Canada has tightened its visa processing procedure, dramatically increasing the number of foreign passengers turned away. This shift has aroused widespread conjecture regarding its reasons. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) data demonstrates a concerning pattern.

Surge in Visa Rejections

In July 2024 alone, Canada rejected entry to 5,853 international visitors, including students, employees, and tourists. During the first seven months of 2024, an average of 3,727 tourists per month were turned down, a 20% increase from the same period in 2023. The increase in rejections is the largest since at least January 2019.

The extra monitoring comes as the Canadian government confronts growing criticism about immigration. The country's rising immigrant population has put tremendous strain on housing, and the government's actions are now under close scrutiny, particularly as a federal election approaches.

Stricter Enforcement and Policy Shifts

Border officers have increased their inspection of visa holders. Will Tao, a lawyer in British Columbia, has revealed that officials in Canada do not believe clients about their objectives. Travellers are frequently given the option of leaving voluntarily or facing deportation, sometimes without fully comprehending the implications for their visa status.

This increased enforcement reflects a more significant shift in immigration policy. The increasing rejections are consistent with a pattern of stricter immigration regulations under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government.

With the election approaching and the administration down in surveys, there appears to be a push to restrict the number of temporary and permanent immigrants.

Impact on Foreign Workers and Permits

The tightening of visa approvals goes beyond visitor visas and includes other types of temporary residency. Study and job permits have also decreased.

The number of accepted study permits and work visas has decreased from previous highs in 2023 and 2022. Immigration Minister Marc Miller has connected the decline to a broader review of permanent residency applications.

The government is also reducing the Temporary Foreign Workers (TFW) program. Employers in sectors with high unemployment rates will no longer be able to hire low-wage TFWs, except in particular "food security sectors" such as agriculture and processing. This program has been chastised for exploitative methods despite a significant increase in TFWs in the healthcare industry since 2018.

The change in immigration policy is a reaction to rising public concern about immigration's impact on house affordability. The Canadian immigration environment is changing dramatically due to increased rejections and more robust regulations.

FAQS

How has the tightening of visa approvals affected student and work permits?

The tightening has resulted in a decline in the number of approved study and work permits. The number of these permits has decreased from prior highs in 2023 and 2022, showing the government's rethinking of immigration policies.

How does the federal election affect immigration policy?

The impending federal election has increased criticism of immigration laws. With the government losing in surveys, there is mounting pressure to address public concerns about immigration and its impact on housing and infrastructure. This political climate may impact policy changes and enforcement actions.