Temporary Resident Permit
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a special travel document issued to individuals who are inadmissible to Canada or do not meet all entry requirements but have a valid reason for entering or staying in the country. It provides temporary access to Canada for those who would otherwise be denied entry due to medical, criminal, or other inadmissibility reasons.
The TRP is issued at the discretion of a Canadian immigration officer, who assesses whether the individual's need to enter Canada outweighs any potential risks to Canadian society
Who Needs a Temporary Resident Permit?
- Criminally Inadmissible: For example, due to a past conviction like DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or other offenses.
- Medically Inadmissible: If you have a health condition deemed as a potential public health risk or might create excessive demand on Canada’s healthcare system.
- Non-compliant with Entry Requirements: Missing travel documents or other essential criteria for entry to Canada.
The TRP is typically granted to individuals who:
1. Have compelling reasons for visiting Canada, such as family emergencies, business obligations, or special events.
2. Pose no serious risk to Canadian safety or security.
Key Features of a Temporary Resident Permit
- Temporary Solution: The TRP is a short-term solution and does not guarantee long-term or permanent residency.
- Duration of Stay: TRPs can be issued for a single entry or multiple entries and are valid for a duration of up to three years, depending on the specific circumstances.
- Case-by-Case Assessment: Each TRP application is evaluated individually. Immigration officers consider factors like the applicant's reason for entering, their background, and any risks they may pose.
Can a Temporary Resident Permit Be Extended?
Yes, a TRP can be extended, but the application must be submitted before the permit expires. To extend, applicants need to:
- Provide evidence of why the extension is necessary.
- Demonstrate that they continue to meet the criteria for a TRP.
Differences Between a TRP and a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
TRP (Temporary Resident Permit)
- For individuals who are inadmissible to Canada or do not meet entry requirements.
- Issued for exceptional cases where the need to enter outweighs potential risks.
TRV (Temporary Resident Visa)
- For eligible individuals who meet all standard entry requirements.
- Commonly issued for tourism, business, or family visits.
Temporary Resident Permit for Criminal Inadmissibility
If you have a criminal conviction, such as DUI or theft, you may be inadmissible to Canada. In such cases, you can apply for a TRP if:
- You have a compelling reason to visit Canada.
- You can prove rehabilitation or show that your offense is not a serious threat to Canadian society.
For minor criminal offenses committed more than five years ago, you may also consider applying for criminal rehabilitation, which can permanently resolve your inadmissibility.
Benefits of a Temporary Resident Permit
- Legal Entry: Provides a legal pathway for individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to enter Canada temporarily.
- Flexibility: Allows individuals to visit Canada for specific, time-sensitive reasons.
- Opportunity for Resolution: While not permanent, holding a TRP can pave the way to demonstrate good conduct, potentially helping with future visa or rehabilitation applications.
The Temporary Resident Permit is an essential option for those with inadmissibility issues, allowing them to access Canada legally and responsibly for temporary purposes.