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Guide to Authorisation to Return to Canada (ARC)

An Authorisation to Return to Canada (ARC) is a formal permission granted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to foreign nationals who have previously been removed from Canada. This authorisation allows individuals with past immigration violations to legally re-enter the country. Whether you were issued a Departure Order, Exclusion Order, or Deportation Order, an ARC may be necessary before returning.

In today’s immigration landscape, ARC applications are increasingly common due to rising removals and stricter enforcement of visa rules. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the ARC process.

What Is an Authorisation to Return to Canada (ARC)?

An ARC is a written permission issued by IRCC that allows a foreign national previously removed from Canada to re-enter. It is applicable when the individual was subject to one of three removal orders under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA):

  • Departure Order: If complied with (i.e., the person leaves within 30 days and confirms departure), no ARC is needed. If not complied with, it turns into a Deportation Order.
  • Exclusion Order: Bars return to Canada for 1 year (or 5 years for misrepresentation). ARC is required for early return or if departure was not verified.
  • Deportation Order: Always requires an ARC for re-entry.

Attempting to return to Canada without an ARC when one is required can result in immediate detention, removal, and even permanent inadmissibility.

Who Needs an ARC?

You need to apply for an ARC if:

  • You were removed from Canada under a Deportation Order.
  • You failed to leave within the time frame of a Departure Order, resulting in a Deportation Order.
  • You want to return during the restricted period of an Exclusion Order.
  • Your departure was not properly confirmed or documented.

Important: Individuals removed due to criminal inadmissibility may also need to apply for criminal rehabilitation, in addition to an ARC.

Common Reasons for ARC Applications

IRCC only grants ARCs in exceptional and justified circumstances. Some of the most accepted reasons include:

1. Family Emergency or Humanitarian Grounds: Examples include the illness or death of a close family member in Canada. Strong documentation—such as medical letters or death certificates—is essential.

2. Business / Employment Obligations: Applicants with business ties, job offers, or essential roles in Canadian companies may qualify if they can demonstrate economic necessity.

3. Medical Treatment: Some applicants require specialised treatment only available in Canada. In these cases, detailed medical reports and proof of financial support for treatment must be submitted.

These reasons are not guarantees of approval but serve as strong foundations when well-supported.

How to Apply for an ARC (Step-by-Step)

The ARC application process is highly procedural. Here's how to approach it:

  1. Determine Your Eligibility

Review the type of removal order and whether inadmissibility issues have been resolved.

  1. Collect All Necessary Documents

Required documents include Passport and ID, Copy of the removal order, Proof of departure (where applicable), Police clearance certificates, Financial proof, Medical documentation (if applicable), and Proof of rehabilitation

  1. Write a Letter of Explanation

Explain the reasons for returning, detail any rehabilitation, and express remorse and accountability for past actions.

  1. Complete IRCC Forms

Fill out the required application forms, ensuring they are up-to-date.

  1. Submit the Application

Send the completed package to the Canadian visa office responsible for your country. Processing can take 6 to 12 months.

  1. Interview (if requested)

Some applicants may be called in for an interview to assess the legitimacy and urgency of their request.

IRCC considers several key factors:

  • Reason for Original Removal: Those who voluntarily left Canada and complied with their removal order tend to have stronger cases.
  • Evidence of Rehabilitation: Demonstrating that the inadmissibility issues have been resolved is critical.
  • Ties to Canada: Family, business, or educational connections strengthen your case.
  • Risk Assessment: IRCC evaluates whether your return poses a threat to public safety or the immigration system.

Many applications are denied due to:

  • Lack of documentation
  • Unresolved inadmissibility issues
  • Weak justification for return
  • Insufficient ties to Canada
  • Inconsistencies or misrepresentations in the application

Even a minor oversight—like omitting a supporting document—can result in refusal. Given the complexity, professional legal guidance is often recommended.

We at ICH can help streamline your application, anticipate issues, and improve your chances of approval. If you’ve been removed from Canada and want to return legally, understanding and applying for an ARC is your first critical step.

Returning to Canada after removal is possible, but not guaranteed. An Authorisation to Return to Canada is a powerful legal tool that allows you to re-enter under certain conditions. Whether you seek to reunite with family, fulfil business duties, or receive medical care, you must build a strong, well-documented case that addresses past issues and shows you are no longer a risk to Canadian society.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 or +1 647 453 7660 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.

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