Pathway finder
Appeal a removal order: I am not a permanent resident
Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Outside office hours, leave a message at 905-452-0348 with your number, and say if someone is detained or has a removal date.
Routes people usually look at
1
What to do today
Call a lawyer now. The Federal Court deadline can be as short as 15 days. Find the removal order and write down the date you got it.2
A Federal Court review
Most people who are not permanent residents cannot appeal a removal order to the Immigration Appeal Division. Instead, you can ask the Federal Court for leave, meaning permission, to review the decision. For a decision made in Canada, the deadline is usually 15 days after you are told of it.3
A pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA)
If you fear harm in your home country and you qualify. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will tell you when you can apply.4
A humanitarian and compassionate application
Which may lead to permanent residence. It does not stop removal on its own.5
A temporary resident permit
In some cases.
What’s usually involved
- Write down the date you got the removal order.
- Decide quickly whether to ask the Federal Court for a review.
- Check if you qualify for a PRRA or other applications.
- Go to every CBSA reporting appointment.
- If you get a removal date, go to the urgent steps under “I already have a removal date”.
Documents you’ll typically need
Timing
The Federal Court leave deadline is short and strict. For applications to IRCC, see the processing times page.
Common pitfalls
- Waiting for a removal date before you act
- Thinking an open application stops removal
- Missing a CBSA reporting date, which can lead to an arrest warrant
- Not telling the CBSA your current address
This is general information, not legal advice about your situation.
Time-critical: call the office now
Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Bring this summary. Consultations in English, Punjabi and Hindi.