Authority to Return

GBWS

What Is an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC)?

An Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) is an official approval letter from IRCC allowing a foreign national previously removed from Canada to return to Canada legally.
In the absence of an ARC, any individual attempting to re-enter after removal can be detained, be fined, and be excluded from Canada permanently.

Each ARC case is determined on its own merits, based on the removal grounds, the length of time after removal, and the applicant’s situation at present.
A well-prepared ARC application demonstrates rehabilitation, responsibility, and a strong justification for re-entry to Canada.

Types of Removal Orders in Canada

There are three basic types of removal orders in Canadian immigration law. Knowing which one you’ve been issued with determines if you need an ARC.

1. Departure Order

A Departure Order instructs you to depart Canada within 30 days and report your departure to a Canadian immigration officer.

If you leave properly, you don’t require an ARC to come back.
If you don’t have evidence or you were denied on grounds of misrepresentation, you cannot come back in five years unless you get an ARC.

2. Exclusion Order

An Exclusion Order bars you from ever returning to Canada for 12 months.
If you can establish that you left over 12 months ago and you have a valid Certificate of Departure, you can re-enter without an ARC.

If you don’t have evidence or you were denied on grounds of misrepresentation, you cannot come back in five years unless you get an SOC.

3. Deportation Order

A Deportation Order keeps you out of Canada for good unless you’re granted an Authorization to Return to Canada. No matter how long it has been, a deportation order always needs an ARC.

Note: If you were deported because you were accompanying a family member, you normally do not need to apply for an ARC separately.

When You Need an ARC

You need to apply for an ARC if you:

Were given a Deportation Order by Canada
Failed to leave under a Departure Order
Did not verify your departure with immigration authorities
Want to come back prior to the expiry of your Exclusion Order period
Do not have a valid Certificate of Departure
Were removed due to criminal inadmissibility or misrepresentation
Violated the conditions of your visa, study, or work permit

We check your immigration history and whether an ARC is necessary at GBWS before we make your application ready.

Why Choose GBWS for Your ARC Application

Seeking an Authorization to Return to Canada is a serious legal procedure. IRCC officers examine each situation diligently, and refusals are the standard when applications are vague or lacking supporting evidence.
GBWS prevents these problems for you with:

In-Depth Case Review

We examine your removal circumstances, immigration record, and return reasons for Canada to develop a solid, well-documented case.

Strategic Documentation

Our team helps you gather and verify all documents required for police certificates, history of travels, and evidence of finances and write persuasive letters highlighting rehabilitation and improvement for the better.

Legal Adherence

We guarantee that your ARC application is strictly in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) and the latest IRCC policies. At GBWS we also deal with ancillary applications, including Criminal Rehabilitation, Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), or visitor visa applications if required.

Transparent Support

GBWS gives you clear direction on fees, timelines to expect, and communication from IRCS so you are always in the know at each step of your case.

ARC Application Process with GBWS

Step 1: First Consultation

We start with an examination of your removal order and immigration history to ensure if an ARC is required and strategize your application approach.

Step 2: Integrate Applications

ARC applications are usually made in conjunction with some other immigration application, like a visitor visa, study permit, work permit, or permanent residence.

Step 3: Document Gathering & Explanatory Letter

Each ARC should contain a comprehensive personal letter describing why you can be permitted to come back. GBWS prepares a polished, compelling explanation to cover:

Why you departed or were deported from Canada
What changed since your deportation
Evidence of rehabilitation and compliance with the law
The need and purpose of returning

Supporting documents can include:

Passport and travel documents
Certificate of Departure (if required)
RCMP-approved criminal background check
Evidence of family connections, work, or studies
Identity and financial documents

Step 4: Payment of Fee and Submission

The processing fee for the ARC is CAD $400 and should be paid prior to submitting your application.
If the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) covered the cost of your removal, you also need to pay them back:

$12,880 for escorted air removals (after April 1, 2025)
$3,840 for the majority of other types of removals

GBWS ensures all receipts and payments are accurately added to your application.

Step 5: IRCC Communication

We respond to inquiries, handle all visa office communication, and keep you informed with timely updates until a final decision.

Step 6: Decision & Next Steps

If your ARC is approved, we assist in visa issuance, travel arrangements, and compliance counselling. In case of rejection, we review why and advise you to reapply with improved evidence.

Processing Time & Fees

Processing typically takes 6 to 18 months, depending on your case and visa office.
Government and administrative fees apply, but GBWS provides full transparency with a clear quote and timeline before application submission.

Factors IRCC Considers in ARC Decisions

IRCC officers review every ARC case on the basis of:

Reason for removal – severity and seriousness of your previous offense
Time since removal and stability evidence
Rehabilitation – evidence that situation has improved
Purpose of return – validity of your reason to return
Ties to Canada – family, work, or humanitarian
Risk assessment – assurance that your return does not pose any threat to Canada

GBWS builds your ARC submission to discuss all of these factors succinctly and persuasively.

ARC, Criminal Rehabilitation & TRP

If your removal was on grounds of criminal inadmissibility.

You may need to apply for Criminal Rehabilitation to demonstrate you’re no longer inadmissible.
If not yet eligible, a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) can allow temporary legal entry into Canada.

GBWS integrates these complex applications strategically so your case meets all IRCC legal and procedural standards.

ARC Processing Times

Processing times for ARC applications are quite different, depending on the visa office, complexity of the case, and background checks. The majority of cases are 6 months to 1 year. GBWS ensures that your file is accurate, complete, and professionally prepared to avoid delays. ARC fees cannot be refunded in case your application is rejected.

Why GBWS Is the Trusted ARC Consultant in Canada

Experienced licensed immigration practitioners who have years of experience with inadmissibility and removal case work.
Full-service case handling from beginning to end.
Safe and secure handling of your documents.
Honest and open communication, no surprises or empty promises.

Rebuild Your Future in Canada with GBWS

An Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) may be your ticket to a new start.
Whether you’re returning for family, education, work, or humanitarian reasons, GBWS Immigration Services has the legal know-how and individualized assistance to facilitate your return.