must leave Canada by the expiry date of your TRP, or apply for an extension before your current permit expires. If you stay in Canada beyond the expiry date of your TRP without authorization, you will lose your temporary resident status and may be subject to removal from Canada.
How can I be sure that my TRP application will be approved?
There is no guarantee that your TRP application will be approved. The decision is based on the discretion of the immigration officer who assesses your application. The officer will consider various factors, such as:
- The reason for your inadmissibility or inability to meet the requirements of the IRPA
- The reason for your need to enter or stay in Canada
- The risk you pose to Canadians and Canadian society
- The benefits of your visit to Canada
- The availability of other options or solutions
- The conditions and expiry date of your TRP
To increase your chances of approval, you should:
- Apply for a TRP as early as possible
- Provide complete and accurate information on your application form
- Provide sufficient and relevant supporting documents
- Explain clearly and convincingly why you need a TRP and how your need outweighs the risk
- Comply with any requests or instructions from IRCC
- Hire a lawyer to assist you with your application
Can I study in Canada while holding a TRP?
If you have a valid TRP and you want to study in Canada, you may be able to do so, but you will need to obtain authorization from IRCC before you enroll in any course or program. You will also need to have a valid passport or travel document, and an eTA, a TRV, or a super visa, depending on your country of citizenship and the purpose of your visit.
To obtain authorization to study in Canada while holding a TRP, you will need to fill out and submit an application form and pay a fee. You will also need to provide evidence of your acceptance by a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada, your financial ability to pay for your tuition and living expenses in Canada, and your intention to leave Canada after completing your studies. You may need to hire a lawyer to assist you with your application.
The processing time for an authorization to study in Canada while holding a TRP varies depending on the complexity of the case. It can take from a few weeks to several months. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notification and a document that confirms your authorization to study in Canada while holding a TRP. You will also receive a new study permit that allows you to study in Canada as a temporary resident. If your application is refused, you will receive a notification and a letter of refusal. The letter will explain the reasons for the refusal and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
Conclusion
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a document that allows a person who is inadmissible to Canada, or who does not meet the requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), to enter or remain in Canada as a temporary resident. A TRP is issued by an immigration officer at a port of entry (POE), a visa office abroad, or an inland office in Canada. A TRP is usually issued for the length of your visit to Canada—for example, 1 week to attend a conference. You must leave Canada by the expiry date of the permit, or get a new permit before your current one expires.
To be eligible for a TRP, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be inadmissible to Canada, or not meet the requirements of the IRPA
- You must have a valid reason for needing to enter or stay in Canada
- You must demonstrate that your need to enter or stay in Canada outweighs the risk you pose to Canadians and Canadian society
- You must comply with any conditions imposed on your TRP
- You must not be subject to any removal orders or immigration warrants
There are three ways to apply for a TRP:
- At a Canadian visa office abroad
- At a Canadian port of entry (POE)
- At an inland office in Canada
The application process for a TRP involves filling out and submitting an application form and supporting documents, paying a processing fee of $200 CAD, and waiting for the decision on your application. The processing time for a TRP application varies depending on where and how you apply. It can take from a few weeks to several months at a visa office abroad, from a few minutes to several hours at a POE in Canada, or from a few months to over a year at an inland office in Canada.
If your TRP application is approved, you will receive a TRP document that allows you to enter or stay in Canada as a temporary resident. You will also receive a new visitor record, work permit, or study permit, depending on your situation. If your TRP application is refused, you will receive a letter of refusal stating the reasons for the decision and whether you have any options to appeal or review the decision.
If you want to extend your stay in Canada as a temporary resident while holding a TRP, you may be able to apply for a TRP extension. However, this option is also not available for everyone. You can only apply for a TRP extension if you have valid temporary resident status in Canada, you have not been issued a removal order or an immigration warrant, you have not been convicted of any serious crimes in Canada, and you still have a valid reason for needing a TRP and your need still outweighs the risk.
Applying for a TRP is not an easy or straightforward process. It requires a lot of knowledge, skill, and experience in immigration law and practice. That is why it may be beneficial to work with an immigration lawyer who can help you with your TRP application. An immigration lawyer can assess your eligibility and admissibility for a TRP, advise you on the best way and time to apply for a TRP, prepare and submit your application form and supporting documents, communicate with IRCC on your behalf, represent you in any interviews or appeals, and increase your chances of success.
We hope that this article has helped you understand what is a Temporary Resident Permit and how to get one in Canada. If you have any questions or comments about this topic, please feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you with your immigration needs. Thank you for reading. 🙏
