CBSA Direction to Report: What Happens Next?
· Harjeet Arora, RCIC-IRB
A CBSA Direction to Report can signal that an enforcement file is moving forward. The first step is to identify exactly what document was issued, why CBSA requires attendance and whether a removal date or other enforcement step is involved.
Do not ignore the reporting date
Failure to attend a required CBSA appointment can create additional enforcement consequences. Keep the notice, passport requests, removal documents and prior immigration decisions together for review.
What CBSA may address
Depending on the file, CBSA may review identity and travel documents, removal arrangements, outstanding applications, PRRA eligibility, reporting conditions or other enforcement issues.
Direction to Report vs Direction to Leave
The terminology matters. A Direction to Report in an enforcement file should not be confused with a Direction to Leave Canada that can be issued in particular port-of-entry examination circumstances. The latter is not itself one of the three removal orders.
Possible remedies
A reporting notice does not itself tell you whether removal can be stopped. Review the underlying removal order, any PRRA rights, and whether a removal deferral request or other remedy is legally available.
FDI’s dedicated service page explains CBSA Direction to Report representation. For the wider enforcement context, see our guide to removal orders in Canada.
Before attending the CBSA appointment
Confirm the reporting location and time, preserve the notice and collect relevant immigration documents. If counsel has been retained, discuss representation and the purpose of attendance in advance. A Direction to Report is not, by itself, proof that removal will occur that day.
Book an enforcement consultation.
General information only. CBSA notices and timelines should be reviewed individually.