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Last verified: June 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca← Back to IRPA ExplorerLast verified: June 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca
PART 3: Enforcement
§124

Contravention of Act

Contravention of Act

CriminalOffences
🍁 In Simple Terms

The catch-all offence. It covers breaking any rule in this law that has no penalty of its own, ignoring a condition placed on you, escaping from immigration custody, and employing a foreign national who has no right to work. Employers cannot hide behind not knowing: failing to make reasonable checks counts as knowing.

Affects: Persons subject to removal or detention
Legal Text: IRPA Section 124

(1)Every person commits an offence who (a)contravenes a provision of this Act for which a penalty is not specifically provided or fails to comply with a condition or obligation imposed under this Act; (b)escapes or attempts to escape from lawful custody or detention under this Act; or (c)employs a foreign national in a capacity in which the foreign national is not authorized under this Act to be employed.

In Practice
Official Source: Justice Canada: IRPA s. 124 (authoritative, may differ from this display)
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