Understanding Canadian immigration admissibility and enforcement

Some people aren’t allowed to enter or remain in Canada (meaning they’re inadmissible), because they don’t meet admissibility requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. There are different reasons we may not let people into Canada, such as medical, criminal or security reasons.

Reasons you may not be able to enter Canada

What you can do if you were found to be inadmissible to Canada

Enter or stay in Canada temporarily with a compelling reason

If you have a compelling reason (including being a victim of human trafficking or family violence), you may be able to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP)

Overcoming criminal convictions

How you may be allowed to come to Canada if you have been convicted of a crime

Authorization to return to Canada (ARC)

What to do if you want to return to Canada after previously receiving a removal order

Appeal your immigration decision

Make an immigration appeal to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada

If you’re convicted of impaired driving

You usually can’t enter Canada if you’ve been convicted of impaired driving. This is because you may be inadmissible for serious criminality.
Find out how to enter Canada temporarily or overcome your inadmissibility.

What happens when you break immigration rules

Breaking the rules as an immigrant can cause you to lose your status and be removed from Canada.

Consequences of unauthorized work

It’s illegal to work in Canada without proper authorization. Understand the conditions of your work permit.

Revoking Canadian citizenship

Reasons why your citizenship can be taken away

Consequences of fraud

Submitting false documents, lying on an application or cheating on a citizenship test has serious consequences.

How immigration laws are enforced in Canada

Different departments and agencies are responsible for carrying out and enforcing immigration laws in Canada.

Enforcing immigration laws in Canada

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) may arrest, detain, monitor and remove foreign nationals who are not allowed to remain in Canada.

Immigration detention reviews and admissibility hearings

How the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) conducts hearings and detention reviews

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2026-05-13