Agree with all the points here. However, I think the perception of care required during pregnancy is subjective. IRCC does consider that as a valid reason for an exemption for travel under compassionate grounds. This is part of one of the replies I received from IRCC.There are limited wheelchairs and should only be requested if people have mobility issues so those with actual health issues can secure a wheelchair. There are plenty of airport employees that are happy to help direct any first time travelers and who speak many languages.
Would add that this family seems have gotten lucky but the majority of IRCC agents do not consider pregnancy to fall under compassionate visas. This is really for emergency situations like funerals, sudden health issues, imminent death, etc. Others may also get lucky as well but it should not be expected since there are many other parents who have been denied TRVs or been told that this isn't considered an urgent request.
Foreign nationals seeking an exemption from the travel restrictions on compassionate grounds will be required to submit a request to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to receive authorization for one of the following reasons:
- to attend to the death of, or provide support to, a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, temporary resident, or protected person who is residing in Canada and who is deemed to be critically ill by a health-care professional entitled under the laws of a province to provide health services in the province
- to provide care for a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, temporary resident, or protected person residing in Canada who is deemed by a health-care professional entitled under the laws of a province to provide health services in the province to have a medical reason as to why they require support (for example, assisting in a birth, providing elder care, supporting someone during pregnancy)
- to attend a funeral or end of life ceremony of a person who resided in Canada