Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino recently stated in his discussion with Canadian Bar Association that “Immigration will absolutely be key to our success and our economy recovery. We continue to rely on immigration, it will be an economic driver and this will be the North Star of our policy going forward.”
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (“IRCC”) echoes and executes similar immigration policies, as highlighted by its Minister and continues to welcome new Permanent Residents to Canada, with some flexibility, some restrictions.
If the permanent resident application was approved on or before March 18th, foreign nationals are exempted from travel restrictions. They can enter Canada with a clear quarantine plan, whether they are symptomatic or asymptomatic. The quarantine plan will need to confirm if they will have access to basic necessities such as food and medication. They are also required to wear a non-medical mask or face covering, to proceed to their final destination. All landing appointments of permanent residents will be conducted by telephone, whenever possible.
For individuals who cannot travel to Canada due to travel restrictions and their documents pertaining to permanent residency are expiring soon, they must notify IRCC by using the web form (https://secure.cic.gc.ca/enquiries-renseignements/canada-case-cas-eng.aspx ) about the reason of their inability to travel. Once they have travel plans, individuals must prepare the web form (https://secure.cic.gc.ca/enquiries-renseignements/canada-case-cas-eng.aspx ) again to notify IRCC so they can be guided accordingly.
IRCC continues to process applications that are pending and will not close or refuse applications because of missing documents or information. There is an automatic 90 day extension to provide the outstanding documents such as police clearance certificate and medical examination.
At NPZ, our U.S. and Canadian Immigration Law Specialists seek to assist clients with regard to employment and family immigration issues. If you or your friends or family should have any questions, please feel free to contact us at info@visaserve.com or you can call our offices at 201-670-0006 (X 100). We look forward to being able to assist you.