CANADA REFUGEE CLAIMS DROP

Immigration law

02 Apr

Canada's  refugee claims take a nosedive as the country decides to hand out fewer visas-guess they're running out of 'Sorry, eh?' cards.

According to data from the Immigration and Refugee Board, in January, around 11,840 people applied for refugee status in Canada, down from 19,821 in July, This is the lowest number since September 2023. Refugee claims are decreasing from record highs as Canada gives out fewer visas, and advocates are concerned that genuine claimants are being left without many options.

Therefore, Canada is openly discouraging asylum-seekers and tightening visa approvals, with the goal of gradually lowering the number of arrivals and easing pressure on services, all while responding to growing public opposition to migration. Not an easy task for a country surrounded by water and bound by an agreement with the United States to send asylum-seekers back.

RRM Law can help by providing expert legal guidance and representation for those seeking refugee status in Canada. Their team can assist with the refugee application process, ensuring all necessary documents are properly submitted, and can offer support in navigating the complexities of immigration laws.

According to a Reuters analysis the drop was especially steep for countries that have been major sources of asylum-seekers. Looks like some countries’ refugee requests are experiencing a ‘severe case of the cold shoulder’ from Canada. Despite the decline in claims the Immigration and Refugee Board reports that as of January 278,45, the number of pending claims remains at a record high.

Canada does not offer asylum-seeker visas, so if you want to claim refugee status, better pack your bags as a visitor, student, or worker first—it's like a game of "sneak into Canada" with a few extra forms to fill out.

Displaced people can also hang out in refugee camps, sometimes for years, crossing their fingers and hoping they get picked for resettlement—it's like a really long, nerve-wracking game of "will I ever get picked?"

Canada is closely reviewing visa applications from countries with high rates of misuse, to make sure visas are used for their intended purpose, said Renee LeBlanc Proctor, a spokesperson for Immigration Minister Marc Miller. This also helps protect the asylum process, ensuring it's available for those who truly need it.

"If people are fleeing unfair treatment or cruelty, often based on race, religion, or political views, the only way some of them might find safety is with an exit visa. Without it, they are forced to risk their lives crossing borders on foot. Gallego said, the center is seeing fewer people but unsure if they are being sent to other places. It's like facing barriers nobody can see.

Amid global displacement, advocates say Canada's tougher stance leaves desperate people with few choices. "It's really a big problem," said Diana Gallego, co-executive director of the FCJ Refugee Centre in Toronto, which helps asylum-seekers.

If you're facing challenges with your claim or have concerns about your options, RRM Law can work to strengthen your case, represent you in hearings, and provide advice on the best path forward. RRM Law is dedicated to helping legitimate claimants find solutions and achieve the best possible outcome in their immigration journey. Speak with an experienced attorney  today.