What happens if I do not show up for a scheduled removal from Canada?
Failing to appear for a scheduled removal is treated as non-compliance with a removal order, and it has serious consequences. CBSA can issue a warrant for arrest and detain the person once located. Non-compliance can also support a new, independent finding of inadmissibility, separate from whatever grounds led to the original removal order, which can make the person's overall situation harder to resolve later.
Depending on the type of order already in place, failing to leave as required can also cause it to escalate. A departure order that is not confirmed within its required timeframe, for example, automatically becomes a deportation order, which carries a much more serious, longer-term bar on returning to Canada. Missing a scheduled removal is also likely to be held against the person in any future request for discretionary relief, since it undermines an argument that they intend to comply with Canadian immigration law.
Anyone unable to comply with a removal date for a genuine, documented reason should raise it with CBSA before the date, in writing, rather than simply not appearing.
Key takeaways
- Missing a scheduled removal is treated as non-compliance and can lead to arrest and detention.
- It can support a fresh, independent inadmissibility finding on top of the original grounds for removal.
- Some removal orders automatically escalate to a more serious type if the deadline is missed.
- Raise genuine problems with CBSA in writing before the date, not by simply failing to appear.