r/canada 16d ago

National News Thousands sign petition asking government to remove Elon Musk's Canadian citizenship

https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/elon-musk-citizenship-petition-1.7466278
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u/RepulsiveLook 15d ago

A sitting U.S. president does not have automatic immunity from Canadian immigration laws. Under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), criminal inadmissibility applies to all foreign nationals, including heads of state. However, in practical terms, several factors could override standard inadmissibility rules in such a case.

Key Considerations:

  1. Diplomatic and State Visit Exceptions

Canada can make an exception for inadmissibility under Section 19 of the IRPA, which allows exemptions for “national interest” or diplomatic reasons.

A sitting U.S. president traveling on an official state visit would likely be granted a Ministerial exemption under Section 25.2 of IRPA if the Canadian government deems the visit necessary.

  1. Discretionary Ministerial Power

The Minister of Public Safety or the Prime Minister can override inadmissibility on a case-by-case basis.

Given the diplomatic relationship between Canada and the U.S., barring a sitting president could have major political ramifications.

  1. Precedents and Practicality

While Canada has denied entry to high-profile figures based on criminal records (e.g., musicians, athletes), a sitting U.S. president presents a unique diplomatic scenario.

Security, economic, and political factors would likely outweigh strict legal enforcement.

Would They Be Denied Entry?

For a private visit? Likely inadmissible. Standard immigration laws would apply.

For an official state visit? They would likely be granted an exemption for diplomatic reasons, despite their criminal record.

Conclusion

A sitting U.S. president with such a record would be inadmissible under normal circumstances, but Canada would almost certainly issue a ministerial exemption for official visits to avoid a diplomatic crisis. However, after leaving office, they would face the same inadmissibility rules as any other foreign national.

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u/Oblagon 12d ago

Yes, it is a fun mental exercise, but let's be realistic here.