Have you been denied entry to Canada? That may have been an extremely distressing and upsetting situation – it may have even been a huge surprise, and it might have ruined your travel plans if you had planned a vacation or a visit with family in Canada. 
Canada has an obligation to ensure that it only lets people into the country who do not pose a threat to Canada or Canadians, but sometimes people who pose no risk are caught up in the tightened security practices. Most often, a criminal record – no matter how old or minor – can result in a denial of entry to Canada.
Being denied entry to Canada – what are my options?
Someone who is denied entry to Canada can actually overcome this inadmissibility, depending on their situation. The best first step you can take is speaking with a licensed immigration lawyer who is experienced in denial of entry cases and who can assess your case while helping you explore your options.
Your options include applying for criminal rehabilitation or applying for a temporary resident permit.
Criminal rehabilitation is the more lengthy application process, but it can be very worthwhile because it is a permanent solution to your criminal inadmissibility – in other words, it removes it. This option is suitable for applicants whose criminal record is more than five years old.
A temporary resident permit is a much shorter and quicker application, although that doesn’t necessarily mean it is an easy one. In addition, this will only temporarily remove your inadmissibility, but it could be a great option for you if you just have to enter Canada for a short period of time.
We are an award-winning immigration law firm that has been helping people who have been denied entry to Canada for over 15 years! Give us a call for an assessment of your case.
President & CEO
Michael Niren
Mr. Niren is CEO of VisaPlace LLC and the President and Managing Partner of VisaPlace Legal Canada, an immigration law firm based in Toronto, and VisaPlace Legal US a law firm registered in The District of Columbia, USA. Mr. Niren is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Canadian Bar Association’s Citizenship and Immigration Section, American Lawyers Association, and an Associate Member of the American Bar Association.
