Toronto: In a major immigration policy shift, Canada has implemented a new law—Bill C-12—putting nearly 30,000 migrants at risk of deportation, including around 9,000 Punjabi international students and asylum seekers.
The law, formally known as the ‘Strengthening Canada Immigration System and Borders Act’, received royal assent on March 26 and significantly tightens asylum rules. Under the new provisions, individuals applying for asylum more than one year after arriving in Canada will be deemed ineligible for a full hearing before the Immigration and Refugee Board.
According to CBC News, Canada’s immigration department has started issuing ‘procedural fairness notices’ to affected individuals, informing them that their claims no longer meet the updated criteria. Many have been asked to leave the country voluntarily or face legal action.
Reports by The Globe and Mail indicate growing panic among affected migrants, especially Punjabi students who had initially arrived on study permits. Many turned to asylum applications after facing limited job opportunities and stricter pathways to permanent residency.
A spokesperson for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada confirmed that notices are being issued to all applicants falling under the new law’s scope.
Under the revised system, those declared ineligible will not receive a full refugee hearing and will instead only have access to a ‘Pre-Removal Risk Assessment’ (PRRA), limiting their chances to present their case. Immigration lawyers have raised concerns that this reduces legal recourse significantly.
Authorities clarified that these notices are not final deportation orders. Recipients typically have 21 days to respond with additional information. Failure to respond or comply could lead to removal proceedings.
The development has triggered concern among Punjabi communities in cities like Brampton, Surrey and Calgary, as well as families back in Punjab. Community groups are urging affected individuals to immediately consult registered immigration advisors and prepare necessary documentation.
