On March 26, 2026, Bill C-12, the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, received royal assent. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published the
Bill C-12 Becomes Law: New Asylum Eligibility Rules and Immigration Powers
On March 26, 2026, Bill C-12, the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, received royal assent. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) published the details of its new immigration and asylum measures. Anyone in Canada on temporary status who is thinking about an asylum claim should understand these rules.
New Asylum Eligibility Rules
- One-year rule: A claim made more than one year after a person’s first entry into Canada (for entries after June 24, 2020) will not be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). This applies even if the person left Canada and came back.
- 14-day rule: A claim made more than 14 days after entering Canada between official land ports of entry on the Canada–US border will not be referred to the IRB.
- These rules apply to claims made on or after June 3, 2025.
Safeguards
- People affected by these rules can still apply for a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA).
- Officers will receive guidance to consider the circumstances of unaccompanied minors.
- The Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States is unchanged.
Powers Over Visas and Permits
When it is in the public interest, for reasons such as fraud, administrative errors, public health, safety or national security, the government may now:
- cancel, suspend or change large groups of visas, electronic travel authorizations (eTAs), and work and study permits
- pause the intake of applications
- cancel or suspend the processing of applications
Each use requires an order by the Governor in Council, published in the Canada Gazette. These powers do not affect asylum claims and do not allow the government to grant, change or revoke permanent or temporary resident status.
Other Changes
The law also gives IRCC new authority to share information with federal, provincial and territorial partners under written agreements. A modernized asylum process will follow through future regulations.
What Does This Mean for You?
- If you are in Canada and fear returning to your country, seek advice early, because timing now affects eligibility.
- Keep a record of your dates of entry into Canada.
- Make sure every application you submit contains accurate information.
For advice on your situation and the options available to you, complete our online assessment or contact our office to book a consultation.