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Canada Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): How to Apply
What is a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)?
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) allows individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to Canada due to health or criminality reasons to enter or stay in the country under compelling circumstances. This permit grants legal entry for a specific period and can be applied for at any time. Unlike criminal rehabilitation, a TRP is not subject to a waiting period after completing a sentence, meaning individuals may be granted a permit even while serving part of their sentence.
Key Facts About TRPs:
- Issued for up to three years.
- Can be extended from inside Canada.
- Requires justification for entry.
Do I Need a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)?
Canada has strict entry rules for individuals with a criminal record. If you have a conviction, such as a DUI, theft, or assault, you may be deemed inadmissible at the border. Canadian and U.S. immigration authorities share criminal history data, making it crucial to resolve any inadmissibility concerns before traveling.
A TRP may be necessary if:
- You were previously denied entry into Canada.
- You are criminally inadmissible due to a past offense.
- You are ineligible for criminal rehabilitation but need to travel to Canada for an important reason (e.g., work, medical emergencies, family visits).
Important: Travelers seeking entry for tourism with a TRP are often denied unless they can strongly justify their need to visit Canada.
Can I Apply for a TRP with a DUI?
A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is considered a serious criminal offense in Canada, with a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison since the implementation of the Cannabis Act (2018). This means that even a minor DUI offense in the U.S. can make someone criminally inadmissible.
How Does a TRP Help with a DUI?
A Temporary Resident Permit allows U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a DUI to enter Canada for a specific purpose. The duration of the permit depends on the reason for travel and how frequently the applicant needs to visit.
A TRP can be useful for:
- Business travelers attending meetings, training, or work assignments.
- Medical emergencies requiring treatment in Canada.
- Family obligations such as weddings or funerals.
- Tourism, though approval is difficult without strong justification.
Why Does Canada Deny Travelers with a DUI?
Canada considers DUI offenses serious due to concerns about public safety. A DUI conviction from the U.S. is evaluated based on Canadian law, which classifies it as a serious crime. Even minor offenses can lead to refusal at the border.
Common Reasons for Inadmissibility to Canada
Foreign nationals may be denied entry due to:
- Criminal history (DUI, assault, theft, etc.).
- Medical inadmissibility (contagious diseases or lack of medical insurance).
- Security concerns (past espionage, terrorism links, etc.).
- Misrepresentation (false claims or fraudulent documents).
- Lack of financial support for the stay in Canada.
Who Needs a Temporary Resident Permit?
- A person convicted of a crime outside Canada is equivalent to an indictable offense punishable by up to 10 years in Canada.
- Someone convicted of a hybrid offense punishable by up to 10 years in Canada.
- A person convicted of two or more summary offenses equivalent to Canadian law.
- Tip: If you have a criminal record and plan to immigrate to Canada permanently, consider criminal rehabilitation instead of a TRP for a long-term solution.
How to Apply for a Canadian Temporary Resident Permit
Applying for a TRP requires thorough documentation and a strong case justifying entry into Canada.
Where to Submit a TRP Application
If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you can apply at:
A Canadian consulate in the U.S.A port of entry (land, airport, or sea crossing).
Applying at a Canadian Consulate
- Processing time: 3-6 months.
- The best option for a strong application.
- Reviewed by an experienced immigration officer.
Advantage: Higher chance of approval due to a detailed review process.
Applying at a Port of Entry
Processed immediately at an airport, land crossing, or seaport.Risky, or as approval is at the discretion of the border officer.
If denied, you will be refused entry until a consulate approves your application.
Advantage: Fast processing.
Disadvantage: No guarantee of approval.
TRP Application Fees
CAD 200 per application.Tip: If you need repeated entry into Canada for work, a TRP for up to three years is ideal.
Final Thoughts
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a valuable solution for individuals facing criminal inadmissibility to Canada. Whether you need entry for work, family, or medical emergencies, applying through a Canadian consulate is the best approach. If you require urgent entry, a port of entry application may work, but it's risky.
For long-term solutions, explore criminal rehabilitation options to remove inadmissibility permanently.
Next Steps:
- Check if you qualify for a TRP with a free assessment.
- Gather all necessary documents to strengthen your case.
- Apply at a Canadian consulate for the best chance of approval.
By following the correct procedures and ensuring your application is well-prepared, you can successfully enter Canada even with past legal issues.
Complete our FREE assessment to find out if you are eligible for Canadian immigration!