✈️
Last verified: March 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca← Back to IRPA ExplorerLast verified: March 2026 · Source: justice.gc.ca
PART 1: Immigration to CanadaDIVISION 6: Detention and Release
§55

Arrest and detention without warrant

Arrest and detention without warrant

Detention
🍁 In Simple Terms

An officer may arrest and detain a foreign national without a warrant if they believe on reasonable grounds the person is inadmissible and poses a flight risk or danger to the public.

Affects: Persons subject to removal or detention
Legal Text — IRPA Section 55

(1)An officer may issue a warrant for the arrest and detention of a permanent resident or a foreign national who the officer has reasonable grounds to believe is inadmissible and is a danger to the public or is unlikely to appear for examination, for an admissibility hearing, for removal from Canada or at a proceeding that could lead to the making of a removal order by the Minister under subsection 44(2).

Arrest and detention without warrant

(2)An officer may, without a warrant, arrest and detain a foreign national, other than a protected person,(a) who the officer has reasonable grounds to believe is inadmissible and is a danger to the public or is unlikely to appear for examination, an admissibility hearing, removal from Canada, or at a proceeding that could lead to the making of a removal order by the Minister under subsection 44(2); or

(b)if the officer is not satisfied of the identity of the foreign national in the course of any procedure under this Act.

Cross-References
Explore More Sections
Browse all 309 sections of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
Explore More Sections