Temporary Resident Permit

If you are unable to enter Canada, a TRP may allow you to overcome inadmissibility for a for a temporary period of time. The individual must prove that there is a significant reason they must enter Canada.

What is a Temporary Resident Permit?

Formerly known as a "minister's permit," a foreign national may be issued a temporary resident permit (TRP) if an officer believes admission or stay in Canada is justified in the circumstances. 

This type of permit can be issued for many reasons, including, 

  • You are barred from entering Canada as a temporary resident due to inadmissibility or failure to meet the requirements as of the Act 

  • You are already in Canada and do not meet the requirements of another program. For example, you are a temporary resident who has lost status and does not meet the requirements for restoration of status, but you wish to remain in Canada. 

Before applying for a TRP, you should explore all other options available. TRP's, similar to humanitarian and compassionate applications, are considered in only exceptional circumstances. 

Temporary Resident Permit for Criminality Inadmissibility 

If you have been charged or convicted of a criminal offence and are not eligible for criminal rehabilitation or deemed rehabilitation, a TRP may be issued authorizing your temporary entry to Canada.

In your application, you must demonstrate that criminal activity is unlikely to occur and the issuance of a TRP outweighs any risks that may exist. Officers will consider whether the need to enter or remain in Canada is compelling.

How long is a TRP issued for? 

TRPs are generally issued for a limited period of time to satisfy the purpose of entry or continued stay in Canada. Despite this, they can be valid for up to a period of three years. In some cases, when an application for a TRP is received, an officer may consider issuing a work or study permit if the TRP is valid for at least six months. 

TRPs are normally issued for single entry and, once used, will no longer be valid when you have departed Canada. If you need to enter Canada again and are still inadmissible, you will need to apply for a new TRP. However, in certain cases, an officer may approve a multiple entry TRP. A multiple entry TRP will remain valid until the validity period specified on the TRP or until the TRP is cancelled by an authorized decision-maker.

What are the conditions of a TRP Holder? 

Like most Canadian permits, TRP holders must leave Canada before the expiry of the permit or apply for a new TRP if they wish to maintain their temporary residence in Canada. Unless otherwise issued a work or study permit, TRP holders cannot work or study. 

If your TRP is cancelled, you will be required to leave Canada immediately, or you may be deported from Canada. Before a TRP is cancelled, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the decision to cancel your permit and an opportunity to respond and overcome the concerns.

Do you need assistance applying for your TRP?

Applying for a TRP can be difficult based on the assessment and criteria necessary to receive approval. Application procedures vary depending on the country of application, and the issuance of the permit is considered on a case by case basis. 

Hiring a licensed immigration practitioner to support your application will often yield better results. Our firm has successfully helped TRP applicants navigate the complexities of the process, and we know we can help you too!