Congratulations – your Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) has been approved by a Canadian consulate. That’s a major step toward resolving your inadmissibility issue. But approval isn’t the final step – you still need to cross the Canadian border properly. Here’s what you need to know and prepare for your entry.
What Is a TRP Approval from the Consulate?
A TRP issued by a Canadian consulate means you’ve been granted permission to enter Canada for a specific purpose and timeframe, despite being inadmissible (e.g., due to a past DUI or criminal record). This is often done through a consulate or embassy when there is no urgent need to apply at the border.
Next Step: Presenting Your TRP at the Border
Once your TRP is approved, you must bring the letter acknowledging your approval to a Canadian port of entry – either a land crossing or international airport. Where the official TRP will be issued here’s what to expect:
- Present your TRP Approval Letter: This letter confirms the consulate’s decision and instructs CBSA to issue the permit.
- CBSA will issue the actual TRP: The officer at the border has final discretion to issue the document – although denial after consular approval is rare, it’s technically possible.
- Expect identity verification and document review: The officer will review your passport, TRP letter, and purpose of travel.
What to Bring to the Border
Arrive fully prepared with the following:
- A valid passport
- Your TRP approval letter from the consulate
- Proof of the reason for your visit (e.g., business meeting, family event, medical appointment)
- Travel itinerary and return tickets if applicable
How the Border Process Works
- You arrive at a designated port of entry
- Tell the CBSA officer you’ve been approved for a TRP and present your letters
- The officer may ask questions or refer you directly to secondary inspection
- If everything is in order, they will issue your Temporary Resident Permit in secondary inspection
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Be honest and courteous when answering officer questions
- Have all documents organized and ready to present
- Arrive early and allow extra time for processing
Final Advice
While your TRP approval is a big win, it’s essential to handle the final step at the border with care. Border officers have the final say on your entry into Canada. If your documents are in order and your behavior is respectful, you should receive your TRP without issue. We strongly recommend working with an immigration attorney who is licensed in both the U.S. and Canada to ensure that all documents are accurate and your border crossing goes smoothly. We can help you prepare for your entry and answer any last-minute questions.
For more details, visit the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and IRCC’s official TRP page.
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)
