New bill would rein in asylum claims

 A newly introduced piece of legislation in Canada, Bill C-2, An Act respecting certain measures relating to the security of the border between Canada and the United States and respecting other related security measures, could significantly alter the landscape for asylum seekers if it becomes law. The bill proposes that foreign nationals who entered Canada after June 24, 2020, would be ineligible to apply for refugee protection if they file their claim more than one year after their entry date. Additionally, it would bar individuals from making refugee claims if they crossed the Canada-US land border outside a designated port of entry. Under current law, such claimants can still be eligible if they apply at least 14 days after entering the country. Notably, any refugee claims made before the bill’s introduction would not be affected by these new eligibility rules, which are set to apply retroactively to claims made after the bill was tabled.

Beyond these changes, Bill C-2 also grants the Governor in Council broad authority in immigration matters when deemed in the public interest. These powers include the ability to stop certain immigration applications from being processed, suspend or terminate processing of other applications, and alter or revoke immigration documents. The bill further expands the government’s ability to compel individuals to appear for immigration examinations and increases the permissible sharing of personal information with other government departments.

The bill had its first reading in Parliament on June 3, 2025. For it to become law, it must pass three readings in both the House of Commons and the Senate, followed by royal assent. As this development unfolds, more updates are expected.


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