Providing solutions for inadmissible travelers needing temporary legal entry into Canada.
A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a document issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada that allows individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to Canada to enter or remain in the country temporarily.
A TRP is granted only when the individual’s need to visit Canada outweighs the potential risk of their presence. For example, if a visit is required for business purposes and the individual’s presence will benefit Canada or its residents, a TRP may be issued for that specific trip.
If you are inadmissible but have a valid and reasonable reason to visit Canada, you may apply for a TRP. To qualify, you must demonstrate that your reason for entering or staying in Canada outweighs any risks to Canadian society’s health or safety, as determined by an immigration or border services officer.
You must provide strong evidence showing that your visit is necessary, even if the reason for inadmissibility appears minor.
A Temporary Resident Permit is not the same as:
A work permit
A study permit
A temporary resident visa
Unless the document clearly states “Temporary Resident Permit,” you are not considered a TRP holder.
TRPs are issued only in exceptional circumstances and at the discretion of the processing officer. A TRP can be revoked at any time.
The permit allows temporary entry into Canada only if an officer is satisfied that your circumstances justify admission. When you cannot enter Canada through other immigration programs, a TRP may be considered.
For individuals inside or outside Canada, a TRP should generally be treated as a last option. Before applying, you should explore all other available immigration options, as approval rates are not guaranteed. TRPs are granted only in specific situations.
If your eTA application was refused, and you are from a country that requires one, you may still be considered for a TRP depending on:
The nature of your inadmissibility
The surrounding circumstances
The purpose of your travel
Application procedures may vary depending on the visa office responsible for your country or region. You should check with the appropriate visa office for detailed instructions.
If you are inadmissible due to being charged with or convicted of a criminal offence, you may still apply for a TRP to enter Canada temporarily.
You must demonstrate to the officer that:
You are unlikely to commit further offences
The risk to Canada is minimal
Based on the evidence provided, the officer will decide whether to issue the TRP.
If approved, a TRP is typically issued for the period necessary for your visit. In some cases, a TRP may be granted for up to three years.
In most cases, a TRP is valid for single entry only. Once you leave Canada, you must submit a new TRP application to re-enter. However, in certain situations, a multi-entry TRP may be granted.
A TRP cannot be used after its validity period expires. It may also be cancelled by authorized authorities at any time.
If your TRP was issued inside Canada, you must leave Canada before it expires or apply for an extension.
If your TRP is cancelled, you are legally required to leave Canada immediately. You will receive a letter explaining the reasons for cancellation and may be given an opportunity to respond and provide justification to remain.
If you are inadmissible to Canada but have urgent or important reasons to travel, our team can guide you through the Temporary Resident Permit process and help you prepare a strong application.
