Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Canada

At IPJ Immigration Solutions, our experienced, woman-led team understands the challenges of inadmissibility. With over 20 years of experience, we provide personalized support to help you and your family successfully obtain a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) for Canada and start your new chapter with confidence.

What is a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)?

A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is a special permission granted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows individuals who are inadmissible to enter Canada temporarily.

People usually need a TRP if they have a criminal record (such as for DUI, assault, theft, drug possession, or fraud) or medical inadmissibility (like having a contagious disease or a condition that could put a strain on Canada’s healthcare system).

To apply, you can either visit a Canadian consulate or apply at the border. An immigration officer will review your case, balancing the reasons for your visit against any risks you might pose to Canadian society. If your reasons outweigh the risk, you’ll be approved. If not, you’ll be denied entry.

Keep in mind, a TRP is temporary and does not grant permanent forgiveness for any inadmissibility issues.

Am I Inadmissible to Canada?

Yes, you may be inadmissible if you have a criminal record, pending charges, or certain medical conditions. Even a single DUI from 20 years ago can get you denied at the border.

What causes criminal inadmissibility?

DUI/DWI (including DWAI, OWI, OUI, Wet Reckless)
Assault or domestic violence
Theft or fraud
Drug possession or trafficking
Reckless driving

Other reasons for inadmissibility:

Pending criminal charges (Canada does not assume innocence at the border)
Medical conditions (contagious diseases or conditions straining healthcare)
Your full record is visible (FBI and RCMP share data, including expunged records)

Two Ways to Apply for a Temporary Resident Permit

Advance Application (Recommended)

Submit application to Canadian visa office abroad before traveling. Processing: 3 to 6 months. Lower rejection risk because experienced officers review cases thoroughly. Decision received before departure, allowing trip planning with confidence. Best for scheduled travel.

Port of Entry Application

Apply directly at Canadian border (airport or land crossing) upon arrival. Officer makes immediate decision. Higher rejection risk. If denied, immediate return to origin country and trip cancellation. Only recommended for urgent, documented emergencies where advance application impossible.

Advance applications through visa offices provide better success rates and eliminate travel uncertainty.

Complete TRP Application Checklist

Required for every application:

Application form IMM 1444
Government processing fee receipt ($200 CAD, non-refundable)
Two passport-sized photos
Valid passport or copy
Court documents for all offenses (see below)
FBI criminal history report (see below)
Three character reference letters
Written statement explaining your offense and rehabilitation
Written statement explaining your purpose for visiting Canada
Supporting documents proving your travel reason
Use of Representative form (if hiring a lawyer or consultant)

How to Get Your Court Documents:

Request certified court documents showing charges, convictions, and sentencing from relevant courts or authorities where convicted.

Police Certificates

Obtain police certificates from all countries where you lived 6+ months since age 18. Requirements and processing times vary by country. Cost ranges from free to $100 per country.

TRP Processing Times & Costs

Government Fees:

TRP application: $200 CAD (non-refundable, even if denied)
Police certificates: Free to $100 per country
Court/criminal records: Varies by jurisdiction
Biometrics: $85 CAD

Processing Times:

Advance application (visa office): 3-6 months
Port of entry: Immediate (same day decision, higher denial risk)
Document gathering: 2-4 weeks

What Makes a Strong TRP Application?

01. Valid Travel Reason

Business meetings, family emergencies, medical treatment, or mandatory work obligations typically approved. Include supporting documents like business invitations, medical appointment confirmations, or death certificates proving genuine need.

02. Rehabilitation Evidence

Show positive changes since conviction. Include completion certificates from counseling programs, attendance records for rehabilitation programs, employment letters showing stable work history, community service records, and character reference letters from employers, clergy, or community leaders.

03. Low Reoffending Risk

Detailed statement explaining circumstances of offense, lessons learned, and life changes since conviction. Officers must believe there is a minimal chance of committing crimes in Canada.

04. Correct Legal Equivalency

Foreign offenses must match Canadian Criminal Code offenses. DUI equals impaired driving in Canada (maximum 10 years). Theft over $5,000 equals serious criminality. Incorrect equivalency causes automatic denial. Professional legal analysis recommended.

Need Other Temporary Residence Help?

A TRP is for individuals who are inadmissible to Canada. If you don’t have a criminal record or medical inadmissibility, you might need:

Visitor Visa (TRV):

For tourism, family visits, or business meetings in Canada for up to 6 months. We assist with proof of funds and invitation letters.

Super Visa

Allows parents and grandparents to visit for up to 5 years per entry. Requires medical insurance and your child's income verification.

Study Permit

For international students to study full-time and work part-time in Canada. We help with the Statement of Purpose and fund requirements.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP

Allows recent graduates to work in Canada for up to 3 years, a pathway to permanent residence through Canadian work experience.

Work Permit

LMIA-based or exempt work permits for job offers. Spousal Open Work Permits allow spouses of students or workers to work anywhere.

Visitor Record Extension

Extend your visitor status for another 6 months. Apply 30 days before expiry to maintain legal status in Canada.

Not sure which service you need? That's completely normal, immigration pathways can be confusing. Book a consultation and we'll help you understand your options clearly.

Why Choose IPJ Immigration for Temporary Resident Permit?

Personalized Solutions

Every case is different. Whether you're facing criminal inadmissibility, medical issues, or financial concerns, we offer customized advice and solutions. Our goal is to guide you through your specific challenges and ensure the best possible outcome.

TRP Application Help

Our team is with you at every step of the Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) application process. From preparing documents to submitting your application, we ensure that everything is handled with precision to minimize the risk of delays or refusals.

Expert Guidance

Overcoming inadmissibility can be complex, especially if it involves criminal records, medical conditions, or misrepresentation. We provide expert guidance to help you understand your options and navigate the legal hurdles that may stand in your way.

Clear Communication

We prioritize open communication throughout your TRP application process. You’ll always be fully informed about what’s required, the timelines involved, and the progress of your application. Our transparent approach ensures you know exactly what to expect.

Proven Success

With years of experience, our team has a high success rate in securing TRPs for our clients. We pride ourselves on our diligent approach, ensuring that your application is processed efficiently and accurately, giving you the best chance of overcoming inadmissibility.

Quick Processing

Time is of the essence when it comes to TRP applications. We strive to expedite the process by ensuring all necessary documentation is in order and submitted correctly the first time, avoiding unnecessary delays and helping you get your permit as quickly as possible.

Hear from our previous clients

Every application represents someone’s hopes, dreams, and future. Here are just a few of the people we’ve been honored to help.

Meet Our Experienced Team

A women-owned, family-run practice where your case receives personal attention from experienced professionals who genuinely care.

Immigration law is our profession, but helping people navigate life-changing journeys is our passion. We’re a small, dedicated team, which means you’re not just another file number. We remember your story, we follow your progress, and we celebrate your success as if it were our own.

Irena Bartoszewicz Szajna

Senior Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)

Paulina Harirbafan

Immigration Lawyer / Notary Public

Justyna Szajna

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)

Frequently Asked Questions

These are some of the concerns clients bring to us. If you’re feeling any of these worries, we can help.

Can I enter Canada with a DUI?

Yes, but you need a Temporary Resident Permit. The FBI and RCMP share databases, so Canada sees your DUI immediately. You can't enter without special permission.

How long does a TRP last?

Single-entry TRPs last days to weeks. Multi-entry TRPs can last up to 3 years, but you need to prove ongoing reasons for repeated travel.

What if my criminal record was expunged or sealed?

Canada still sees expunged records in the FBI database. You may need a Legal Opinion Letter from an immigration lawyer. The lawyer analyzes Canadian law and explains why your expunged conviction means you're now admissible. This can sometimes replace a TRP application.

What happens if my TRP expires while I'm in Canada?

You must leave before your TRP expires. Overstaying leads to a deportation order and a ban from entering Canada. It also damages all future immigration applications, work permits, study permits, or permanent residence.

Can I apply for TRP and Criminal Rehabilitation at the same time?

Yes. This is the smartest strategy. Use the TRP for immediate access while waiting 12+ months for permanent Rehabilitation approval. Once Rehabilitation is granted, you never need another TRP.

Still have questions? That's what consultations are for. Book a consultation and get clear, honest answers about your specific situation.

Your Immigration Journey Starts with a Conversation

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Book a consultation for clear, compassionate guidance tailored to your situation.

Whether you’re just starting to explore your options, facing a complex situation, or recovering from a refusal, we’re here to listen, understand, and guide you with the care your future deserves.

Why Book Your Consultation:

We listen first before jumping into legal talk
Honest answers to your situation
Clear explanations in plain language
No pressure, no sales tactics just helpful guidance
20+ years of experience with complex cases
Women-owned practice bringing sensitivity and care

THIS ISN'T JUST PAPERWORK, IT'S YOUR LIFE, YOUR FAMILY, AND YOUR FUTURE. YOU DESERVE SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS THAT.