Canada’s immigration system is facing renewed debate as the Conservative Party introduces sweeping Bill C-12 immigration amendments aimed at reforming asylum processing, enforcement, and federal spending. Shadow Ministers Michelle Rempel Garner and Brad Redekopp argue that the current model is overwhelmed, pointing to major increases in backlogs, rising costs, and growing concerns over security screening. Their proposal outlines a significant shift in how Canada manages asylum claims, prioritizes enforcement, and selects board members responsible for adjudicating cases.

A System Facing Rising Pressures

According to the Conservative MPs, Canada’s asylum backlog has grown sharply since 2015. They report that the number of unresolved claims has increased thirty times compared to a decade ago, placing pressure on resources and slowing down decision-making for legitimate refugees.

At the same time, spending on federal health benefits for claimants has surpassed $3.3 billion since 2015. Critics say that the system is no longer sustainable and that the growing queue undermines public confidence in Canada’s ability to manage humanitarian arrivals fairly.

The Conservatives also raised alarms about security screening. Their statements point to hundreds of individuals with reported links to Hamas now present in Canada. They argue that this highlights vulnerabilities in the current assessment process and strengthens the case for stricter screening rules.

What the Proposed Reforms Include

The amendments introduced aim to tighten eligibility, improve enforcement, and address administrative inefficiencies. Key proposals include:

Ending Federal Benefits for Failed Asylum Claimants

The Conservatives argue that individuals whose claims have been rejected should not continue receiving taxpayer-funded benefits, particularly once their removal order becomes enforceable.

Restricting Sylum Claims from Countries Considered Safe

The proposal seeks to prevent asylum claims from nationals of G7 and EU member states, arguing that these countries have stable democratic institutions, independent courts, and systems of protection that make claims from their citizens unlikely to meet refugee criteria.

Closing Legal Gaps that Delay the Removal of Criminals

The reforms aim to ensure that individuals with serious criminality are removed more quickly. Conservatives say that current legal processes allow some individuals to remain in Canada for extended periods due to appeal avenues and procedural delays.

Modernizing the Immigration and Refugee Board

This includes a shift toward merit-based appointments, with an emphasis on expertise and performance. The goal is to reduce backlogs, make the system more efficient, and ensure consistent decision-making.

Why Advocates and Critics are Divided

Reactions to the proposed amendments vary widely. Supporters argue that the system needs a reset to reduce delays and prevent abuse, especially as Canada continues to see rising numbers of asylum seekers each year.

Critics, however, caution that restricting claims from certain regions or ending benefits for failed claimants may create barriers for vulnerable people. They also question whether the proposals would meet Canada’s international obligations toward refugee protection.

Some immigration experts suggest that effective reform requires investment in processing capacity, improved coordination between federal agencies, and updated technology rather than sweeping exclusions.

Others note that the asylum system has always operated under pressure and that backlogs often reflect fluctuating global crises more than policy failures at home.

How the Bill C-12 Immigration Amendments Could Reshape Policy

A Shift Toward Enforcement and System Efficiency

The proposed changes place strong focus on enforcement and preventing what Conservatives describe as “system misuse.” If adopted, the amendments could change how quickly failed claimants are removed, how new claims are screened, and how board members are selected.

Potential Reductions in Federal Spending

By ending benefits for certain categories of claimants and restricting eligibility for others, the Conservatives estimate significant future cost savings for taxpayers.

A Redefined Approach to Humanitarian Claims

The reforms would mark a major philosophical shift, moving Canada closer to models used in other developed nations that restrict claims from safe countries and streamline removal processes.

The Future Impact of The Bill C-12 Immigration Amendments

The Bill C-12 immigration amendments represent one of the most comprehensive reform proposals to Canada’s asylum system in recent years. Whether these changes move forward or spark further debate, they highlight growing pressure to address backlogs, enforcement gaps, and rising costs while balancing Canada’s long-standing commitment to refugee protection. If you’re concerned about how upcoming legislative changes may affect your immigration plans, ImmigCanada can guide you with accurate advice and tailored strategies. Contact our licensed professionals today for reliable support.