New Canada Immigration Bill Just Passed and Here’s What Changes Now

hese powers are designed to address systemic issues like organized fraud rather than targeting individual applicants.

However, you should ensure that all your documents are authentic.

If you used an immigration consultant or agent, verify that any acceptance letters or job offers were legitimate.

If you are considering filing a refugee claim, be aware that the one year timeline will apply once the bill receives Royal Assent.

Review when you first entered Canada after June 24, 2020, as this date determines your eligibility for a full IRB hearing.

International students who have been in Canada for more than a year and are thinking about claiming asylum should seek legal advice immediately.

What This Means for Permanent Residents

Permanent residents are included in the scope of documents that can be affected by cabinet orders.

However, the powers are limited to specific public interest circumstances.

Permanent residents who obtained their status legitimately should not expect any impact on their documentation.

The Senate Social Affairs Committeerecommended exempting permanent residents from information sharing provisions, but this recommendation was not adopted.

Permanent residents should continue maintaining their status according to current rules.

If you are concerned about how the legislation might affect you, consult with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.

What This Means for Refugee Claimants

The bill has the most significant impact on those seeking refugee protection in Canada.

If You Have Already Filed a Claim

If You Are Considering Filing a Claim

If you entered Canada after June 24, 2020, and have been here for more than one year, your claim will be directed to the Pre-Removal Risk Assessment process rather than the Immigration and Refugee Board.

You should seek legal advice immediately to understand your options.

Filing a claim has legal implications regardless of Bill C-12.

If You Entered at the Land Border

If you crossed into Canada from the United States at a location other than a port of entry, you must file your claim within 14 days to be eligible for a full IRB hearing.

After 14 days, your claim would be ineligible under the new rules.

Bill C-12 Key Dates to Remember

Event	Date	Significance
Retroactive Start Date	June 24, 2020	One year rule applies to entries after this date
Senate Third Reading	March 12, 2026	Bill passed final legislative hurdle
Royal Assent	Pending	Bill becomes law
Implementation	TBD by IRCC	Regulations and guidance issued

Once the bill receives Royal Assent, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will provide detailed guidance on transition provisions and implementation timelines.

Some provisions may take effect immediately, while others may require regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Bill C-12 in Canada and who could be affected?

Bill C-12 is Canada’s proposed Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act. As of March 12, 2026, it has passed Parliament’s final legislative hurdle in the Senate and is awaiting Royal Assent before becoming law. The bill would introduce major changes affecting refugee claimants, immigration applicants, and some holders of work permits, study permits, visas, and other immigration documents. Key measures include new asylum ineligibility rules, broader government information-sharing powers, and authority to cancel, suspend, or vary certain immigration documents in defined public-interest situations.

What happens to my immigration application if it was submitted before Royal Assent?

Applications submitted before the bill becomes law will generally be processed under existing rules. However, transition provisions will be detailed by IRCC once the bill receives Royal Assent. Monitor official government announcements for specific guidance on pending applications.

Can the government cancel my work permit without notifying me first?

Any order affecting documents or a specific cohort must be published in the Canada Gazette, and the Minister must report to Parliament within seven sitting days. You will be informed through official publications, and individual notifications are expected to be sent once the order is implemented.

If I disagree with a decision made under Bill C-12, what legal options do I have?

Individuals affected by decisions under the legislation can seek judicial review at the Federal Court. Advocacy groups may also pursue Charter challenges if specific provisions are believed to violate constitutional rights. Legal counsel can advise on the appropriate avenue based on your circumstances.

Does Bill C-12 affect my ability to sponsor family members?

The bill does not directly change family sponsorship rules. However, the information sharing provisions allow IRCC to share details about sponsors and sponsored persons with other government entities. If document cancellation powers are used, sponsors affected by orders could see implications for pending sponsorship applications.

Will there be a grace period for people affected by the one-year asylum rule?

The bill does not include a specific grace period. The provisions apply retroactively to claims made after Bill C-2 was introduced. If you believe you may be affected, seek legal advice before the bill receives Royal Assent to understand your options under current rules.

Kamal Deep Singh, RCIC

Kamal Deep Singh, RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) licensed by CICC (formerly known as ICCRC) with member number R708618. He brings extensive knowledge of immigration law and new changes to rapidly evolving IRCC.