If you’ve been convicted of a felony in the United States, you may be criminally inadmissible to Canada, even if your conviction happened years ago. That means you could be denied entry at the border, whether you’re visiting for business, family, or work-related reasons. Though, In many cases it is possible to request a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), a legal waiver that can allow you to enter Canada despite your inadmissibility.
What Is a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)?
A TRP is a discretionary permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). It allows someone who is otherwise inadmissible to enter Canada for a limited period when their reason for entering is justified. This includes people with felony convictions, depending on the nature of the offense and how much time has passed.
Can Felons Qualify for a TRP?
Yes, felons can apply for a TRP, but approval is not guaranteed. The decision rests with the Canadian immigration officer reviewing your case. They will consider:
- The nature and severity of the felony
- How much time has passed since the conviction and sentence
- Whether you’ve completed all probation or parole
- Your reason for entering Canada
- Evidence of your rehabilitation and good character
- Whether there’s any ongoing risk to public safety
Offenses involving violence, drugs, or multiple convictions may be subject to higher scrutiny, but they don’t automatically disqualify you.
How Long Is a TRP Valid?
A TRP may be granted for as little as one day or for up to three years, depending on your reason for entry. It can be either single-entry or multiple-entry. For example:
- A business traveler may receive a short-term, single-entry permit.
- A person with ongoing employment or family needs may qualify for a longer, multiple-entry TRP.
What Documents Do You Need?
A strong TRP application usually includes:
- U.S. court records and sentencing documents
- Police clearance certificates
- A personal statement explaining your offense, rehabilitation, and why you need to enter Canada
- Supporting letters from employers, family, or community leaders
- Evidence of your purpose for travel (e.g., work letter, event invitation, medical appointment)
Why Work With a Dual-Licensed Attorney?
A dual-licensed attorney is someone who is licensed in both the U.S. and Canada. This unique qualification allows for accurate assessment of how your U.S. conviction is treated under Canadian immigration law and the preparation of the strongest possible application.
What If It’s Been More Than 5 Years?
If at least five years have passed since you completed your full sentence, you may be eligible for Criminal Rehabilitation, a permanent solution that removes your inadmissibility. If eligible for both, applying for both a TRP and Criminal Rehabilitation together can give you both short- and long-term options.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Felony Block Your Canada Entry
A felony conviction doesn’t automatically mean you can never enter Canada. With a well-prepared TRP application and strong supporting documents, many individuals with criminal records have successfully received permission to enter, even for work or repeat travel. If you have a felony and need to enter Canada, whether for business, family, or employment, contact our office. Attorney Christine Jurusik, licensed in both the U.S. and Canada, can evaluate your case and help you pursue a Temporary Resident Permit or Criminal Rehabilitation.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
Sources
- IRCC – Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
- IRCC – Guide to Criminal Rehabilitation
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
- IRCC – Deemed Rehabilitation Eligibility
We Can Help!
If you have questions regarding Canadian inadmissibility, we invite you to contact our team at Richards and Jurusik for detailed guidance and assistance. We aim to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to make your immigration process smoother and less stressful. The immigration lawyers at Richards and Jurusik have decades of experience helping people to work and live in the United States. Please read some of our hundreds of 5-star client reviews! Contact us today to assess your legal situation.
CHRISTINE JURUSIK is a Partner at Richards and Jurusik and Focuses her practice solely on U.S. Immigration law, with a specialized focus on advising families and individuals on the family-based immigration process and on obtaining U.S. Citizenship. She also handles Canadian Rehabilitation and DUI inadmissibility matters for U.S. Citizens seeking to overcome inadmissibility to Canada. (Full Bio)
