Do I need special permission to return to Canada after being deported?

Yes. A deportation order is the most serious of the three removal orders, and it does not simply expire after a certain number of years. Anyone removed under a deportation order must apply for, and be granted, an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC) before they can lawfully come back, regardless of how much time has passed since they left.

This is different from a departure order, which is generally satisfied once the person leaves and confirms their departure, or an exclusion order, which bars return for a set period but does not require this specific standing authorization. With a deportation order, the requirement does not fade with time on its own; the person remains inadmissible on this basis until an ARC is applied for and specifically granted.

Attempting to enter Canada without the required authorization is itself a serious problem, since it can lead to further enforcement action and undermine any later attempt to obtain permission properly. Anyone in this situation should apply for the authorization well before making any travel plans, rather than assuming enough time has simply passed.