Criminal inadmissibility to Canada is a key consideration for anyone with a past conviction who wants to enter or stay in the country. Whether you’re planning to visit, work, study, or apply for permanent residency, having a criminal record can affect your ability to do so. But the good news is that there are solutions available. From temporary resident permits (TRPs) to criminal rehabilitation and legal opinion letters, you may be able to resolve your inadmissibility and move forward with your plans.

What Is Criminal Inadmissibility?

Canadian authorities prohibit entry to individuals convicted of certain crimes — whether those offenses were committed in Canada or abroad.
This policy is designed to protect Canadian society while honoring fairness and due process for those with past offenses.
Non-citizens with a criminal record may be refused entry, removed from Canada, or denied permanent residence if their offenses raise questions about their character or pose a potential risk.

Types of Criminal Inadmissibility in Canada

Canadian law divides criminal inadmissibility into two main categories:

➥ Criminality:
This applies to offenses that are indictable under Canadian law or two or more summary offenses.
For example: theft, fraud under $5,000, or possession of a small amount of drugs.

➥ Serious Criminality:
This applies if you were convicted of a crime that carries a maximum sentence of 10 years or more in Canada, or you received a sentence of more than 6 months in jail.
For example: assault causing bodily harm or drug trafficking.

Solutions to Overcome Criminal Inadmissibility to Canada

Your past offenses do not necessarily prohibit you from entering or staying in Canada. There are mechanisms available to resolve your inadmissibility:

1️⃣ Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)

A TRP lets you enter Canada temporarily, typically for a specific purpose — like a business meeting, a family event, or a medical treatment — even if you’re criminally inadmissible.
To be eligible, you must demonstrate a compelling need to enter and show that you do not pose a risk to Canadian society.

2️⃣ Criminal Rehabilitation

This is a permanent solution.
If you apply and are approved for criminal rehabilitation, Canadian authorities will no longer consider you inadmissible due to your past offenses.
To be eligible, you must have finished serving your sentence at least 5 years previously and must show you have been a law-abiding citizen since then.

3️⃣ Deemed Rehabilitation

Some people may be “deemed rehabilitated” without needing to apply.
This typically applies when at least 10 years have gone by since the sentence was completed and the offense was non-serious.

4️⃣ Legal Opinion Letter

A legal opinion letter, prepared by a Canadian immigration lawyer, can be a powerful tool to clarify your situation to Canadian authorities.
This document typically assesses your offenses under Canadian law and explains how and why you should be allowed to enter Canada.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Overcome Criminal Inadmissibility to Canada

At ICC Immigration, we specialize in guiding you through this complex process. Our team of Canadian immigration experts will:

✅ Analyse your criminal record:
We will match your offenses against Canadian criminal codes and advise you on your options.

✅ Identify the best path forward:
Whether it’s applying for a TRP, criminal rehabilitation, or obtaining a legal opinion, we will develop a tailored strategy for you.

✅ Support you through every step:
From collecting documents to filing applications and addressing questions from Canadian authorities, we handle all the details to maximize your chances of approval.

✅ Save you time and stress:
Instead of navigating this process on your own, you can rely on us to resolve your inadmissibility efficiently and effectively.

Final Thoughts

Having a criminal record doesn’t have to be a permanent barrier to entering or staying in Canada.
With proper legal guidance, you can resolve your criminal inadmissibility and pursue your Canadian future — whether it’s for tourism, education, employment, or permanent residence.
Don’t let past mistakes dictate your future.
Talk to the experts at ICC Immigration today and find the path forward that’s right for you.