Bill C-12: What Canada's New Immigration Law Means for Refugee Claimants and Immigrants

March 2026 marked a significant shift in Canada's immigration and refugee system. Bill C-12, officially known as the Strengthening Canada's Immigration System and Borders Act, received Royal Assent on March 26, 2026, introducing some of the most substantial changes to Canada's immigration framework in recent years.

The federal government states that these reforms are intended to strengthen border security, improve the integrity of the immigration system, and reduce processing backlogs. However, immigration lawyers, advocacy organizations, and refugee rights groups have raised concerns about the potential impact on access to refugee protection and procedural fairness.

Key Changes Introduced by Bill C-12

1. New Eligibility Restrictions for Refugee Claims
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of new rules that can make certain refugee claims ineligible for referral to the Refugee Protection Division (RPD).

Under the new legislation:

Individuals who have been in Canada for more than one year before making a refugee claim may be barred from having their claim heard by the RPD.
Individuals who enter Canada from the United States at a land border and wait 14 days or more before making a refugee claim may also face ineligibility restrictions.
In these situations, claimants may instead be directed to a different risk assessment process rather than receiving a full hearing before the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).

2. Modernization of the Asylum System
The government has stated that Bill C-12 aims to create a more efficient asylum process by streamlining procedures and reducing delays in decision-making. The goal is to address increasing refugee claim volumes and growing backlogs within the system.

While efficiency is an important objective, critics argue that accelerated processes should not come at the expense of fairness and access to an independent hearing.

3. Expanded Information Sharing
Bill C-12 authorizes broader information sharing between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), other federal departments, provincial governments, and certain public agencies for immigration-related purposes. The government argues that these measures will improve program integrity and service delivery.

Privacy advocates, however, have expressed concerns regarding the scope of information sharing and the potential impact on applicants' personal information.

4. Increased Ministerial Authority
The legislation grants the government broader powers regarding immigration documents, applications, and permits in situations deemed to be in the public interest.

These powers may affect:

• Temporary resident visas
• Study permits
• Work permits
• Electronic travel authorizations
• Certain permanent residence applications

Supporters argue that these tools provide flexibility to respond to emerging immigration pressures, while critics have questioned the breadth of discretion provided under the legislation.

Why This Matters
For many refugee claimants and immigrants, access to an independent hearing before the Immigration and Refugee Board has been a cornerstone of Canada's refugee protection system.

Organizations such as the Canadian Bar Association, the Canadian Council for Refugees, and various human rights groups have expressed concerns that some of the new eligibility restrictions may limit access to refugee protection for vulnerable individuals who may not have been able to make a claim immediately upon arrival in Canada.

At the same time, the government maintains that the changes are necessary to preserve the integrity and sustainability of Canada's immigration and asylum systems.

What Should Refugee Claimants and Immigrants Do?
If you are:

• Considering making a refugee claim;
• Currently in Canada without permanent status;
• Awaiting a decision on an immigration application; or
• Concerned about how Bill C-12 may affect your case,

it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Early action may be critical, particularly where eligibility deadlines or procedural requirements apply.

Every case is unique, and the impact of Bill C-12 will depend on an individual's specific circumstances.

How Linda K Law Can Help
The changes introduced by Bill C-12 are complex and continue to be implemented across Canada's immigration system. Our team stays informed on legislative developments and their practical impact on refugee claimants, temporary residents, and permanent residence applicants.

If you have questions about how Bill C-12 may affect your immigration matter, contact Linda K Law Professional Corporation for a consultation. We can assess your situation and help you understand your options under the new law.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and policies can change, and legal advice should be obtained for your specific circumstances.