Law Summary

Introduction

This advisory issued by the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa, Canada, outlines the requirements for Filipino nationals, including their family members, who intend to travel to Canada for work or study. It emphasizes the necessity of submitting police clearances as mandated by Canadian immigration authorities.

Requirement for Police Clearances

• Legal Principle: Filipino nationals traveling to Canada must secure a police clearance from each country of last employment or residency.

• Key Definitions:

  • Police Clearance: An official document certifying that an individual has no criminal record in the specified country of residence or employment.

• Important Requirements:

  • Police clearances are required from countries where the individual has resided for the last six (6) months or more in succession.
  • This requirement applies to all Filipino nationals over 18 years old, including family members.

• Relevant Timeframes:

  • The advisory was adopted on March 26, 2015, and filed on May 28, 2015.
  • Filipinos coming from third countries, such as those in the Middle East, are advised to secure their police clearances before their arrival in Canada.

Procedural Guidance

• Procedure:

  • Individuals must obtain their police clearances from the relevant authorities in the country of last employment or residency.
  • This document is a basic requirement for the processing of residency by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

• Penalties/Consequences:

  • Failure to provide the required police clearance could result in delays or denial of residency applications by CIC.

Cross-References

• The advisory references the requirements set forth by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), which governs the immigration process for individuals seeking entry into Canada.

Key Takeaways

• All Filipino nationals over 18 years old traveling to Canada for work or study must submit police clearances from their last country of residence.
• Clearances must be secured from each country where the individual has lived for six months or more.
• It is crucial to obtain these documents prior to arrival in Canada to avoid immigration issues.
• Non-compliance with this requirement may lead to application delays or denials by Canadian authorities.