Deportation Defense Lawyers

Facing removal from Canada after a removal order, a CBSA call-in or an admissibility hearing notice? Below you can see who takes these files, their rates and open times, and book a consultation online. Deadlines are short, often days, so act now.

Removal order vs. deportation order: what's the difference?

“Removal order” is the umbrella term; a deportation order is one of three types. According to the CBSA:

• Departure order: leave within 30 days after it becomes enforceable and confirm your departure with the CBSA, or it automatically becomes a deportation order. If you comply, you may return later if you meet the entry requirements.
• Exclusion order: no return for one year (five for misrepresentation) without an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC).
• Deportation order: permanent bar on returning unless you obtain an ARC.

Who issues removal orders, and on what grounds

An officer who believes someone in Canada is inadmissible writes a report. Depending on the case, an officer makes the order, or the Immigration Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) decides after an admissibility hearing. Common grounds: criminality, misrepresentation and not complying with immigration law.

If a criminal record is involved, a Canadian record suspension can matter, but it does not automatically fix immigration consequences. A lawyer can tell you how it applies to you.

Options that may be available

What applies depends on your status and the grounds. None guarantees you can stay:

• Appeal: permanent residents, protected persons and permanent resident visa holders can generally appeal to the IRB's Immigration Appeal Division, within 30 days after receiving the order. Some grounds, including serious criminality as defined in the law, carry no appeal.
• Pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA): an assessment of the risk you face if returned. Apply within 15 days if the CBSA hands you the forms, 22 if mailed. If you made a refugee claim, see our asylum and refugee lawyers.
• Humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) application: a request for permanent residence on humanitarian grounds. It does not stop removal.
• Federal Court: judicial review starts with an application for leave, filed within 15 days for a decision made in Canada. A lawyer can also ask the Court to stay (pause) a removal.

Never miss a CBSA date. If you skip a removal interview or removal date, the CBSA can issue a Canada-wide arrest warrant and you may be detained.

When to get a lawyer

• As soon as you receive a report, a removal order or a notice to appear.
• Before any CBSA interview or removal date.
• If you are not a citizen and face criminal charges.
• For other files, see our immigration lawyers.

How much does a deportation defense lawyer cost?

There is no set price. Lawyers may bill hourly or a fixed fee for a step such as an appeal or a PRRA. On JustiConnect you see each lawyer's rates before you book.

Choosing a deportation defense lawyer

• Speed: check open times against your deadline.
• Experience: ask about files before the IRB and the Federal Court.
• Bring: the order, every letter from the CBSA, IRCC or IRB, your passport and immigration papers, court documents and proof of your ties to Canada.
• Bar: every lawyer practising in Quebec must be a member of the Barreau du Québec. More in our guide to choosing a lawyer.

Frequently asked questions

Is Canada deporting permanent residents?

Permanent residents can be removed. A permanent resident loses that status when a removal order against them comes into force. See also our permanent residency lawyers.

How do I know if I have a removal order?

It is a written decision from an officer or the IRB. A CBSA removal interview or removal date usually means it is enforceable. Unsure? Bring every paper you have to a lawyer.

Does an H&C application stop my removal?

No. IRCC states it does not prevent or delay removal.

Pick a lawyer from the list and book directly, or see every lawyer's open times.