When it comes to entering Canada as a temporary resident, foreign nationals may receive a Port of Entry (POE) letter, a vital document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These letters serve as authorization for entry and are specifically provided to individuals approved for certain temporary resident permits or visas.
POE letters are typically granted to individuals approved for one of three types of permits or visas:
It is important to note that only applicants who applied online and provided their email address during the application process will receive a POE letter. Visitors to Canada and other temporary resident applicants do not require, nor will they receive a POE letter.
Upon issuance, a POE letter confirms the identity of the recipient and authorizes entry into Canada. This document provides essential information to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to facilitate the issuance of the relevant permit upon entry.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) emphasizes that lacking a POE letter upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry can result in not obtaining the necessary permit.
POE letters are valid for the duration requested for the temporary resident's work permit, super visa, or study permit. The validity period is specified in the letter itself under the "permit validity" section. It is crucial to adhere to this validity date, as failure to enter Canada before it expires may necessitate a new application.
Participants in the International Experience Canada (IEC) program should be aware that their POE letters are typically valid for 12 months. However, for those who undergo a medical exam, the validity period is either 12 months or until the expiration of their medical exam, whichever comes first.
Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry, temporary residents with a POE letter must inform immigration officers about their approved application. They can present either a printed or electronic copy of the letter, or the visitor visa in their passport.
In the unfortunate event of losing, damaging, or deleting a POE letter, applicants can request a resend through IRCC's webform. Resent letters are typically delivered through the applicant's IRCC account.
Temporary residents unable to access their original application in their IRCC account should inform IRCC through the web form.
In summary, POE letters play a crucial role in facilitating the entry of temporary residents into Canada. Understanding their purpose, validity, and usage is essential for a smooth entry process.
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