Picture yourself standing at a crossroads after receiving a removal order from Canada. Your heart sinks as you read about the permanent ban from re-entering the country. 

Here’s the thing: Canada’s removal system includes three different orders, each with its own implications. A Departure Order gives you 30 days to leave, an Exclusion Order blocks your return for one to five years, and the most serious one – a Deportation Order – comes with permanent re-entry restrictions. Sounds scary, right? But don’t worry – there’s hope even with a permanent ban through something called an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC).

Let me walk you through how you can get your Authorization to Canada approved on your first try. This isn’t just about filling out forms – it’s about understanding what immigration officers really look for and presenting your case in the most compelling way possible. From figuring out if you’re eligible to building an application that shows your genuine intentions.

First things first: you need to know exactly what type of removal order you’re dealing with. The removal orders issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) three distinct types of removal orders.

Types of removal orders

Think of these orders like a traffic light system – from yellow to deep red. Let me break them down for you:

Now, this part is crucial – if you don’t leave within that 30-day window on a departure order, it automatically becomes a deportation order. That’s like your yellow light suddenly turning deep red, and trust me, it completely changes your options for coming back.

Let’s talk about when you actually need an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC). Through my own experience, I discovered it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation:

• Got a departure order? Good news – no Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) needed if you left within 30 days and have your Certificate of Departure

• Dealing with an exclusion order? You’re in luck – skip the Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) if you’ve waited out your ban period of 12 months and have the right paperwork. If you want to come back before the 12 month period, then we do need to apply for Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC).

• Facing a deportation order? This one’s non-negotiable – you’ll need an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC), no matter how much time has passed.

Something you should know – if CBSA paid for your removal, you’ll need to pay them back. That’s CAD$1,252.63 for trips to the US or Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, or CAD$ 2,506.66 for anywhere else.

Legal framework

The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act sets the rules for coming back to Canada. CBSA’s job? Getting inadmissible folks out as quickly as possible. During my application, I learned you might be considered inadmissible for:

• Security concerns

• Criminal history

• Misrepresentation

• Non-compliance with immigration laws

• Financial inability to support oneself

One more thing you need to know – even with that Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) approval in your pocket, there’s no guarantee you’ll get in. The border services officer still has the final say when you show up. That’s why you’ll want every single document ready and organized when you reach the border.

Evaluating your situation for Authorization to Return to Canada

Here’s the thing: immigration officers want to see real change since your removal order. They’ll look at:

• What got you removed in the first place

• Whether you might repeat those same actions

• How much time has passed since the order

• Your honest reasons for wanting to return

Remember, showing positive changes in your life isn’t just about telling – it’s about proving. You’ll need solid evidence that whatever led to your removal is firmly in the past.

Processing Times for Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC)

The clock matters more than you might think. Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) application cane take approximately four to 6-8 months. That’s why you’ll want to:

• Get started way before your planned travel date

• Give yourself wiggle room for gathering documents

• Factor in translation time if needed

• Plan for possible requests for more information

Resource requirements

Don’t worry – I’ll break down exactly what this journey might cost you:

Picture yourself getting ready for a big presentation – you’ll need every document perfectly prepared:

• Your story in English or French (make it detailed!)

• Proof you’ve paid all fees

• Supporting documents with proper translations

• Valid passport or travel documents

One more thing – messy or incomplete applications get sent right back without processing. That’s why you need to make sure every page is crystal clear and organized. Trust me, this attention to detail will pay a huge role in getting your application approved on the first try.

Building a Strong Authorization to Return to Canada Case

Ready to turn your Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) application from good to great? Let me show you exactly how you can convince the immigration officer on your eligibility and genuine intentions.

Core application components

Think of your Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) application like building a house – you need a solid foundation. Here’s what absolutely must be there:

• Your story in English or French (why should Canada let you return?)
• Proof you’ve paid all processing fees (they’re pretty strict about this!)
• Supporting documents with certified translations
• Supporting evidence for Authorization to Return Canada (ARC)

Want to know what really can make your application stand out?

Each document must be certified and arranged by date. And remember – anything not in English or French needs proper certified translations.

Presentation strategies

Here’s where you can really shine! 

1) Clear Organization

• A table of contents (like a roadmap for the officer)

• Crystal-clear section labels
• Color-coded tabs for different document types

2)Professional Formatting

• Clean, professional fonts (no fancy stuff!)

• Consistent formatting (makes it easy on the eyes)

• Headers and page numbers that make sense

Messy or incomplete applications get sent back without even being looked at. While nobody can guarantee your Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) approval, a well-organized application speaks volumes about your seriousness.

For the financial part, go above and beyond with your bank statements. Picture an immigration officer flipping through your application – wouldn’t it be great if they could easily track your financial stability over time?

Required official documents for ARC

Here’s what you’ll need at the very minimum:

• Your story (a detailed letter explaining why you want to return to Canada)

• A valid passport or travel document

• Two passport-size photographs taken within six months

• A completed Temporary Visitor Visa application form

You know what worked best for me? I put my completed checklist right on top of everything. Then, I followed IRCC’s order exactly – trust me, they notice these things.

Supporting documentation for ARC Application

Here’s the thing: your supporting evidence can make or break your case. Let me show you how I organized mine:

Addressing Inadmissibility Concerns for ARC Application

Let’s tackle one of the toughest parts of returning to Canada – dealing with inadmissibility. Picture yourself sitting across from an immigration officer who needs to be convinced you deserve a second chance.

Common inadmissibility grounds

First things first: Canada takes inadmissibility seriously. Here’s what might keep you from entering:

Rehabilitation Evidence

Here’s the thing: showing rehabilitation isn’t just about waiting it out. The immigration officer needs to believe you’ve changed. Think of it as building your case with these pieces:

• Police clearance certificates from everywhere you’ve lived

• Court records that tell your whole story

• Proof you’ve completed your sentence

• Employment records showing stability

• Character references from community leaders

Don’t worry if this sounds overwhelming. You’ve got two paths to rehabilitation – waiting five years after completing your sentence for individual rehabilitation, or letting ten years pass for deemed rehabilitation on certain offenses.

Mitigation strategies

Ready to turn things around? Let’s look at your options:

1)Temporary Solutions:

• Temporary Resident Permit for urgent travel needs

2) Permanent Solutions:

• Criminal rehabilitation application

• Record suspension (formerly known as pardon)

• Deemed rehabilitation assessment

Timing matters more than you might think. That five-year waiting period after completing your sentence? It’s non-negotiable for criminal rehabilitation. What really made my case strong was showing:

• A stable lifestyle

• A permanent home

• Steady employment

• Strong character references

Remember, this journey isn’t just about checking boxes. The immigration officer wants to see real change in your life. That means going beyond paperwork to show how I’d grown since your original incident. By showing concrete evidence of positive changes – from your career growth to community involvement – you can prove that you are ready for a second chance.

Application Submission and Processing

Ready to submit your ARC application? This is where all your hard work comes together. Sounds exciting, right? Let me show you how to get everything to IRCC just right.

Submission methods

You’ve got two ways to get your application to IRCC:

Here’s something interesting – your submission method actually depends on whether you’re going for temporary or permanent residence. For my temporary residence application, I needed:

• A filled-out and validated application form

• Supporting documents for my specific permit

• My story in English (that explanation letter!)

• Proof I paid all the fees

Processing stages for ARC

Think of your application like a train moving through different stations. Here’s where it stops along the way:

• First stop: IRCC checks if everything’s there

• Next up: Document verification

• Then comes: Eligibility assessment

• Final destination: Decision time

But watch out – if anything’s missing or hard to read, they’ll send it right back. And sometimes, IRCC might write asking for more information.

Post-Approval Considerations

Got your ARC approval? Fantastic! But hold on – this is just your ticket to the show, not the whole performance. Let me tell you why having an approved ARC doesn’t automatically mean you’ll breeze through Canadian customs.

Additional entry requirements 

Picture yourself at the border – what do you need in your arsenal? Here’s your must-have list:

Think of your Entry Package as your personal story for the border officer. Trust me – this package can turn a potentially stressful border crossing into a smooth experience.

Picture yourself standing at the Canadian border, ARC approval letter in hand. That’s exactly where I ended up after months of preparation, paperwork, and persistence. Looking back at my journey, it feels like climbing a mountain – challenging every step of the way, but absolutely worth it when you reach the summit.

Here’s the thing: getting back to Canada after a removal order isn’t just about filling out forms. It’s about showing real change and earning that second chance. From understanding those tricky removal orders to gathering every single document, from facing my inadmissibility concerns head-on to proving I could support myself financially – each piece had to fit perfectly.

Remember though – even with that precious ARC approval in your pocket, the border officer still has the final say. Think of it like having a golden ticket to a show – you still need to go through security. That’s why I kept everything organized from day one, ready to show I was genuine about following Canada’s rules.

Want to know the biggest lesson I learned? It’s not just about persistence – it’s about being honest with yourself and with immigration authorities. While every case tells its own story, I hope sharing mine helps light the way for your journey back to Canada. Trust me – with the right preparation and a genuine heart, those gates can open again.

Showing Your Reason for Travel to Canada

When applying for an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC), it’s crucial to clearly explain your reason for wanting to return to Canada. Whether it’s for family, work, or another valid purpose, your explanation should be detailed and supported by evidence.

If you’re not from a visa-exempt country, keep in mind that you’ll also need to apply for a visitor visa alongside your ARC application. These two applications are reviewed together, so it’s essential to demonstrate the legitimacy of your travel plans. This might include providing an invitation letter from a family member, details of a job offer, or documentation for an event you’re attending.

Tips for a Successful ARC Application

• Provide a Clear Explanation: Be honest and thorough about why you want to return.

• Demonstrate Rehabilitation: If your deportation was due to criminal activity, show proof of rehabilitation, like completing a program or staying out of trouble.

• Show Strong Ties to Canada: Highlight family, job opportunities, or other connections.

• Follow Instructions: Double-check your application for completeness and accuracy.

To apply for an Authorization to Return to Canada, you will need to follow these steps:

An Authorization to Return to Canada is a necessary document for non-Canadian citizens or permanent residents who have been outside Canada for more than one year and want to return to the country. By following the steps outlined in this landing page, you can ensure that your application for an ARC is complete and submitted correctly. Remember to allow sufficient time for processing and to ensure that all required documents are included with your application. If you have any questions or concerns about the application process, you can contact the Government of Canada for assistance.

It’s important to note that an ARC is not a guarantee of entry into Canada. You must still meet all the requirements for entry into Canada, including passing a health check and meeting any other requirements related to the COVID-19 pandemic. You may also be subject to additional screening or questioning by immigration officials upon arrival in Canada.

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you do not need an ARC to return to Canada. However, if you are planning to leave Canada for an extended period of time, it’s important to consider the potential need for an ARC in the future. By planning ahead and ensuring that you have all the necessary documents and information, you can avoid any potential issues or delays when it comes time to return to Canada.

In conclusion, obtaining an Authorization to Return to Canada is a necessary step for non-Canadian citizens or permanent residents who have been outside the country for more than one year and want to return. By following the steps outlined in this landing page, you can ensure that your application for an ARC is complete and submitted correctly. Remember to allow sufficient time for processing and to ensure that all required documents are included with your application. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the Government of Canada for assistance.

You can launch an appeal if you have been ordered removed or by the Canadian Border Services Agency. The Immigration Appeal Division can stay (postpone) removal orders.

The Immigration Appeal Division will hear your appeal in court. If the appeal is rejected, you can then ask the Federal Court to review the Division’s decision.

Sometimes there is a delay between the time a removal order is issued and the time a person actually leaves Canada. The reason(s) for this can include the following:

Obtaining an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) can be a complex and nuanced process, and there are many factors to consider when applying. In this section, we’ll delve deeper into some of the lesser-known facts and processes involved in obtaining an ARC.

One important thing to keep in mind is that simply applying for an ARC does not guarantee that you will be granted one. The decision to grant an ARC is ultimately up to the Canadian government, and there are several factors that they take into account when making this decision.

One of the key factors that the Canadian government considers when granting an ARC is the reason for your departure from Canada in the first place. If you left Canada due to a criminal conviction, for example, this could be grounds for the government to deny your ARC application. Similarly, if you left Canada without obtaining the necessary documentation or authorization, this could also affect your chances of being granted an ARC.

Another important factor to consider when applying for an ARC is the amount of time that has passed since your departure from Canada. The longer you have been outside of the country, the more difficult it may be to obtain an ARC. In some cases, you may need to provide additional documentation or evidence to support your application, such as proof of ties to Canada or evidence of employment or education.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the process of obtaining an ARC can take time, and it’s important to plan accordingly. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to provide additional documentation or attend an interview with a government official. This can add to the overall processing time for your application, so it’s important to be patient and plan accordingly.

In addition to these factors, it’s also important to work with an experienced immigration lawyer when applying for an ARC. An immigration lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the application process, identify potential issues that could affect your application, and provide guidance and support throughout the process.

You can launch an appeal if you have been ordered removed or by the Canadian Border Services Agency. The Immigration Appeal Division can stay (postpone) removal orders.

The Immigration Appeal Division will hear your appeal in court. If the appeal is rejected, you can then ask the Federal Court to review the Division’s decision.

Sometimes there is a delay between the time a removal order is issued and the time a person actually leaves Canada. The reason(s) for this can include the following:

Obtaining an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially given the current travel restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re a Canadian Permanent Resident or a foreign national with valid status in Canada, and you’re currently outside of the country, you’ll need to obtain an ARC before you can return to Canada.

At Akrami and Associates, we specialize in helping clients navigate the immigration process, including obtaining an ARC. With years of experience and a deep understanding of Canada’s immigration laws and policies, we can provide you with the guidance and support you need to secure your return to Canada with confidence.

How We Can Help with Your ARC Application

• Personalized Consultation
  We’ll assess your unique situation, review your removal order, and determine the best course of action to move forward with your Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) application.

• Document Preparation
  Our team will help you gather and organize all the necessary documents, such as your removal order, valid travel documents, and supporting evidence for your reason to return.

• Crafting a Strong Submission
  We’ll help you prepare a compelling application that clearly outlines your reasons for returning to Canada. Whether it’s for family reunification, work, or other valid reasons, we ensure your case is presented in the best light.
• Visitor Visa Support (if applicable)
  If you’re from a non-visa-exempt country, we’ll assist in submitting your visitor visa application alongside your ARC, ensuring both are properly coordinated.

Throughout the entire process, we’ll be there to provide you with the guidance and support you need to secure your return to Canada with confidence. We understand that the current travel restrictions and immigration policies can be confusing and overwhelming, but we’re here to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

In addition to our expertise and experience in the immigration field, there are a number of other reasons why Akrami and Associates is the right choice for your ARC needs:

If you’re currently outside of Canada and need to obtain an Authorization to Return to Canada, don’t hesitate to reach out to Akrami and Associates for assistance. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers is here to guide you through the process and help you secure your return to Canada with confidence. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step towards reuniting with your loved ones, resuming work, or continuing your studies in Canada.

At Akrami and Associates, we understand the challenges and stress that come with navigating the complex world of Canadian immigration. That’s why we’re committed to providing our clients with the support and guidance they need to achieve their immigration goals, whether that’s obtaining an ARC, securing permanent residency, or applying for Canadian citizenship.

We take a client-focused approach to our work, always putting your needs and priorities first. We’ll work closely with you throughout the entire ARC application process, keeping you informed and updated every step of the way. Our team of immigration lawyers has years of experience in helping clients with a wide range of immigration matters, and we’re committed to using that expertise to help you achieve your immigration goals.

In addition to our services related to obtaining an ARC, we also offer a wide range of other immigration services, including:

No matter what your immigration needs may be, our team at Akrami and Associates is here to help. We’ll provide you with the support, guidance, and expertise you need to navigate the complex world of Canadian immigration with confidence.

Don’t let the current travel restrictions and immigration policies stand in the way of your return to Canada. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step towards achieving your immigration.

Contact Us Today!

Don’t let a removal order stop you from reuniting with loved ones, pursuing opportunities, or visiting Canada. Contact Akrami & Associates today, and let us help you take the first step toward your fresh start. There’s always a Way with us!