Ministerial Relief

Pursuant to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and Regulations (IRPR) a foreign national can apply for a declaration of relief – known as a “Ministerial relief” if they have been found to be inadmissible to Canada on security grounds, human or international rights violations, and/or organized criminality, resulting in a removal order being issued against them or an application for temporary or permanent residence being denied in Canada or overseas. 

The Canada Border Services Agency assesses requests for Ministerial relief and develops a recommendation for the Minister. The Ministerial Relief Unit of the Canada Border Services Agency  receives and processes Ministerial Relief applications. Decisions rest solely with the Minister and cannot be delegated to government officials.

Upon being granted relief by the Minister, the matters which had led to a finding of inadmissibility regarding security, human or international rights violation or organized criminality no longer constitute inadmissibility.

If you are contemplating applying for Ministerial Relief you may wish to book a paid consultation with us.