Canada has strict entry requirements for foreign nationals. If you are inadmissible to Canada due to criminality, medical reasons, or other grounds, you may be denied a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit. However, under certain circumstances, you may still be allowed to enter or remain in Canada with a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP).
In this blog, we’ll break down what a TRP is, who can apply, how it works, and how it differs from other temporary permits.
What Is a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)?
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a special discretionary permit that allows an inadmissible foreign national to enter or remain in Canada for a specific reason and for a limited period, despite being otherwise ineligible under immigration laws.
A TRP is issued only when the applicant’s need to enter or remain in Canada outweighs the health or safety risks to Canadian society.
Who Needs a TRP?
You may require a TRP if you are inadmissible to Canada under any of the following grounds:
- Criminal inadmissibility(e.g., DUI, theft, assault, or other convictions)
- Medical inadmissibility(e.g., conditions deemed a risk to public health or safety)
- Non-compliance with IRPA(e.g., overstaying a visa, misrepresentation, or prior removals)
- Security inadmissibility
- Inadmissible family member– Even if you are admissible, a dependent family member’s inadmissibility may impact your case
Key Features of a TRP
Feature Description
- Validity:TRPs are issued for a specific duration (days, months, or up to 3 years)
- Multiple or Single Entry:Can be single-entry or multiple-entry, depending on the case
- Issued at Discretion:Decision lies solely with IRCC or CBSA officer; there is no right to a TRP
- Can Be Cancelled:A TRP can be cancelled at any time by an officer
- Does Not Lead to PR Automatically:A TRP holder must apply separately for permanent residence
- Medical and Background Checks Required:Applicants must submit required documentation for admissibility review
How Is a TRP Different from Criminal Rehabilitation?
Criminal Rehabilitation is a permanent solution to past criminal inadmissibility. Once approved, you are no longer considered inadmissible for those past offences.
TRPs, on the other hand:
- Are temporary fixes, issued case by case
- Do not erase your inadmissibility
- May be granted even if you’re not yet eligible for rehabilitation(which typically requires 5 years to pass since the completion of a sentence)
Many individuals apply for a TRP while they wait to become eligible for Criminal Rehabilitation.
Can You Work or Study with a TRP?
Yes — but only if your TRP explicitly authorizes you to work or study. You must apply for a work or study permit separately and indicate you are a TRP holder.
If your TRP does not allow work or study, engaging in either activity would be a breach of your permit and could lead to cancellation.
How Our Immigration Law Firm Can Help You
Applying for a TRP can be a legally complex and highly discretionary process. Approval is never guaranteed — that’s why it’s crucial to build a persuasive and well-documented application.
If you’re facing inadmissibility or have been refused entry to Canada, contact us at at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca for confidential, professional advice.
References
- IRCC – What to do if you’re inadmissible
- IRCC – Rehabilitation for Persons Who Are Inadmissible to Canada Because of Past Criminal Activity
- IRCC – Applying to remain in Canada as a temporary resident permit holder
- IRCC – Obtaining another temporary resident permit
- IRCC – Processing Time Tool