Canada’s New Immigration Rules

Canada’s New Immigration Rules: Temporary Resident Visa & eTA Cancellations Explained (2025)

Canada Introduces Stricter Immigration Rules: Temporary Resident Document Cancellations Now in Effect

As of January 31, 2025, Canada has introduced new immigration regulations that grant immigration and border services officers the authority to cancel Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) and Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTAs) under specific conditions. These amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) have already been published in the Canada Gazette II, making them official.

This update has significant implications for temporary residents in Canada, including tourists, students, and foreign workers. Understanding these changes is essential for avoiding unexpected travel disruptions or visa cancellations.

What Has Changed?

With the new regulations in place, immigration officials can now cancel TRVs and eTAs in situations where:

• A foreign national becomes inadmissible due to a change in status or circumstances.
• There is evidence that the visa holder does not intend to leave Canada by the end of their authorized stay.
• The visa or eTA was issued due to an administrative error.
• A study permit or work permit application is denied after submission.

Who Is Affected?

The new rules primarily impact foreign nationals who hold temporary resident documents, such as: ✅ Tourists with a TRV or eTA ✅ International students with study permits ✅ Foreign workers with work permits

While immigration officers have been given explicit authority to cancel visas, no other lawful authority can revoke these documents. This means that once a visa or permit is granted, it remains valid unless directly canceled by an immigration officer.

Consequences of Visa or eTA Cancellation

If a temporary resident document is canceled, individuals may face the following:

• Travel disruptions: Being denied boarding at the airport or refused entry at a port of entry.
• Legal consequences: Being required to leave Canada immediately.
• Reapplication delays: Waiting for a reissuance of a new TRV or eTA.
• Impact on future applications: Having a cancellation record on the IRCC account, which could influence future immigration decisions.
• Financial losses: If a foreign national has already booked flights or accommodations and is no longer authorized to travel to Canada.

Understanding TRVs and eTAs

Under Canada’s immigration policy:

• A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required for travelers from non-visa-exempt countries. TRVs can be issued for single or multiple entries and are valid for up to 10 years.
• An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is mandatory for travelers from visa-exempt countries who are flying to Canada. An eTA is electronically linked to a passport and remains valid for up to 5 years or until the passport expires.

Estimated Impact: 7,000 Additional Cancellations Per Year

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expects an additional 7,000 cancellations of temporary resident documents annually. While some individuals may be informed of their cancellation in advance, others may only learn of it when attempting to travel.

IRCC aims to notify affected individuals via their IRCC account or email as soon as possible, including the specific reasons for their document cancellation.

How to Avoid TRV or eTA Cancellation?

If you are currently holding a Canada visa or planning to apply for one, follow these key guidelines to reduce the risk of cancellation:

✅ Keep your status valid: Ensure that you comply with all admissibility and eligibility requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).

✅ Maintain strong ties to your home country: Proof of employment, family, and financial stability can help demonstrate your intent to leave Canada after your stay.

✅ Submit complete and accurate documentation: Incorrect or incomplete paperwork can lead to administrative errors, increasing the likelihood of visa revocation.

✅ Stay informed about rule changes: Immigration policies are constantly evolving—always check for the latest updates before traveling.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed & Travel Smart

Canada’s new immigration regulations tighten control over temporary resident documents, making compliance more critical than ever. If you’re planning a trip, studying, or working in Canada, understanding these new rules will help you avoid unexpected issues.

For the latest visa, eTA, and immigration updates, visit Matrix Visa Services. Our experts ensure that your application is accurate, compliant, and processed swiftly.