Please read below
How to unite with an immediate family member who is in Canada temporarily
Who is an immediate family member
An
immediate family member is defined as a
If you’re travelling to Canada from the US
If you’re travelling from the US to reunite with an immediate family member who is in Canada temporarily, you must provide evidence that your travel is non-discretionary, such as to live with your spouse, common-law partner or family member.
You do not need written authorization from IRCC if travelling to Canada from the US.
If you’re travelling to Canada from a country other than the US
If you’re travelling from a country other than the US, you must have written authorization from IRCC to fly to Canada.
The written authorization is a one-time use authorization confirming that you’re exempt from the travel restrictions. It’s valid only for the period needed to travel.
You should not book a flight to Canada until you get your written authorization.
Find out how to request a written authorization.
To board your flight to Canada
You need
- a valid visitor visa or eTA
- a valid passport
- to tell the airline that you’re exempt from the travel restrictions
- to show an immigration officer that you’re coming for a non-discretionary purpose, such as to live with your spouse, common-law partner or family member
- You’ll be refused an authorization if an officer finds that you’re travelling for an optional or discretionary purpose, such as for tourism, entertainment or recreation.
- to have your health checked by airline officials to confirm that you don’t have symptoms of COVID-19, including a fever, a cough and difficulty breathing
- Anyone showing symptoms will not be allowed to board a flight to Canada.
How to request a written authorization from IRCC
If you have a valid visitor visa or an application in progress
Follow the instructions for
What to do if you’ve already applied for a visitor visa. We’ll assess your reasons for travel and make a decision on your written authorization.
Remember to submit evidence to show you’re eligible to travel at this time.