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Regulation 2 — Interpretation — general rules

Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations r 2 Canada Compilation: 2026-03-17 Verified: 2026-05-23

Text of provision

The definitions in this section apply in these Regulations.

Plain English

Regulation 2 provides general interpretive rules for reading the IRPR. It confirms that terms defined in IRPA carry the same meaning in the Regulations unless a Regulation specifically defines them differently. It also addresses how periods of time are calculated and how references to forms and documents are to be construed.

Practical effect

Where a term is defined in both IRPA and the IRPR, the Regulation definition prevails within the Regulations context. This matters for terms like "dependent child" and "family class member" where the Regulation may elaborate on or restrict the Act's general definition. Practitioners should always check both the IRPA definition and any applicable IRPR definition when assessing eligibility.

Information only. Nothing on this page is immigration advice or legal advice. Only an authorised representative (RCIC or immigration lawyer) may give immigration advice in Canada.

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