The federal government has released new details on its proposed Strong Borders Act, offering clarity amid mounting concerns that the bill represents a sharp immigration crackdown. While Ottawa insists the Act is about protecting the integrity of Canada’s immigration and asylum systems, critics have raised questions about its broader implications for fairness and transparency.
On This Page, You Will Find:
- What the Strong Borders Act allows the government to do
- How asylum processing will change
- What new ineligibility rules mean
- How personal data will be shared
- The government’s justification and critics’ concerns
Set against a backdrop of rising global migration pressures and public scrutiny over border security, the legislation is being positioned as a balance between compassion and control. The government says it aims to make Canada’s system more efficient, more resilient to abuse, and better aligned with national interests.
Aimed at “Public Interest” – But What Does That Mean?
One of the most controversial aspects of the Strong Borders Act is a proposed power that would allow the federal government to suspend, cancel, or change immigration documents – including visas, study permits, and work permits – if deemed in the public interest.
The government has stated that this authority would not apply to asylum claims. Instead, it would target circumstances involving national security, health risks, abuse of public programs, or large-scale emergencies. Critics say the lack of a precise definition of “public interest” gives too much discretion to the government.
The government maintains that any such actions would be taken by the Governor in Council (Cabinet and Governor General) and would not immediately revoke someone’s status as a resident.
Tighter Domestic Information Sharing
The Act would also strengthen information sharing between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and provincial or territorial governments. The proposed changes would make this sharing more systematic, rather than case-by-case.
The aim is to help governments confirm identities, detect fraud, and better coordinate service delivery. Officials insist the changes will comply with existing privacy laws and that no client information will be shared with foreign entities without strict safeguards, including IRCC consent and adherence to Canada’s anti-mistreatment obligations.
Changes to Asylum Processing
Another key section of the bill outlines changes to how asylum claims are handled. The new rules would:
- Standardise the process across all ports of entry and IRCC offices
- Send completed claims directly to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) for faster decisions
- Require claimants to remain in Canada during the decision process
- Speed up voluntary departures and remove inactive cases
- Provide support for vulnerable claimants, including minors
These reforms aim to speed up legitimate claims and clear backlogs, while maintaining access to protection for those genuinely in need.
New Restrictions on Eligibility
Two new “ineligibility” provisions have sparked some of the strongest reactions from advocacy groups.
- People who make asylum claims more than a year after arriving in Canada (post-June 24, 2020) would no longer have their claims referred to the IRB.
- Irregular border crossers entering Canada from the U.S. between official ports of entry would also be ineligible if they make a claim more than 14 days after arrival.
While these individuals may still apply for a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA), their claims would not follow the full IRB refugee process. The government says this will reduce abuse of the system and ease pressure on the IRB’s caseload.
Balancing Control With Compassion
Ottawa continues to emphasise that Canada remains committed to welcoming newcomers and providing protection to refugees. But the Strong Borders Act is designed to prevent the misuse of Canada’s immigration and asylum systems and respond more quickly to security, health, and humanitarian crises.
Still, the proposed law faces criticism for expanding discretionary powers without offering sufficient clarity or oversight. Human rights advocates argue that it may disproportionately impact vulnerable groups, especially those fleeing danger or in precarious legal situations.
As the legislation moves through Parliament, these debates are expected to continue.
FAQ
What is the Strong Borders Act in Canada?
The Strong Borders Act is a proposed law that would give the federal government new powers to manage immigration documents, streamline asylum processing, and improve information sharing across jurisdictions.
Can the government now cancel someone’s immigration status under this Act?
No. The Act allows changes to immigration documents like visas or permits, but it does not automatically remove someone’s status as a permanent or temporary resident.
Will asylum claims be affected by the new rules?
Yes. Some asylum claims may be deemed ineligible – such as claims made more than a year after arrival or after irregular entry from the U.S. These claims would not be referred to the IRB.
What safeguards are in place for sharing personal information?
All data-sharing must comply with Canadian privacy laws and only be used for lawful purposes. Partners must have legal authority to collect this information and must follow strict agreements.
Is the Act already in force?
No. As of June 2025, the Act is still being debated in Parliament. If passed, it would apply to claims made on or after June 3, 2025, but many provisions would require regulatory implementation.
