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New bill proposes major changes to Canada’s asylum system

In a sweeping new legislative development, the Canadian government has introduced Bill C-2, a proposed act that could drastically reshape how asylum claims are processed in Canada. If passed into law, the bill would impose stricter eligibility criteria, provide the federal government with expanded powers over immigration applications, and significantly alter the legal landscape for refugee claimants, especially those entering the country irregularly or submitting claims after a delay.

As Canada faces growing immigration pressures and increasing asylum claims, Bill C-2 signals a firm shift toward prioritising border security and administrative efficiency. The bill was tabled in the House of Commons on June 3, 2025, and is now in the first stage of the legislative process.

In this article, we’ll explore what Bill C-2 proposes and how it reflects broader trends in Canadian immigration policy.

Formally titled “An Act respecting certain measures relating to the security of the border between Canada and the United States and respecting other related security measures,” Bill C-2 proposes significant changes to Canada’s refugee determination system.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

• One-Year Limit on Asylum Claims Post-Entry: Individuals who entered Canada after June 24, 2020, would be ineligible to make a refugee claim if they submit it more than one year after their entry. Exceptions may be allowed through regulatory provisions, but the default rule is strict.
• Crackdown on Irregular Border Crossings: Foreign nationals who entered Canada outside of an official port of entry along the Canada–U.S. land border would be ineligible for asylum, regardless of how long they have been in the country. This reverses the current legal stance, which allows refugee claims by individuals who cross irregularly, provided the claim is made at least 14 days after entry.
• Retroactive Application: While refugee claims made prior to June 3, 2025 are exempt, claims made after the bill's introduction will be subject to these new ineligibility rules, even before the bill officially becomes law, should it pass.

According to the federal government, the bill is intended to:

• Reduce the backlog in asylum claims.
• Enhance the security of Canada’s borders.
• Target abuse in the refugee system by tightening eligibility criteria.
• Ensure the asylum system prioritizes genuine and timely claims from those in immediate need of protection.

Expanded Powers Under Bill C-2

In addition to altering eligibility rules, the bill grants broad discretionary powers to both the Governor in Council (i.e., Cabinet) and immigration officials.

Powers granted to Immigration Officers:

• Terminate or suspend applications based on prescribed circumstances.
• Require individuals to appear for examination during any stage of the immigration or refugee process.
• Vary or cancel immigration documents, such as study or work permits.

Powers granted to the Governor in Council:

• Suspend, cancel, or restrict the processing of certain immigration applications if deemed “in the public interest.”
• Issue orders to terminate or delay applications.
• Cancel, suspend, or impose new conditions on existing immigration documents such as visas, work permits, or PR cards.

New Ministerial Authorities:

• Appoint representatives for minors under 18 during proceedings.
• Establish what information and documents must be submitted with a refugee claim.
• Determine if unsubmitted claims are withdrawn or abandoned if the claimant is outside Canada or fails to meet procedural steps.

This enhanced authority represents a significant centralisation of decision-making power in immigration enforcement and could increase subjectivity in assessing asylum claims and issuing decisions.

Privacy Concerns

The bill also proposes amendments to existing privacy rules, allowing for the increased sharing of personal information across government departments. This is framed as a measure to streamline interdepartmental coordination, particularly on cases related to national security or fraud detection.

However, privacy advocates may raise concerns about data overreach, especially as sensitive information from vulnerable populations (including asylum seekers and minors) could be more widely accessible.

Legal Implications

The retroactive nature of the bill, particularly the one-year submission rule and restrictions on irregular entries, has sparked concerns among immigration lawyers and advocacy organisations. Critics argue that asylum seekers may not always be able to file claims within a year of arrival due to trauma, lack of legal knowledge, language barriers, or fear of persecution.

What Comes Next?

Bill C-2 is currently in its first reading in Parliament. For the bill to become law, it must pass:

• Second and third readings in the House of Commons.
• Debate and approval by the Senate.
• Final royal assent by the Governor General.

Is the Bill a Turning Point in Canadian Asylum Policy?

Whether or not Bill C-2 is passed in its current form, it marks a significant turning point in the evolution of Canada’s refugee and immigration policy. With a stronger emphasis on border control, processing efficiency, and discretionary enforcement, the bill is emblematic of a government grappling with the realities of global migration, security concerns, and the administrative pressures of maintaining a fair and efficient asylum system.

For prospective refugee claimants, legal representatives, and policymakers, staying informed and prepared will be essential as the implications of this bill unfold in the coming months.

Need legal guidance on your immigration or asylum options? Contact us today!

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 or +1 647 453 7660 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.