Temporary Entry
Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
If you are inadmissible to Canada or do not meet an immigration-law requirement but have a compelling reason to enter or remain temporarily, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) may provide limited authorization. A TRP is discretionary and does not remove the underlying inadmissibility or non-compliance.
01 What Is a Temporary Resident Permit?
A Temporary Resident Permit allows a foreign national who is inadmissible or does not meet the requirements of Canada’s immigration law to enter or remain in Canada when an officer decides that issuing the permit is justified.
The permit gives temporary resident status for the period stated on it. It may be issued with conditions and may be cancelled at any time. It does not correct or permanently overcome the reason you are inadmissible or non-compliant.
02 When May a TRP Be Considered?
A TRP is not issued simply because a person wants to travel or remain in Canada. The request must address three connected questions.
Inadmissibility or Non-Compliance
For an initial TRP, you must be a foreign national who is inadmissible to Canada or does not meet an immigration-law requirement and who does not currently hold temporary resident status. The issue may involve criminality, medical grounds, misrepresentation or an inadmissible family member, or non-compliance such as an overstay or unauthorized work or study.
A Compelling Reason
You must explain why your need to enter or remain in Canada is compelling. The request should clearly set out the purpose, timing and circumstances, and include documents that support those facts.
Need Weighed Against Risk
The reasons and evidence supporting temporary presence in Canada.
The nature and seriousness of the risk to Canadian society.
A TRP is issued only when an officer finds that the need to enter or stay outweighs the health or safety risks. Approval is never guaranteed, even where the inadmissibility appears minor.
03 What Does a TRP Authorize?
The scope of your authorization depends on the permit’s validity dates and conditions.
Specified Period and Conditions
A TRP gives you temporary resident status for the period shown on the document. A single permit can be valid for up to three years. You must obey Canadian law, comply with the permit’s conditions and take any action IRCC requires to address the underlying issue.
A TRP Does Not Authorize Work or Study
You must have the required work permit or study permit before working or studying. If your TRP is valid for at least six months, you may apply from inside Canada for a work permit or study permit, but approval is a separate decision.
Leaving Canada or Needing More Time
A TRP generally stops being valid when you leave Canada unless it specifically authorizes re-entry. If you need to remain longer, apply for another TRP well before the current permit expires. TRP applicants do not benefit from maintained status, and expired TRP status cannot be restored.
04 Frequently Asked Questions
Is a TRP the same as a visitor visa?+
Does a TRP remove inadmissibility?+
Can I work or study with a TRP?+
Can I leave Canada and return on the same TRP?+
Can I extend a TRP?+
Does receiving a TRP guarantee admission to Canada?+
Talk to a Licensed Expert
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