Dual intent
Statutory definition
Section 22(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act provides: "An intention by a foreign national to become a permanent resident does not preclude them from becoming a temporary resident if the officer is satisfied that they will leave Canada by the end of the period authorised for their stay." This provision expressly codifies dual intent as a permissible state of mind for temporary resident applicants.
Explanation
Dual intent is a uniquely Canadian immigration concept. Unlike some other jurisdictions that treat an intention to immigrate as disqualifying for temporary entry, Canada expressly permits dual intent under s 22(2). The officer must still be satisfied that the applicant will comply with the terms of the temporary status and leave if required — but the mere existence of an immigration application does not make temporary entry inadmissible. This is practically important for Express Entry candidates who continue to visit or work in Canada while awaiting their ITA.