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Last verified: June 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca← Back to IRPA ExplorerLast verified: June 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca
PART 1: Immigration to CanadaDIVISION 3: Entering and Remaining in Canada
§19

Right of entry of citizens and Indians

Right of entry of citizens and Indians

Admissibility
🍁 In Simple Terms

Citizenship is the strongest status there is. A Canadian citizen, and a person registered under the Indian Act, has the right to come into Canada once the officer is satisfied of who they are. A permanent resident must also be let in once the officer is satisfied they still hold that status.

Affects: Immigration applicants (economic, family, humanitarian)
Legal Text: IRPA Section 19

(1)Every Canadian citizen within the meaning of the Citizenship Act and every person registered as an Indian under the Indian Act has the right to enter and remain in Canada in accordance with this Act, and an officer shall allow the person to enter Canada if satisfied following an examination on their entry that the person is a citizen or registered Indian.

Right of entry of permanent residents

(2)An officer shall allow a permanent resident to enter Canada if satisfied following an examination on their entry that they have that status.

In Practice
Official Source: Justice Canada: IRPA s. 19 (authoritative, may differ from this display)
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