Canada brings biggest immigration reforms in decades

Canada has introduced sweeping changes to its immigration system after a new law came into force on March 26, 2026. The legislation, known as Bill C-12, gives the federal government stronger authority over immigration decisions and border control measures.

Officials say the law aims to protect border security and improve how the immigration system works. The changes will affect applicants, temporary residents, and asylum seekers across the country.

Government gains wider control
The new law gives the federal cabinet broad powers to manage immigration processes. Leaders can now stop accepting applications, pause processing, or cancel applications altogether when needed.

They can also cancel or change immigration documents such as work permits, study permits, visas, and permanent resident documents. In addition, they can set or adjust conditions for people staying in Canada on a temporary basis.

The government can use these powers when it believes action serves the public interest. This includes situations involving fraud, safety concerns, health risks, or administrative mistakes.

At the same time, the immigration minister must report to Parliament on how these powers affect people, ensuring some level of oversight.

New rules for asylum seekers
The law also introduces stricter rules for people seeking protection in Canada. It creates two new reasons to reject asylum claims.

Officials will no longer accept claims made more than one year after a person enters Canada. They will also reject claims from people who cross the Canada–United States border at unofficial entry points.

These changes apply to claims made on or after June 3, 2025. However, the one-year limit applies only to people who arrived after June 24, 2020.

People whose claims do not qualify under these rules cannot present their case to the Immigration and Refugee Board. Still, they may request a risk assessment before removal to determine if they face danger in their home country.

The government must also report how many claims it rejects under the new time limit and track related risk assessments.

For cases that remain eligible, officials will close claims if applicants return to the country they left. Authorities will also stop reviewing cases if the person is no longer in Canada.

More data sharing allowed
The law allows immigration officials to share personal information with other government departments and public agencies. With approval, these groups may also share that information with foreign partners.

The shared details may include identity information, immigration status, and records of official documents.

Lawmakers had proposed excluding citizens and permanent residents from these rules, but they removed that change before final approval.

Review planned in five years
The government has agreed to review the law after five years. A parliamentary committee will study its impact and suggest any needed changes.

Officials say the new measures mark one of the most significant updates to Canada’s immigration system in recent years.