IRCC provides an update on who can come to Canada

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provided an update on June 12, 2020, regarding who can travel to Canada while the travel restriction is still in place. The travel restrictions were implemented since March 18, 2020, due to the pandemic but the authority is providing the regular updates regarding their policies to enter Canada.

Along with the travel restrictions, the exemptions were announced where certain individuals could travel to Canada if they are eligible according to the travel exemption guidelines. In the recent update, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that the immediate family members are allowed to travel to Canada in given cases and now even more flexibility is given for immediate family members in Canada.

Examples of Travel for non-optional reasons

IRCC stated that foreign nationals can enter Canada for non-optional or non-discretionary purposes and it is the responsibility of foreign nationals to demonstrate the reason for their trip.

Immediate family or Canadian citizens or permanent residents are deemed for non-discretionary or non-optional reasons if they are planning to travel for at least 15 and they should be traveling with or to reunite with their family members. Also, IRCC has ensured that the officers show flexibility even if the travel length is less than 15 days, as long as the trip is non-optional. Although, travelers are supposed to show the evidence that they are exempted from traveling and their travel purpose is non-optional or non-discretionary. Such immediate family members coming to Canada from any country other than the United States must obtain an authorization letter from IRCC.

Immediate family members:

The immediate family of Canadians and permanent residents are limited to:

1. Spouses or common-law partners
2. Dependent children
3. Grandchildren
4. Parents or step-parents
5. Guardians or tutors
6. Immediate family can enter Canada if they meet the following criteria

Recommended documents

IRCC has recommended the following documents that are to be provided:

1. Proof of immediate family being a Canadian or permanent resident that includes Canadian passport, proof of Canadian citizenship, Canadian permanent resident card and so on
2. Relationship to the family member that includes marriage certificate or proof of common-law status, birth certificate, confirmation of permanent residence for the family class, and so on
3. Paper and electronic copies of the above documents are acceptable by IRCC
4. The individuals who plan to travel Canada to be with immediate family who are temporary residents are recommended to show copies of their family member’s work permit, study permit, temporary resident permit or visitor’s record, as well as proof of their relationship to the family member, and written authorization from IRCC

IRCC will provide a letter to such individuals to demonstrate to the airline the individual is allowed to come to Canada.

Please note that on arrival in Canada, the travelers are supposed to go in self-quarantine for 14-days. The travelers must show the plan and arrangement for quarantine. Also, if the travelers have COVID-19 or any symptoms of coronavirus, they will not be allowed to board a flight or to enter Canada.

IRCC has noted that more updates regarding the information containing examples of non-optional travel for international students and temporary foreign workers.

In case of query or concern, or inquiry for immigration, please feel free to contact us below:

Email: inquiry@winnyimmigration.com Call: 1800-419-3242 | 76219-51529