03/27/2026
🇨🇦 **What is Bill C-12 and what does it mean for you?**
Canada just passed a major new law called **Bill C-12 — the Strengthening Canada's Immigration System and Borders Act**. Here's what it changes, in plain language:
**🔒 Tighter rules for refugee claims:**
If someone has been in Canada for more than **1 year** without making a refugee claim, they can no longer apply to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). This rule applies all the way back to people who first arrived after June 24, 2020.
Also, anyone who crossed into Canada **between official border checkpoints** and waited more than **14 days** before making a claim is also now ineligible.
Government can cancel immigration documents:
The government now has new powers to cancel, suspend, or change visas, work permits, study permits, and other documents — even in large groups — if they decide it's in the "public interest." This includes situations involving fraud, public safety, or national security.
📊 Tougher rules against money laundering:
Businesses dealing with money must now register with Canada's financial watchdog (FINTRAC), and fines for breaking the rules have increased significantly.
👥 Who is most affected by this law?
People who have been living in Canada for over a year without making a refugee claim, even if new circumstances have arisen; those who crossed the US-Canada border outside a regular checkpoint, and applicants in immigration programs facing long backlogs. **If you currently have a pending refugee claim and your situation matches any of the descriptions above, your claim may also be affected by this new law.**
If your refugee claim is found to be ineligible under Bill C-12, you may still qualify for a **Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)** — a process where an immigration officer reviews whether it would be safe to return you to your home country. While a PRRA is not the same as a full refugee hearing, it is an important protection that may still be available to you. It is critical to speak with an immigration professional as soon as possible to understand your options.
The government 's goal is to reduce pressure on the system and close loopholes that were being misused.
This is a big change to how Canada handles immigration and refugees. If you have questions or believe you may be affected by Bill C-12, we are here to help.
Visit our website at 🌐 www.immigrationcan.com and send us a message — our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Share this post so your friends and family know what's happening. 👇
---
Looking for an immigration lawyer in Ottawa to immigrate to Canada or the US? Achtari Law provide professional Canadian and US immigration law services.
