Canada’s proposed immigration reform legislation is approaching a decisive moment in Parliament. After being reviewed by a key Senate committee, the bill has moved forward without further changes and is now set for its final debate and vote in the upper chamber.
If adopted in its current version, the legislation will introduce expanded federal authority over immigration decision-making while significantly tightening rules around refugee claims.
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Expanded Federal Authority Over Immigration Decisions
A central feature of the bill is the transfer of broader discretionary powers to the federal executive, specifically the Governor in Council, acting on Cabinet advice.
The proposed law would allow the government to:
- Revoke or suspend immigration documents such as work permits, study permits, and permanent resident visas
- Pause or discontinue the processing of certain immigration applications
- Introduce additional conditions for temporary residents
These powers could only be used when deemed necessary for reasons tied to the public interest. However, previous amendments passed by the House of Commons have narrowed that definition to specific concerns such as fraud, administrative errors, public health, public safety, and national security.
The legislation also obliges the immigration minister to report to Parliament after using these authorities, detailing the reasoning and expected consequences of any action taken.
Diverging Views Within the Senate
While the Senate’s Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs approved the bill without amendments, another committee offered strong criticism.
The Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology recommended stripping out several major elements, including the expanded executive powers, the proposed asylum reforms, and provisions enabling broader information sharing by immigration authorities.
Because it was not the primary reviewing committee, its recommendations are advisory and do not automatically alter the bill.
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Major Changes to Refugee Eligibility
The legislation proposes significant changes to Canada’s refugee protection framework.
Under the new rules, individuals who entered Canada after June 24, 2020, and waited more than one year to file a refugee claim would be deemed ineligible. The bill also seeks to disqualify those who crossed the Canada–U.S. land border at locations other than official ports of entry.
Currently, individuals who cross irregularly may still pursue refugee protection if they wait at least 14 days before filing a claim. The proposed reform would eliminate that pathway.
If passed, the new restrictions would apply retroactively to claims submitted after the bill’s introduction, though earlier claims would not be reopened.
Earlier Safeguards Added by the House
The House of Commons amended the bill in late 2025 to introduce accountability measures. These changes placed limits on how and when executive powers could be exercised and mandated parliamentary reporting for transparency.
The amendments were designed to ensure that any extraordinary immigration measures remain subject to oversight.
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Broader Concerns: Backlogs and Fraud
Although no textual amendments were added by the primary Senate committee, members attached formal observations. They urged the federal government to strengthen the capacity of the immigration department, reduce application backlogs, and enhance productivity.
The committee also highlighted the need for stricter enforcement against fraudulent immigration consultants who exploit applicants.
Final Steps Before Becoming Law
For the bill to take effect, it must pass third reading in the Senate in the same form already approved by the House of Commons. If no further amendments are introduced, it will then proceed directly to royal assent.
With its final Senate vote approaching, the legislation stands poised to redefine how Canada manages immigration programs and refugee claims, while reinforcing executive authority alongside new oversight requirements.
