The Government of Canada has updated its immigration regulations to give border officers more power to cancel temporary resident documents such as visas and electronic travel authorizations (eTAs).
The new rules took effect on January 31, 2025, and aim to improve the border security of Canada’s immigration system.
What’s Changing?
The changes allow immigration and border officers to cancel eTAs and temporary resident visas (TRVs) if:
- The person is no longer eligible due to a change in their circumstances of inadmissible(e.g., they provided false information, have a criminal record, or are deceased).
- The officer believes the person will not leave Canada after their stay.
- The document is lost, stolen, or destroyed.
Additionally, officers can now cancel TRVs, eTAs, work permits, and study permits if:
- The person becomes a permanent resident of Canada.
- The person is deceased.
- The document was issued due to an administrative mistake.
- The document holder violates any conditions associated with their visa or permit.
- There is a risk to public safety or national security associated with the document holder.
Why Are These Changes Important?
These updates help Canada protect its borders by ensuring only eligible individuals hold temporary resident documents.
The government says these changes will prevent fraud, improve security, and strengthen public trust in the immigration system.
By giving officers more authority, Canada aims to reduce risks of misuse and ensure that only those who meet the required criteria can enter or stay in the country.
These regulations are also expected to streamline the immigration process by reducing administrative delays caused by incorrect or fraudulent applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will these changes affect my current visa or eTA?
If your circumstances have not changed and you meet all requirements, your visa or eTA should not be affected. However, ensuring your information is up-to-date and correct is always advisable.
2. What if I lost my visa or eTA?
If your document is lost or stolen, it can now be officially canceled, and you may need to apply for a new one. Ensure you report the loss immediately to prevent unauthorized use of your document.
3. What happens if I become a permanent resident while holding a temporary visa?
Your temporary visa or permit will be automatically canceled as you no longer need it. You should update your status with immigration authorities to avoid complications when traveling.
4. What if an officer believes I won’t leave Canada after my visit?
Your visa or eTA can be canceled if an officer is not convinced that you will leave Canada before your authorized stay ends. To avoid this, ensure you have sufficient proof of your ties to your home country, such as a job, family commitments, or property ownership.
5. How can I ensure my application is not rejected under these new rules?
To improve your chances of approval, make sure to provide accurate and truthful information in your application. If you have a criminal record or other factors that may affect your eligibility, seek legal advice before applying.
These regulatory updates are part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to improve immigration processes and maintain security at the borders.
