Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC)
Statutory definition
Section 52(1) of the IRPA provides that a foreign national or permanent resident against whom a deportation order has been made may not return to Canada without written authorisation of the Minister. An ARC application is submitted with a visa or study/work permit application. The officer assessing the application considers the reasons for the original deportation, the applicant's conduct since deportation, the length of time elapsed, and the purpose of the proposed return.
Explanation
Obtaining an ARC is the only pathway back to Canada for a person against whom a deportation order was made. The ARC application is not a separate application — it is considered as part of any visa or permit application made by the deported person. Not all deported persons are eligible to apply for an ARC; security-related deportees face additional restrictions. The likelihood of ARC approval depends heavily on the seriousness of the grounds for deportation and the passage of time.