Canada tightens asylum rules: Govt passes new law to strengthen asylum rules, immigration system; Indians to get affected

Canada tightens asylum rules: The Canadian government has introduced a new law to make its asylum and immigration rules stricter. This law allows authorities to stop, pause, or cancel immigration applications if needed. It also gives them the power to cancel or change documents like work permits, study permits, visas, and even permanent residency, and to set new conditions for temporary residents.

The law, called the Immigration System and Borders Act (Bill C-12), came into effect on March 26. Its aim is to make immigration systems stronger and help control borders, fight organized crime, illegal drugs like fentanyl, and illegal money activities.

Under this law, the central government can now share immigration-related information with provinces and territories to improve coordination and services. However, this will be done through proper agreements and privacy rules will be followed.

The government can also slow down or limit processing of some applications in special situations, such as security concerns, public health risks, or technical issues.

Indian citizens form the largest group of people seeking asylum in Canada. Since 2012, over 45,000 claims have been made, and nearly 9,770 claims were filed in just the first half of last year. Many of these cases are said to come from Punjab and are often linked to political or safety concerns.

Under the new rules, if someone applies for asylum more than one year after first entering Canada (after June 24, 2020), their case will usually not be sent for a full hearing. Also, people who cross the Canada–US land border illegally and apply after 14 days may not get a full hearing either.