Some people are denied entry to Canada because of a criminal record. In the past, people have been denied entry to Canada for criminal offenses they never thought would catch up with them – such as an arrest for marijuana possession decades ago or a DUI conviction. Rest assured, a criminal record of any kind can result in your being denied entry to Canada.
Admission to Canada with a criminal record
Even if you have a criminal record and have been denied entry to Canada, you can apply for a Temporary Resident Permit, also called a visitor’s visa. An application for a Temporary Resident Permit can often be made at the Canadian border if you are a US citizen, otherwise they can be applied for at your local Canadian Embassy or consulate.
Other ways to enter Canada with a criminal record
Aside from applying for a Temporary Resident Permit to enter Canada, there are other options for people with criminal records. For example, one could apply for a criminal pardon or criminal rehabilitation, which would eliminate your criminal inadmissibility.
Which option is best for me?
How you can enter Canada with a criminal record depends on your individual situation, your desired timeframe when visiting Canada as well as your original criminal offence. These factors combined need to be considered when determining which option is best for you.
For more information on applying for a Temporary Resident Permit or how to enter Canada with a criminal record, contact us at the form on the right.
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.
