Athletes, Coaches, Judges, Referees and their Essential Personnel
A criminal record or conviction, such as a DUI, will generally bar you from entering Canada unless a temporary waiver, called a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP), can be obtained at the border (or consulate).
Occasionally, an athlete at a world class level, including his personal trainer or other essential crew members, is unable to enter Canada due to a misdemeanor or felony conviction.
Members of professional teams and their essential staff, including the NHL/AHL, MLB, NBA, NFL, MLS, PGA, WWE, NASCAR, Formula 1, and the North America Soccer League, will generally qualify for a special waiver.
Our firm proudly serves both amateur and professional athletes for their scheduled event or for the entire season in Canada. This includes the preparation of work permit exemption letters as well as a detailed point-of-entry packet for the waiver (Temporary Resident Permit).
Most point-of-entry waivers can be prepared within 48 hours; subject to the approval by the lead practitioner after a consultation with the athlete, his agent, or attorney.
When professionally prepared, a TRP may be adjudicated within 30 days. If your travel is urgent, a TRP may be granted directly at the land entry or airport.
For information about our Athletic Work Permit or Admissibility packets, contact us at 888-827-6605 to schedule an appointment.
Firm Services for Athletes and their Essential Personnel:
- Work Permit-Exempt Packets for Presentation Upon Arrival (if requested)
- Criminality Waivers – Point-of-Entry Packets
- Criminality Waivers – Rush Service (24- to 48-hours)
- Streamlined Rehabilitation (where applicable)
- Criminal Rehabilitation (“Pardon”)
To download our Admissibility Brochure designed for Athletes, Coaches, Judges, Referees and their Essential Personnel, click here.
