Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
Canada’s primary criterion for issuing a travel permit is the applicant's admissibility. If you are inadmissible to Canada, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) may allow you to enter the country temporarily, provided you can establish a credible and significant reason for your visit.
A TRP, formerly known as the "minister’s permit," is issued at the discretion of the visa officer.
Specific Circumstances for Issuing a TRP
- Inadmissibility: If you are inadmissible or barred from entering Canada but can convince the visa officer that you have a valid and justified reason for your travel.
- Non-compliance: If you are already in Canada and do not meet the requirements of any other immigration program, a TRP may be issued to allow you to stay temporarily.
Understanding Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs)
Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs) are issued under specific circumstances, primarily when individuals are deemed inadmissible to Canada:
- Exceptional Circumstances: TRPs are granted in exceptional cases where individuals can demonstrate a compelling and justified reason for their visit, akin to humanitarian and compassionate applications.
- Duration: Typically issued for a limited period, TRPs may extend up to three years in certain cases, depending on the circumstances.
- Entry Conditions: TRPs usually permit single entry and become invalid upon departure from Canada. Re-entry necessitates a new TRP application if inadmissibility persists.
- Multiple Entry TRP: In select cases, an officer may approve a multiple entry TRP, valid until its specified period or cancelled by an authorized decision-maker.
- Permit Categories: If a TRP remains valid for at least six months, visa officers may consider issuing work or study permits at their discretion.
Key Responsibilities for TRP Holders
- Work or Study: TRP holders cannot engage in work or study activities in Canada unless granted specific permits.
- Exiting Canada: Similar to other Canadian permits, TRP holders must exit Canada before their permit expires or apply for renewal to maintain their temporary status.
- Cancelled TRP: If your TRP is revoked, immediate departure from Canada is mandatory to avoid deportation.
Before a TRP is cancelled, recipients receive a detailed explanation outlining reasons for the decision and an opportunity to respond to address raised concerns.