In a sweeping policy shift, the Canadian government has introduced a bill that would significantly overhaul immigration and asylum rules, drawing praise from border security advocates and sharp criticism from civil rights groups. The proposed Strong Borders Act, announced by Immigration Minister Lena Diab, aims to curb organized crime, restrict illegal drug and weapons trafficking, and restore what the government calls the “integrity” of Canada’s immigration system.
Among its key provisions, the bill would prevent individuals who have been in Canada for over a year from applying for asylum — a dramatic departure from the country’s traditionally inclusive stance toward refugees. It also proposes tighter restrictions on asylum seekers arriving from the United States under the Safe Third Country Agreement, giving them just 14 days to file a claim upon entry.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree noted that the law also responds to longstanding U.S. complaints about cross-border fentanyl smuggling and firearms trafficking, saying the legislation addresses “irritants for the U.S.” He confirmed he would be briefing U.S. border officials, adding that while the policy has bilateral implications, it is primarily focused on protecting Canada’s national interests.
The bill grants authorities expanded powers to open and inspect mail as part of criminal investigations and introduces new financial regulations — including restrictions on cash transactions over C$10,000 and on third-party cash deposits — to combat money laundering.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, who came to power in April on a platform focused on curbing what he described as “unsustainable” immigration levels, has emphasized the need for balance as the country grapples with a housing crisis and overloaded public services. Canada has experienced a surge in temporary foreign workers, international students, and asylum seekers in recent years, leading to a growing backlog in immigration processing.
Critics, including New Democratic Party MP Jenny Kwan, argue that the proposed law infringes on civil liberties and threatens Canada’s global reputation as a refuge for the vulnerable. Advocacy organizations such as the Migrant Rights Network have condemned the legislation, calling it “immoral” and warning it could open the door to widespread deportations and diminished refugee protections.
The bill, which spans 127 pages, marks one of the most extensive immigration reforms proposed in decades, and is expected to ignite a heated national debate in the weeks ahead.