If the Canadian government paid for your deportation flight out of the country, you must repay this removal cost in full before Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will approve your Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC). The responsibility to cover these standardized federal removal fees falls entirely on the applicant.
Being removed from Canada is a highly stressful experience, and returning legally requires navigating complex federal rules. When the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) enforces a removal order, they often purchase the airline ticket to ensure the person leaves the country immediately. 💰 While this might seem like a free flight at the time, the Canadian government records this as a debt owed to the Crown.
If you wish to come back to Canada for work, study, or to visit family, you will likely need an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC). Before an immigration officer will even consider granting this authorization, federal law mandates that you reimburse the public purse. ⚠️ Understanding how to calculate and pay this debt is crucial. If you are confused about your removal status, checking our directory to find a knowledgeable immigration lawyer can help you clear your federal debt and submit a strong ARC application.
Step-by-Step Process for Repaying Deportation Costs in Canada
Applying for an ARC is an intricate process, and handling the repayment of your deportation flight requires strict adherence to IRCC and CBSA procedures. Here is how the repayment process generally unfolds. 📋
Step 1: Determining if an ARC is Required
First, you must verify the exact type of removal order you received. If you received a Departure Order and left within 30 days, you usually do not need an ARC. However, if you received a Deportation Order, or an Exclusion Order but want to return before the ban period expires, an ARC is mandatory. 🔍 Your lawyer can help you request your CBSA file to confirm your exact status.
Step 2: Determining Your Standardized Removal Fee
Under Canadian regulations, you must pay a standardized flat fee to cover your deportation costs, rather than the actual price of your flight. For removals executed on or after April 1, 2025, the government charges a flat fee of $3,905.28 CAD for unescorted removals, medical-escorted air removals, or non-air escorted removals. For standard escorted air removals, the flat fee is $13,098.96 CAD. You must confirm which fee category applies to your past removal before paying the Crown debt.
Step 3: Submitting the ARC Application
You cannot apply for an ARC by itself; it must be submitted alongside a primary application, such as a Visitor Visa (TRV), Work Permit, or Permanent Residence application. You will include a letter explaining why you need to return and acknowledging your willingness to repay the removal expenses. 💻 You must also pay the separate ARC processing fee at this time.
Step 4: Paying the Government Debt
If the IRCC officer believes your reasons for returning are compelling, they will send you a formal letter instructing you to pay the removal fees. You must follow their exact payment instructions, which usually involve an online federal portal or a certified cheque. 💳 Once the government confirms receipt of the funds, they will finalize the processing of your ARC and your accompanying visa.
How Much Does it Cost to Return on an ARC?
Returning to Canada after a deportation is an expensive endeavour, and applicants must budget for several different federal fees.
- ARC Processing Fee: The mandatory federal fee to process an Authorization to Return to Canada is currently $492.50 CAD.
- Standardized Removal Fees: If removed on or after April 1, 2025, you must pay either $3,905.28 CAD (for unescorted, medical air escort, or non-air escorted removals) or $13,098.96 CAD (for standard escorted air removals). (For older removals prior to April 1, 2025, the fee is either $899 CAD or $1,799 CAD depending on the country).
- Visa Application Fees: You must also pay the standard fee for the visa you are requesting, such as $100 CAD for a Visitor Visa.
- Legal Representation: Hiring an immigration lawyer to draft a compelling ARC submission generally costs between $2,500 and $5,000+ CAD.
How Long Does the ARC Process Take?
Patience is absolutely essential when dealing with ARC applications. Because these applications require a senior immigration officer to conduct a highly detailed risk assessment, there are no standard processing times. ⏱️ Generally, an ARC can take anywhere from 6 to 18 months to process. If you delay paying the removal costs when requested, or if your file requires a CBSA interview, the timeline will be extended significantly.
Removal Orders and ARC Requirements
| Order Type | Do I Need an ARC? | Must I Repay Flight Costs? |
|---|---|---|
| Departure Order | No, if you left Canada within 30 days and verified your departure. | Generally no, as you usually pay for your own flight. |
| Exclusion Order | Yes, if returning before the 1-year or 5-year ban expires. | Yes, if CBSA paid for your removal ticket. |
| Deportation Order | Yes. You are banned for life without an ARC. | Yes, any government expenses must be reimbursed. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if I cannot afford to repay the flight costs?
If you cannot afford to reimburse the Canadian government for your removal expenses, IRCC will not issue the Authorization to Return to Canada. The debt must be paid in full; there are generally no payment plans available for ARC approvals.
Do I have to pay if I was removed to the United States by car?
If CBSA removed you via a land border into the US on or after April 1, 2025, you are subject to the standardized flat removal fee of $3,905.28 CAD (covering unescorted or non-air escorted removals), in addition to the $492.50 CAD ARC processing fee.
Can my Canadian spouse pay the removal costs for me?
Yes. If you are being sponsored for Permanent Residence by a Canadian spouse, they can pay the removal debt on your behalf during the spousal sponsorship process to clear the way for your ARC.
Will IRCC refund my ARC fee if they refuse my application?
No. The $492.50 CAD fee is for the processing and assessment of your application. If the officer decides you are still a risk to Canada and refuses your ARC, the fee is entirely non-refundable.
Do I still owe the money if 10 years have passed?
Yes. Debts owed to the Crown for removal expenses do not simply expire over time. Whether it has been two years or fifteen years since your deportation, the flight cost must be repaid before you can legally re-enter Canada.
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