If you are criminally inadmissible to Canada due to a DUI, criminal conviction, or other issue, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) may allow you to enter. While most TRP applications are submitted at a Canadian consulate in advance, it is also possible to apply at the border in urgent situations. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a TRP?
A Temporary Resident Permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows someone who is otherwise inadmissible to enter Canada for a specific reason and duration. TRPs can be issued for up to three years but are typically issued for the length of the visit.
Who Can Apply at the Border?
Applying for a TRP at the border is typically reserved for people who:
- Have an urgent need to enter Canada (e.g., family emergency, business travel)
- Do not pose a significant risk to Canadian society
- Are otherwise eligible for temporary entry with supporting documentation
Where to Apply
You can apply for a TRP at a Canadian land border crossing or at an airport with Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers. TRPs are issued at the discretion of the officer, and approval is not guaranteed.
How to Prepare for a Border TRP Application
Arrive prepared with a complete package. Include:
- A detailed letter of explanation outlining the reason for your visit and why you’re inadmissible
- Police certificates and court records from the U.S. or other relevant countries
- Proof of urgency such as an invitation letter, funeral notice, or business itinerary
- Supporting documents showing ties to your home country and intent to return
- Valid ID such as a passport or permanent resident card
- Payment for the TRP fee, currently approximately CAD $200 (subject to change)
What Happens at the Border?
When you arrive at the border, explain your situation and inform the officer that you are applying for a TRP. The CBSA officer will assess your risk, review your documents, and determine if your need to enter Canada outweighs the inadmissibility concern.
Tips for Success
- Be respectful and honest with the border officer
- Organize your documents for easy review
- Demonstrate that your visit is legitimate, time-bound, and important
Final Thoughts
Applying for a TRP at the Canadian border is possible in urgent cases, but it’s not without risk. Approval is discretionary, and you may be denied entry. If your travel is not urgent, it’s generally a better option to apply through a Canadian consulate in advance. It’s highly recommended to consult with an immigration attorney who is licensed to practice law in both the U.S. and Canada. This dual licensure ensures that your legal counsel fully understands the implications of your criminal record and can properly represent your interests on both sides of the border.
We can help you with this. Our team is experienced in cross-border immigration matters and can guide you through the TRP application process effectively and efficiently. For official guidance, visit the IRCC’s TRP page and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
We Can Help!
If you have questions regarding the Temporary Resident Permit, 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!
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)
