A new law aimed at curbing misuse of Canada's asylum system has come into force, targeting a surge in refugee claims, including a sharp rise from Indian nationals.
Bill C-12, the Strengthening Canada's Immigration System and Borders Act, introduces new eligibility rules: asylum claims filed more than one year after an individual's entry into Canada will no longer be referred to the Immigration and Refugees Board of Canada (IRB).
However, individuals will still be eligible for a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA) to ensure they are not returned to countries where they may face persecution, torture or other serious harm.
Toronto-based immigration lawyer Raghav Jain welcomed the move, saying the law would help stabilise the system and address gaps that had been exploited.
Indian nationals were among the largest contributors to the increase, filing 11,260 asylum claims in 2023 and 32,280 in 2024.
Long-term trends show a sharp rise: Indian nationals filed just 380 claims in 2015, but 32,280 in 2024.
However, critics say the new law could unintentionally create additional backlogs and affect genuine refugees.
