Inadmissible to Canada

Embarking on a journey to Canada can be an exciting prospect, whether it is for work, study, or simply exploring the beautiful and diverse landscapes of the country.

However, the path to entry is not always straightforward as people might think, and individuals may find themselves facing the intimidating barrier of inadmissibility. 

Understanding the various categories of inadmissibility to Canada is very important for anyone planning to visit or relocate to the country. Being well-informed about inadmissibility allows individuals to make informed decisions by anticipating potential challenges and allowing for proactive measures to avoid potential issues. This ensures a smoother navigation of the Canadian immigration system, adherence to regulations, and an overall higher chance of successful entry.

What Does it Mean to be Inadmissible to Canada?

To enter Canada, you first need to be eligible to enter – this is called being admissible. Being deemed inadmissible to Canada means that you are prohibited from entering the country according to Canadian immigration laws. Without the proper documentation or permit, you will likely be denied entry at the border, or detained at the airport until deportation. 

There are many different reasons a person may be deemed inadmissible to Canada; most have to do with past or current criminal history, medical issues, misrepresentation, and insufficient financial resources. 

Fortunately, being deemed inadmissible does not entail a permanent ban. There are several resources available for anyone deemed inadmissible to be granted special permission to enter Canada, given they meet the eligibility requirements.

What is Criminal Inadmissibility?

Canada’s immigration authorities carefully assess admissibility for each foreign national trying to enter the country under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). One of the most important factors in this process involves a criminal background check that may affect admissibility for: 

1. Foreign nationals 
2. Temporary visitors
3. International students
4. Foreign workers
5. Permanent residents

You  may be denied entry into Canada if:

1. You have committed or been convicted of a crime in your home country 
2. The offence has an equivalent under Canadian law and
3. You haven’t obtained:
   • A record suspension (formerly called a pardon), or
   • A legal rehabilitation under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act

One common reason a person may be deemed criminally inadmissible is due to a Driving Under the Influence (DUI, DWAI, DWI, OWI) charge . If you have one or more recent convictions for driving while intoxicated, you are likely to be denied entry into Canada. 

Click here for more information about: Criminal Inadmissibility and Entering Canada with a DUI

What is Medical Inadmissibility?

Individuals may also be denied entry into Canada due to medical concerns if they:

1. Are deemed to pose a danger to public health and/or
   • Diseases that are highly infectious such as active tuberculosis or active syphilis
2. Are deemed to pose a danger to public safety and/or
   • Such as conditions that could lead to unpredictable/violent behaviour 
3. Are deemed to likely place an excessive demand from publicly funded Canadian health and/or social services 
   • The 2025 cost threshold is $135,810 over the span of 5 years (or $27,162 per year)

Click here to read more about: Medical inadmissibility

What is Inadmissibility due to Misrepresentation?

Inadmissibility due to misrepresentation refers to a situation where an individual provides information during the immigration application process that is both:

1. False, misleading, or incomplete; AND
   • False statements, fraudulent documentation, or withholding relevant details
2. Could lead to incorrect application of immigration law in your case

Misrepresentation is considered a serious offence as it undermines the integrity of the immigration system. Consequences can include:

1. Visa refusals
2. Permanent residency revocation
3. Bans on future entries

The importance of honesty and transparency in the application process cannot be emphasized enough, as misrepresentation can have severe and lasting implications on an individual’s immigration status in Canada.

Click here to read more about: What is Misrepresentation in Canadian Immigration?

What is Inadmissibility due to Financial Reasons?

Individuals may be deemed inadmissible due to financial reasons if they:

1. Are unable to prove possession of sufficient funds to support themselves or their dependents during their stay in Canada
2. Fail to convince an officer that adequate arrangements for financial support and care have been made without relying on social assistance

Insufficiency of these requirements may result in a visa refusal or render an individual ineligible for entry. These qualifications are particularly relevant for certain immigration streams, such as visitor visas, study permits, or family sponsorships. 

It is crucial for applicants to carefully adhere to the financial guidelines outlined by immigration authorities to avoid being classified as inadmissible on financial grounds. 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has published the minimum amount of money needed for Canadian immigration based on the number of people in your family (updated June 3, 2024):

Click here to read more about: How to Meet the Proof of Means of Financial Support

How Do I Overcome Inadmissibility?

Inadmissibility is not equivalent to a permanent ban from entering Canada. Temporary or permanent solutions are available to help those otherwise considered to be inadmissible to Canada. 

Addressing different types of inadmissibility is complex and it is very important to:

1. Understand your reason for inadmissibility
   • Determine which category of inadmissibility applies to you and why you fall under this category
2. Gather supporting documents 
   • Financial statements, medical records, criminal records, etc. 
3. Apply for the appropriate permit, appeal or rehabilitation
4. Consult a reliable immigration lawyer