Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced new entry processes to boost family reunification amidst growing distances between family members due to the pandemic.
Many international travel restrictions were put in place by the Canadian Government to control the spread of COVID-19. As a result, many Canadian families have not been able to meet their loved ones who were living outside Canada.
New Travel Restriction Exemptions for Extended Family Members
On October 8, 2020, the Canadian Government introduced new entry processes to Canada for extended family members of Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, and people registered as Indians under Canada’s Indian Act.
The new and simplified rules help determine who is included under the definition of ‘extended family member’ and what they need to do to enter Canada. They should be eligible to travel and need to satisfy the relevant criteria, including but not limited to:
- Eligible to enter Canada as an immediate family member
- Clear all the airline’s health checks to confirm that you neither have COVID-19 nor any symptoms of it
- Carry accurate and relevant travel documentation to Canada such as a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization
- Complete the statutory declaration as an extended family member and attach relevant documentation for confirming that they are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person registered under Canada’s Indian Act as an Indian
- Submit documentation that confirms their stay in Canada for 15 days or more
New Entry Restrictions Eased to Allow Entry to Canada Under Compassionate Reasons
A new entry process has been created by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) that allows foreign nationals to enter Canada on compassionate grounds, including but not limited to:
- Support a close family member who’s critically ill
- Be physically present with a loved one in their final or end moments in life
- Provide care to a person who needs medical support
- Be available for an end-of-life ceremony or a funeral of a loved one
Canadian provinces and territories may have their own entry rules that need to be reviewed and adhered to in addition to the federal regulations administered by IRCC.
Entry to Canada – How We Can Help
Want your partner, child, or parent to come to Canada? Our experienced and compassionate immigration lawyers at Nanda & Associate Lawyers can help. Skilled immigration lawyers will analyze your specific case and suggest customized solutions to help you complete your family. Get started today with a free initial consultation with one of our top-rated immigration lawyers to start your family reunification process.
