Changes in Canadian Immigration Continues in 2024

The Government of Canada has announced a series of significant in Canadian immigration aimed at strengthening border security and improving the immigration system. Backed by a $1.3 billion investment, Canada’s Border Plan aims to enhance immigration policies, secure the borders, and pave the way for future prosperity.

During a news release in Ottawa on December 17, 2024, several key measures were outlined. These updates focus on resolving current challenges and creating a more efficient and fair immigration system for Canada.

Here’s a breakdown of the changes in Canadian immigration that you need to know:

1. Minimize Unnecessary Border Crossings

NO MORE FLAG POLLING, regardless of the kind of application you intend to present.  This process was an irritant with the US. Flag polling occurs when a temporary resident leaves Canada and immediately returns at a land port of entry to receive immigration services.  Flag polling allowed for eligible applicants to have documents issued on the spot, at the land port of entry.  However, the process used up valuable resources on both sides of the border, slowed border traffic and prevented officers from focusing on more critical tasks. 

Additional measures will include imposing new restrictions on countries that do not rapidly facilitate the return of their citizens in the event of fraudulent entry or a removal order.

2. Measures to streamline the Asylum system

Measures will be introduced to streamline the asylum system and expedite the processing of illegitimate claims, aligning with similar initiatives already in place in the United States. The government is committed to creating an asylum system that is efficient, well-managed, and resistant to fraud.

The Minister made it clear that anyone attempting to enter Canada illegally or cross the border outside of official points of entry is putting themselves at risk. Such actions are dangerous and, in most cases, lead to the rejection of any subsequent asylum claims.

3. Increased Information Sharing

IRCC will be working with Canadian counterparts in the US to share information to improve security and further reduce the risks that individuals with a Criminal pass can enter Canada, including more thorough vetting of electronic travel authorizations. 

Increased information sharing between the two countries, on each illegal border interception enables officials to take stronger action against those who abuse our system, allowing for enhanced intelligence sharing in real-time, improved operational interoperability, proactive resource planning and deployment, and ultimately, disruption of organized crime groups facilitating illegal border crossings.

FINALLY, implementing further measures that will reinforce program integrity and reduce potential LMIA fraud by removing additional points that candidates receive under Express entry for having a job offer.   

It is anticipated that these legislative changes will occur at the beginning of 2025.

Some Interesting Facts:

• Asylum claims made by people crossing illegally dropped from about 165 per day in March of 2023 to about 12 applications per day at the end of December 2024.
• Illegal Crossings into the US by Canadian visa holders have dropped by 84% since June of 2024. 
• Asylum claims from Mexico have dropped by 92%, after the partial Visa requirements for Mexicans were introduced in February of 2024.

Why risk your application?

Book a consultation to gain clarity and make an informed decision about what’s best for you and your family.

Submitting a successful immigration application requires a well-thought-out strategy and thorough preparation. With immigration officers adopting stricter policies and given more authority, your application could be refused outright if it lacks clarity or necessary documents.

How We Can Help

Our team is here to guide you through every step of your Canadian immigration journey, ensuring your application is well-prepared and aligns with the latest changes in Canadian immigration policies.