How to Complete the Solemn Declaration for Residents of Canada Returning from Compassionate Travel
If you’re a Canadian resident who is flying home to Canada after travelling abroad for compassionate reasons, you can now request an exemption from the three-night hotel stopover requirement from the Government of Canada. This blog post explains how you can apply for an exemption by completing the Solemn Declaration for Residents of Canada Returning from Compassionate Travel.
How do I qualify for an exemption from the mandatory hotel stopover?
To apply for an exemption, you must live in Canada and be a:
Canadian Citizen
Permanent resident
Person registered under the Indian Act
Temporary resident, or
Protected person
You must have left Canada for compassionate travel reasons:
Be present during the final moments of life for an immediate or extended family member
Provide support to an immediate or extended family member who is critically ill
Provide care to an immediate or extended family member who requires support for a medical reason, or
Attend a funeral or end-of-life ceremony for a member of your immediate or extended family
How do I apply for an exemption from the mandatory hotel stopover?
First, you must complete the solemn declaration for residents returning from compassionate travel before a notary public or commissioner of oaths.
Second, you must collect your supporting documentation, which includes either a proof of required care or a proof of death.
Third, you submit your request for an exemption online through the Government of Canada’s website.
You must apply for the exemption before you return to Canada. Applications will not be processed upon arrival in Canada.
What is the Solemn Declaration for Residents Returning from Compassionate Travel?
The Solemn Declaration for Residents Returning from Compassionate Travel is a document that sets out the circumstances of your travel outside of Canada and information about your return to Canada.
How do I complete the Solemn Declaration?
To complete the solemn declaration, you must meet with a notary public or commissioner of oaths to swear the declaration. “Swearing the declaration” means you swear that the facts set out in the declaration are true, complete and accurate. You sign the declaration in the presence of the notary or commissioner, and then the notary or commissioner signs the declaration.
Where can I get a copy of the Solemn Declaration for Residents Returning from Compassionate Travel?
You can get a copy of the solemn declaration on the Government of Canada website. Please note that you will require Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and complete the solemn declaration. You can download Adobe Acrobat for free from the Adobe website.
Can Downtown Notary notarize my solemn declaration?
Yes! We can help you complete your solemn declaration at one of our convenient in-person locations.
Already outside of Canada? You can use Notarize.ca’s online notary services to easily and quickly complete the Solemn Declaration for Residents of Canada Returning From Compassionate Travel.
This is how it works:
Create your secure account and book your appointment
Meet with your notary professional by video conference
Electronically sign the solemn declaration and download the completed document
The cost for one notarized solemn declaration is $35.00 plus HST.
Questions?
If you have questions about how to apply for an exemption from the mandatory hotel stopover, visit the Government of Canada’s web page, Apply for a hotel stopover exemption for residents of Canada returning from compassionate travel: Requirements.
If you have questions about notary services, contact us at info@downtown-notary.ca or call us at 647-799-3531.
This blog post is for your information only. It does not, and is not intended to, provide any legal advice. If you have questions about your rights to enter Canada during COVID-19, we recommend that you consult with a lawyer.
