Maple News reports that thousands of newly approved permanent residents remain barred from entering Canada, despite having successfully navigated the country’s rigorous immigration process. These individuals, many of whom were granted Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) documents after March 18, 2020, have passed the required medical, security, and background checks. Yet, nearly a year later, they are still waiting for permission to take the final step—physically entering the country and beginning their new lives in Canada.
Under Canada’s ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions, only individuals with specific exemptions are allowed to enter. These include Canadian citizens’ immediate and extended family members, certain international students studying at designated institutions, and foreign workers with valid permits. However, those with post-March 18, 2020, COPRs are excluded unless they qualify for one of those exemptions or are currently living in the U.S.
The policy has left many new immigrants stranded in limbo, despite being mere steps away from officially settling in Canada. Abdul Akarigidi, a permanent resident applicant from Nigeria, and his family were turned away at the airport in early 2021—even after completing a two-year application process. “We are just sitting at home with no clear plan in sight,” he told Maple News. “We all have equal roles to play in the economic growth of Canada, and it’s rather unfair to be treated this way.”
Others echo similar frustrations. Deepa Joy from India, another approved but blocked applicant, questions the consistency of the policy. “If they can open doors to students and temporary workers, why not us?” she asked. “Why did they issue COPRs at all if they planned to bar us from entering?”
Applicants argue that Canada should reconsider travel rules for this group, particularly as many have already left jobs, sold homes, and made logistical and financial arrangements based on their expected move. They feel overlooked in a system supposedly built on fairness and integration.
Initially, Canada’s border closure was set to expire in June 2020, but it has since been rolled over month-to-month as the pandemic evolved. While Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made several exemptions over time—such as for international students with COVID-19 readiness plans and extended family members—no such relief has yet been granted for post-March 18 COPR holders.
As global vaccination rates rise and Canada refines its public health strategy, many are hoping for clearer communication and an updated travel policy that reflects the realities of those stuck in immigration limbo. Meanwhile, approved permanent residents continue to wait, their future in Canada paused indefinitely.
Maple News will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as the situation evolves.