Canada tightens immigration, asylum rules against Nigerians, others

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The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced sweeping changes to the country’s immigration and asylum system, introducing stricter rules that will affect Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking entry or protection.

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The measures follow the passage of Bill C-12, also known as the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, which received royal assent on March 26, 2026.

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According to details published on IRCC’s website, the new law introduces tighter eligibility criteria for asylum seekers, a redesigned application process, expanded data-sharing powers, and increased authority over immigration documents.

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Under the revised framework, asylum claims filed more than one year after an individual’s first entry into Canada after June 24, 2020, will no longer be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board. Similarly, claims made by individuals who cross into Canada between official ports of entry along the Canada–United States land border and file after 14 days will also be deemed ineligible.

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Authorities said the changes are aimed at reducing pressure on the asylum system, closing loopholes, and discouraging misuse of refugee pathways as alternatives to standard immigration routes.

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However, affected individuals may still apply for a pre-removal risk assessment to ensure they are not returned to countries where they could face persecution or harm. Special considerations will also be extended to vulnerable groups, including unaccompanied minors.

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Officials clarified that the existing Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States remains unchanged. Under this arrangement, most asylum seekers arriving at official land crossings—or within 14 days of irregular entry—will continue to be returned to the U.S. unless they qualify for specific exemptions.

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In addition, Canada plans to modernise its asylum system by introducing a faster, digital application process. Authorities said only complete and “schedule-ready” claims will proceed for adjudication, while cases may be treated as abandoned if applicants leave the country before a decision is reached. Removal orders will also take effect immediately upon withdrawal of a claim.

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The legislation further grants the government expanded powers to share applicants’ personal information across federal, provincial, and territorial institutions, subject to privacy safeguards. However, sub-national authorities are prohibited from sharing such data with foreign governments without federal approval.

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New provisions also empower the government to cancel, suspend, or modify visas, work permits, and study permits in response to fraud, public health risks, administrative issues, or national security concerns. Such actions will require the Governor in Council’s approval and must be publicly reported.

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Officials say the reforms are designed to enhance efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in the immigration system, but they are expected to significantly impact prospective migrants, including Nigerians seeking opportunities in Canada.

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