Canada has approved major changes to its immigration and border security laws under Bill C-12, introducing stricter rules for visa applications, permanent residency, and asylum claims.
According to information issued by Pakistan’s Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment, the legislation, titled the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, introduces reforms in four major areas that could affect foreign workers, international students, permanent residency applicants, and refugees.
Under the new law, the Canadian government can temporarily suspend the acceptance or processing of applications for work permits, study permits, temporary resident visas, electronic travel authorizations (eTAs), and permanent residency (PR) on public interest grounds.
Immigration authorities have also been given legal powers to suspend or cancel previously issued visas and immigration documents over concerns related to national security, fraud, or the integrity of the immigration system.
The changes also introduce stricter eligibility requirements and deadlines for people seeking asylum in Canada.
Individuals who entered the country after June 24, 2020, must submit their asylum claims within one year of arrival. Applications filed after this deadline may be declared ineligible for referral to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
Similarly, people entering Canada from the United States through unofficial land border crossings must apply for asylum within 14 days. Those who miss the deadline may not have their cases referred to the IRB for consideration.
The new rules also allow asylum claims to be considered abandoned or withdrawn if applicants return to their home countries, fail to attend required immigration interviews, or do not provide requested documents.
Another major change allows Canadian government departments and agencies to share applicants’ personal information, including passport details and immigration status, to identify suspected fraud, misrepresentation, and misuse of the immigration system.
The reforms tighten Canada’s immigration and refugee framework by expanding government oversight and introducing stricter conditions for individuals seeking entry or protection in the country.
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