Are you a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who needs to leave the country for an extended period of time? If so, you may require an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) to ensure that you can return to Canada when you are ready. This article will provide you with all the information you need to understand what an ARC is, who needs one, and how to apply for it.
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:
| Removal Order Type |
| Departure Order |
| Exclusion Order |
| Deportation Order |
| Duration |
| 30 days to leave |
| 1-year ban (5 years for misrepresentation) |
| Permanent ban |
| Key Requirements |
| Must confirm departure with CBSA |
| Certificate of Departure needed |
| ARC required for any return |
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:
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.
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:
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.
How to Apply for an Authorization to Return to Canada?
Here’s the thing: immigration officers want to see real change since your removal order. They’ll look at:
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.
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:
Don’t worry – I’ll break down exactly what this journey might cost you:
| Type of Cost |
| Removal Cost (US/St. Pierre) |
| Removal Cost (Other Locations) |
| Processing Fees |
| Amount |
| CAD $1,252.63 |
| CAD $2,506.66 |
| Non-refundable |
Picture yourself getting ready for a big presentation – you’ll need every document perfectly prepared:
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.
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.
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:
| Document Type |
| Primary Documents |
| Financial Evidence |
| Supporting Letters |
| Translations |
| Purpose |
| Passport, removal order copies |
| Bank statements, fee payments |
| References, employment proof |
| Certified translations of non-English documents |
Each document must be certified and arranged by date. And remember – anything not in English or French needs proper certified translations.
Here’s where you can really shine!
1) Clear Organization
2)Professional Formatting
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?
Here’s what you’ll need at the very minimum:
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.
Here’s the thing: your supporting evidence can make or break your case. Let me show you how I organized mine:
| Document Type |
| Identity Documents |
| Financial Records |
| Legal Documents |
| Personal Documents |
| Examples |
| Passport, Driver’s License |
| Bank Statements, Fee Payments |
| Court Records, Police Certificates |
| Marriage Certificate, Birth Certificate |
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.
First things first: Canada takes inadmissibility seriously. Here’s what might keep you from entering:
| Inadmissibility Type |
| Security Concerns |
| Criminal History |
| Medical Issues |
| Financial Reasons |
| Misrepresentation |
| Key Considerations |
| Espionage, terrorism, violence |
| DUI, theft, assault, drug offenses |
| Public health/safety risks |
| Inability to support oneself |
| False information or withholding facts |
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:
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.
Ready to turn things around? Let’s look at your options:
1)Temporary Solutions:
2) Permanent Solutions:
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:
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.
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:
| Submission Method |
| Online Portal |
| Visa Application Center |
| Requirements |
| Digital documents, validated forms |
| Paper documents, prepaid airway bill |
| Processing Start |
| Immediate verification |
| After physical receipt |
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:
Think of your application like a train moving through different stations. Here’s where it stops along the way:
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.
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.
Picture yourself at the border – what do you need in your arsenal? Here’s your must-have list:
| Essential Documents |
| Valid Passport and approved visa |
| ARC Approval Letter |
| Entry Package |
| Financial Declarations |
| Medical Documentation |
| Additional Requirements |
| Must be valid beyond stay |
| Original copy required |
| Border officer explanation |
| Amounts over CAD 13,933.60 |
| If applicable |
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.
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.
To apply for an Authorization to Return to Canada, you will need to follow these steps:
To be eligible for an ARC, you must meet the following criteria:
To apply for an ARC, you will need to provide the following documents:
You can submit your application for an ARC either online or by mail. If you choose to submit your application online, you will need to create an account on the Government of Canada website and follow the instructions provided. If you choose to submit your application by mail, you will need to send your application and all required documents to the following address:
Case Processing Centre – Ottawa P.O. Box 8784 OTTAWA ON K1G 5J3 CANADA
There is a processing fee of $400 CAD for an ARC application. You can pay the fee online or by mail.
Once you have submitted your application and paid the processing fee, you will need to wait for processing. The processing time for an ARC application can vary depending on a number of factors, including the volume of applications being processed at the time, the completeness of your application, and the complexity of your case.
Once your application has been processed, you will receive a decision from the immigration officer. If your application is approved, you will be issued an ARC that will allow you to return to Canada. If your application is denied, you will be provided with a reason for the denial.
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 have made a misrepresentation, except in cases where the person is the sponsor’s spouse, common-law partner or child.
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:
The person has appealed the removal order or may be involved in other legal proceedings, such as a criminal trial.
The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) may have had difficulty obtaining passports or visas to permit the person to enter another country.
The person’s identity or citizenship cannot be confirmed.
The person does not appear for removal at the proper time or location, and the CBSA must issue an immigration arrest warrant.
Dangerous conditions exist that make it impossible to return the person to the country of origin safely.
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:
The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) may have had difficulty obtaining passports or visas to permit the person to enter another country.
The person’s identity or citizenship cannot be confirmed.
The person does not appear for removal at the proper time or location, and the CBSA must issue an immigration arrest warrant.
Dangerous conditions exist that make it impossible to return the person to the country of origin safely.
We Can Help You With Your Authorization to Return to Canada Application!
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.
The first step in the process is to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced immigration lawyers. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your specific situation and determine whether you’re eligible for an ARC. We’ll also provide you with an overview of the process, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with a clear understanding of the timelines and fees involved.
Once we’ve determined that you’re eligible for an ARC, we’ll work with you to collect all of the necessary documents and information to support your application. This can include things like proof of your Canadian Permanent Resident status, your travel history, and any other supporting documents required by Canadian immigration authorities.
Once we have all of the necessary documents and information, we’ll begin preparing your application for submission. This includes completing all of the required forms, drafting a detailed cover letter outlining your case, and compiling all of the supporting documents into a comprehensive application package.
If your ARC application is approved, we’ll work with you to plan your return to Canada. This can include providing you with information about quarantine rules and other travel requirements, as well as assisting you with any additional immigration matters that may need to be addressed.
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:
Express Entry applications
Study permits and visas
Work permits and visas
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.
A successful ARC application should include a detailed explanation of your deportation reasons, evidence that those reasons no longer apply, and a clear purpose for your return. It’s crucial to provide comprehensive documentation and address any inadmissibility concerns.
To show your commitment to compliance, provide evidence of a stable lifestyle, employment records, character references, and a detailed plan for your stay in Canada. Be prepared to explain how your circumstances have changed since the removal order
The processing time for ARC applications can vary but generally takes several months to a year. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date and be prepared for potential delays
Yes, you can reapply for entry to Canada at any time after a refusal, unless specifically instructed otherwise. However, it’s important to address the reasons for the previous refusal and provide new or additional information in your subsequent application.
An approved ARC does not guarantee entry into Canada. Border services officers have the final authority to determine admissibility at the port of entry. Be prepared to present all relevant documentation and answer questions about your situation and intentions.
| Title |
|---|
| Do You Need an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC)? |
| Applying for an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) |
| Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) |
| Tags |
|---|
| Authorization to Return to Canada, Authorization to Return to Canada ARC, Canadian Immigration, Canadian Temporary Residence, Denied entry to Canada |
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One of our Representatives will
assist you with your matter. Book Now!
Book a Consultation
Call us for
more Information
+1-416-477-2545
Toll Free: 1-877-820-7121
Call us today
Complete our form and one of our
Representatives will contact you.
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