Admissibility Hearings and Detention Reviews — Your Representation Options
Admissibility hearings are held when immigration authorities determine you may be inadmissible to Canada (security, health, criminal history, etc.). An RCIC-IRB can represent you and argue why you should be admitted despite the concerns.
What Are Admissibility Hearings?
An admissibility hearing is held when an immigration officer believes you are "inadmissible" to Canada — meaning you do not meet the requirements or are considered a risk.
Grounds of Inadmissibility
- Security: Terrorism, espionage, organized crime
- Criminality: Serious crimes in your country of origin
- Human/international rights: War crimes, crimes against humanity
- Health: Likely to be a burden on healthcare (rare)
- Misrepresentation: False information on your application
- Non-compliance: Failure to follow immigration law
Can an RCIC-IRB Represent You?
Yes. An RCIC-IRB (L3) can represent you at an admissibility hearing and argue why you should not be deemed inadmissible.
What Your RCIC-IRB Can Do
- Present evidence challenging the allegations
- Call witnesses to testify on your behalf
- Cross-examine the officer's evidence
- Make legal arguments about the decision-maker's jurisdiction
- Lodge an appeal if the hearing is dismissed
Detention Reviews
If you are detained after an admissibility hearing, you have the right to a review. An RCIC-IRB can represent you at detention reviews and argue for your release on conditions.
What Happens If You're Found Inadmissible
- You cannot become a permanent resident
- You cannot work or study in Canada legally
- You may be subject to a deportation order
- Limited appeal options exist (depends on grounds)
Cost and Timeline
Typical RCIC-IRB fee: $5,000–$10,000+ for admissibility/detention cases. High complexity cases cost more. Act quickly — timelines are tight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an RCIC-IRB represent me at an admissibility hearing?
Yes. RCIC-IRB (L3) holders can represent you and present arguments, evidence, and witness testimony at admissibility hearings.
What happens at an admissibility hearing?
An immigration officer presents evidence why they believe you are inadmissible. Your representative responds with counterarguments and evidence. The decision-maker determines if you are admissible.
What grounds of inadmissibility exist?
Security concerns, criminal convictions, health conditions affecting public health, misrepresentation, failure to comply with immigration law. Your representative will advise on your specific situation.
Can I appeal an admissibility decision?
Limited appeal options exist depending on the grounds of inadmissibility. Your RCIC-IRB representative will advise if an appeal is possible.