January 17, 2026
Can a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Save Your Status in Canada? Immigration Experts Explain
Understanding Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs) and Their Role in Regaining Legal Status
Falling out of status in Canada or violating the conditions of your visa can be stressful. You may have heard that applying for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) could allow you to remain in Canada legally. While TRPs can provide a solution in some cases, it is important to understand that approval is entirely discretionary and depends on how an immigration officer assesses your circumstances.
At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., we guide clients through this complex process to maximize their chances of success.
What Is a TRP?
A Temporary Resident Permit allows individuals who are inadmissible or out of status to remain in Canada temporarily, if an immigration officer determines it is justified.
TRPs are designed to address situations such as:
- Strong humanitarian or compassionate reasons
- Family ties in Canada
- Evidence that your presence serves a meaningful purpose, such as work contributions or caregiving responsibilities
Important: A TRP is not guaranteed. Approval is discretionary, and officers will weigh all circumstances carefully.
TRPs and the Courts
Recent Federal Court decisions, including Howlader (2025 FC 274), Ogbonna (2024 FC 1467), and Singh (2025 FC 1520), have clarified how TRPs are assessed:
- Flexibility and compassion: Officers can exercise discretion when strict rules would cause undue hardship.
- Case-by-case evaluation: Each TRP application is unique. Applicants do not need “extraordinary” reasons, but must show the officer that granting a TRP is reasonable.
- Discretionary limits: Even with valid reasons, a TRP can be refused, particularly if other legal avenues exist, such as leaving Canada and reapplying.
Lessons from the Singh Case
In Singh v. Canada (2025 FC 1520), an international student who stopped studying, worked without authorization, and overstayed his permit applied for a TRP. He cited pandemic-related disruptions and family support responsibilities. The TRP was refused because the officer determined Singh could return to India and reapply legally, and there was no evidence that leaving Canada would cause genuine hardship.
The Court emphasized:
“A TRP is not meant to reward non-compliance when there are other legal ways to restore status.”
This case illustrates that TRPs are intended as a last-resort measure, not a shortcut for unauthorized residence.
Key Considerations for Applicants
If you are out of status or have violated your permit, keep the following in mind:
- TRPs are possible but challenging: You must present strong, well-documented reasons for temporary relief.
- Demonstrate genuine hardship: Officers need to see that leaving Canada would cause significant problems.
- Honesty is essential: Every statement must be truthful and supported by evidence.
- Explore alternative remedies: Restoration of status, voluntary departure, or Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) applications may sometimes be more appropriate than a TRP.
How MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd. Can Assist
Applying for a TRP or other solutions to restore status can be complex. At MyWorld Immigration Services Ltd., we help clients:
- Assess the most effective legal strategy
- Prepare strong, persuasive TRP applications
- Explore all available options to regain legal status in Canada
Attempting to navigate this process alone can increase the risk of refusal. Expert guidance ensures your application is accurate, comprehensive, and properly presented.
Contact MyWorld Immigration
For confidential guidance and professional support with TRPs or other status restoration options, contact:
Harminder Singh Saini, RCIC–IRB
Email: info@myworldimmigration.com
Website: www.myworldimmigration.com
WhatsApp: +1-672-399-0000
Instagram: @myworldimmigration
Serving clients across Canada and internationally.