Canada: Temporary Resident Permit Exemptions Policy

Key Points  

  • Canada introduced measures to reduce temporary residence permit and visa processing timelines and streamline eligibility requirements 

Overview  

The government of Canada introduced measures to reduce temporary residence permit and visa processing timelines and streamline eligibility requirements.  

As a result, the government will grant temporary resident visa exemptions to foreign nationals who meet the following conditions: 

  • The foreign national: 
    • Submitted an application from outside Canada for a temporary resident visa under section 179 of the Regulations as a member of the visitor class on or before 16 January 2023; 
    • Was 18 years of age or older on 16 January 2023; 
    • In the four years preceding the date the application was received, the applicant did not hold a temporary resident visa, study permit, work permit or permanent resident visa application refused if they were not subsequently approved for an application for a temporary resident visa, work permit or study permit; 
    • Did not submit the application under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel initiative or other emergency measures for Ukrainian nationals;  
    • Did not request that the visa be granted as a super visa under the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa pathways.  
  • The foreign national:
    • Holds a temporary resident visa that was issued following facilitation under (1); and 
    • Seeks to enter Canada as a visitor for the first time following the issuance of the temporary resident visa described in (i). 

For additional information on these temporary measures, check here.  

What are the Changes?  

The Canadian government introduced temporary measures aimed at accelerating the processing of certain temporary resident visa types.  

Looking Ahead  

This public policy expires on 31 December 2023, but it can be revoked at any time without prior notice. Continue to check the government of Canada’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information. 


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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.