November 30th, 2024 at 04:52 am

Canada’s Immigration Stance Amid U.S. Policy Changes | Canada Immigration

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has stated that the Canadian government is prepared to collaborate with the United States. This cooperation comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to implement his immigration policies. However, Miller emphasizes that anyone wishing to enter Canada must do so legally.

Ottawa faces mounting pressure from opposition MPs, the Premier of Quebec, and immigration lawyers. This pressure has increased since the recent U.S. election, as concerns rise that Trump’s plans to deport millions could lead to a surge of asylum seekers entering Canada. Miller explained to The Globe and Mail that claims regarding the incoming president’s policies impacting Canada are mere speculation.

“We will always act in the national interest. Any measures we undertake will ensure our borders remain secure. We want individuals to come to Canada via regular pathways. The reality is that not everyone will be welcomed here,” he stated.

Trump’s Campaign Promises and Their Potential Impact

During his campaign, Trump vowed to carry out the largest deportation of undocumented migrants in U.S. history. Approximately 11 million individuals currently live in the U.S. without legal status.

Stephen Miller, known for his strict immigration views, is expected to serve as Trump’s deputy chief of policy. Recently, Tom Homan, the incoming border enforcement chief, indicated that the new administration would prioritize the deportation of undocumented migrants who pose security and public safety threats.

Quebec Premier François Legault and Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet have voiced concerns about potential asylum seekers flooding into Quebec. They worry that individuals facing deportation in the U.S. could cross the border to claim asylum in Canada. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) informed *The Globe* that they have plans in place to handle an influx of migrants from the U.S.

On Monday, several immigration lawyers urged Ottawa to modify a policy that permits migrants fleeing the U.S. to claim asylum if they cross the border illegally and avoid authorities for two weeks.

In 2017, a wave of Haitians entered Canada from the U.S. after the Trump administration ended temporary protected status for Haitians. This shift led to a surge of asylum claims at the “irregular” Roxham Road border crossing in Quebec.

U.S. Policy Changes and Canadian Response

Following negotiations with the U.S., the Safe Third Country Agreement was revised, leading to the closure of Roxham Road in 2023. These changes tightened the rules but allowed individuals entering Canada illegally from the U.S. to file a refugee claim if they remained undiscovered for 14 days. Typically, those arriving from the U.S. at airports and regular border crossings are turned back.

Lawyers have warned that if Ottawa does not act swiftly to change this policy, record numbers of individuals facing deportation under Trump will attempt to reach Canada. These individuals could qualify for work permits and health care while their claims are processed.

Winnipeg immigration lawyer David Matas urged the government to engage with the Biden administration before Trump assumes office in January. He stated that the 14-day provision serves as an “incentive to traffickers” seeking to exploit the system.

The federal government has been temporarily accommodating asylum seekers in hotels, while shelters in urban areas struggle to provide enough beds.

Vancouver immigration lawyer Richard Kurland expressed concern about a potential surge in undocumented migrants attempting to flee deportation from the U.S. after the election. He urged Ottawa to eliminate incentives for illegal border crossings. He suggested altering the agreement to prevent individuals who enter Canada illegally from claiming asylum.

“President Trump will likely target criminals for removal, making this group particularly motivated to seek sanctuary in Canada,” he warned.

Increasing Interest in Moving to Canada

David Garson, managing partner at Garson Immigration Law in Toronto, reported an influx of inquiries from Americans wanting to move to Canada since the election. He predicted that many who attempt to cross illegally will face severe hardships, including paying smugglers to help them cross the border and struggling to find housing and employment.

Speculation about the impact of Trump’s presidency on asylum seekers coincides with a broader debate in Canada regarding immigration levels. This discussion includes temporary foreign workers, students, and refugee claimants, and their effects on housing and other services.

Public Opinion on Refugees and Immigration

A recent poll indicates that many Canadians believe the country should reduce the number of refugees it accepts. According to a Nanos poll conducted for *The Globe and Mail*, only 10% of Canadians think the country should accept more refugees. The poll revealed that 56% of respondents believe Canada should allow fewer refugees and protected persons to become permanent residents than the government plans for the upcoming year.

The Nanos poll, which combined telephone and online surveys involving 1,010 participants, showed that 59% of respondents in Quebec want Canada to accept fewer refugees. This sentiment contrasts with 49% in British Columbia and 57% in Ontario. Furthermore, nearly 60% of men, compared to 53% of women, believe Canada should reduce the number of accepted refugees. Only 29% of Canadians think the current immigration numbers are appropriate.

The poll also addressed the federal government’s plan to accept 395,000 immigrants as permanent residents in 2025, including approximately 68,000 (or about 17%) as refugees or protected persons. Nik Nanos, chairman of Nanos Research, noted that Canadians are not opposed to immigration. However, they are concerned about whether the country can accommodate an increasing population.

“With shortages in housing, doctors, and nurses, average Canadians are questioning our capacity to take in more people,” he explained. The poll, conducted between November 4 and November 6, has a margin of error of 3.1 percentage points, with a confidence level of 95%.

Conclusion

As Canada navigates its immigration policies amid changing U.S. leadership, the government faces challenges and opportunities. Minister Marc Miller’s statements reflect a commitment to ensuring that Canada’s borders remain secure while addressing the legitimate needs of asylum seekers.

The potential influx of individuals seeking refuge due to U.S. immigration policies necessitates careful consideration and proactive measures. As public sentiment shifts regarding refugee acceptance, it remains crucial for the Canadian government to balance compassion with practical realities.

In the coming months, Canada will need to adapt its policies to maintain its reputation as a welcoming nation while ensuring that its social services can adequately support those in need. The evolving landscape of immigration will continue to be a significant topic of discussion as Canada prepares for the challenges and changes ahead.