With marijuana (cannabis) now legally available across Canada, new laws and penalties are also implemented to regulate this. New penalties are in effect on December 18, 2018 and will affect individuals who drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including cannabis) or commit cannabis related crimes.
Those who are permanent or temporary residents have further penalties that may find them inadmissible to Canada for serious criminality. Permanent residents may lose their status and have to leave Canada. Those who lose their status will not be able to return unless there is written authorization from an immigration officer. Temporary residents, visitors or international students may not be able to come or stay in Canada, including to visit, study or work temporarily. For more information please see the pdf files below.
It is important to understand the consequences and limitations of our new cannabis related laws as it can result in detrimental penalties, especially for permanent and temporary residents.
