The Canadian government has implemented new immigration and asylum measures that will impact Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking entry into the country. The changes 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.
Under the new rules, asylum claims made more than a year after an individual’s first entry into Canada after June 24, 2020, will no longer be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). Similarly, claims made more than 14 days after entering between official ports along the Canada–US land border will not be referred to the IRB.
Canadian authorities explained that the changes aim to reduce pressure on the asylum system, prevent misuse of refugee pathways, and speed up processing. Vulnerable groups, including unaccompanied minors, will receive special consideration.
The law does not alter the Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States, which allows most asylum seekers arriving at official border crossings to be returned unless they qualify for exemptions.
Additionally, Canada plans to modernize its asylum procedures through faster digital processing. Only complete and “schedule-ready” claims will be referred for adjudication, while cases may be considered abandoned if applicants leave the country before a decision. Removal orders will take effect immediately when a claim is withdrawn, allowing faster voluntary departures.
The legislation also grants immigration authorities broader powers to share applicants’ personal data within government agencies, while maintaining privacy safeguards. New provisions allow the cancellation, suspension, or modification of visas, work permits, and study permits in certain situations to improve system efficiency and transparency.
