Updated the rules for obtaining a residence permit for immigrants who arrived as minors

It is extremely difficult to obtain permanent resident status in Canada if you are barred from entering the country. This becomes a problem for those who came to Canada as minors but never became permanent residents or citizens and are now unable to participate in programs. Some of these people are threatened with deportation.

The Canadian authorities expressed concern about the vulnerability of these people and decided to update the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The new government policy provides for the possibility of permanent resident status for eligible foreign nationals and their families in Canada.

Who can now qualify for a residence permit?

Foreign nationals who meet the following requirements:

• entered Canada before the age of 19;
• is physically present in Canada at the time of application AND at the time of obtaining a residence permit;
• has been living in Canada for at least three years at the time of application;
• has been living in Canada since age 19 (if over age 19);
• has been under the legal responsibility of a public child and family care agency for at least 1 year;
• is going to live in Canada outside of Quebec;
• does not have an entry ban or has one for a limited list of reasons (see official website);
• is not a person referred to in Article 1, Section F of the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees (having committed crimes against humanity, war crimes and the like);
• has a legally established document for identification.

A family member of such a foreign national may also qualify for a residence permit if he/she is included in the application, is in Canada and has the appropriate documents.

Expiration dates

The changes are effective January 22, 2024, and will expire on January 21, 2027. This interim public policy may be revoked at any time. All applications received prior to expiration or early revocation will be processed in accordance with public policy.

This public policy provides a fee waiver for principal applicants and their families to minimize the financial burden on this population and their families when applying for permanent residency.