Maple News reports that individuals with a criminal history may face significant barriers when trying to enter Canada—whether for work, study, family visits, or tourism. In such cases, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) can offer a short-term solution.
A TRP is designed for individuals who are deemed criminally inadmissible to Canada but have a compelling reason to enter the country. This may include employment matters, educational commitments, emergencies, or family-related obligations. In contrast, travel purely for tourism is rarely considered a strong enough rationale for TRP approval.
Criminal charges or convictions—even relatively minor ones such as driving under the influence (DUI), theft, or assault—can render a person inadmissible to Canada. A TRP offers an exception to this rule for a limited period, allowing the individual to legally enter the country despite their past offense.
To apply, applicants must explain their criminal history and justify why their presence in Canada is necessary and poses no threat to public safety. Supporting documents typically include official court records, a recent background check, and documentation explaining the reason for the visit. The Canadian government charges a non-refundable processing fee of $200 CAD for each TRP application.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents can apply either at a Canadian consulate or directly at a Canadian Port of Entry (POE) such as an airport, land border, or sea port. In contrast, non-U.S. nationals are required to apply at a consulate. While applying at a POE offers the benefit of instant processing, it comes with uncertainty, as border officers make on-the-spot decisions based on the applicant’s risk versus need to enter.
Consular applications typically take between three to six months to process but are often the more dependable route. They are reviewed by seasoned immigration officers, and applicants will receive a decision before attempting travel—removing the uncertainty at the border.
While legal representation is not mandatory for either a TRP or criminal rehabilitation application, many applicants benefit from the assistance of an immigration lawyer. These professionals can help craft a clear and persuasive application, reducing the risk of miscommunication or missing documentation that can lead to rejection.
If it’s been fewer than five years since you completed your sentence, and you need to enter Canada promptly, a TRP may be your best option. As Maple News explains, careful preparation and understanding of the process can increase your chances of receiving permission to cross the border—legally and without incident.