New Canada Immigration Bill C-12 Set To Bring Stricter Rules

Canada Immigration Bill C-12 Overview 2025: Bill C-12, officially known as Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, is a significant legislation that aims to reform Canada’s immigration and border enforcement policies. It focuses on restructuring the legal framework governing border enforcement, asylum claims processing, and immigration data sharing.

After passing through the House of Commons, Bill C-12 has now advanced to the Senate and is expected to become law, given historical trends. The Senate will resume discussions on the bill in February 2026, with the potential for it to receive royal assent.

This article delves into specific parts of the bill, particularly Parts 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8, which collectively aim to streamline processes, address procedural gaps, expedite removals, and grant more authority to the government in managing immigration challenges.

Background

Bill C-12 responds to mounting pressures faced by Canada’s immigration system, including high temporary resident numbers, a surge in in-Canada asylum claims, persistent processing backlogs, and calls for enhanced system integrity and efficiency.

Part 1: Customs Act Amendments

Part 1 of Bill C-12 focuses on amending the Customs Act to bolster border enforcement capabilities. While not directly related to visas or refugee claims, these changes empower the Canada Border Services Agency to enhance immigration control, removal operations, and national security measures.

• Facilities’ owners must provide free access to CBSA at key transit points
• Expanded authority for CBSA officers to inspect export-bound goods
• Enhanced enforcement measures at warehouses and export locations

Previously, disputes over access and jurisdiction hindered enforcement efforts. With the new amendments, CBSA’s authority is clear, standardized, and non-negotiable.

Part 5: Immigration Data Sharing

Part 5 of the bill introduces significant changes to how immigration data is shared. It grants IRCC explicit authority to share personal information internally and externally under defined parameters.

• Internal sharing within IRCC
• External sharing with federal/provincial agencies under specific conditions
• Prohibitions on sharing with foreign entities without consent and safeguards

These changes aim to streamline information sharing processes, ensuring compliance with privacy and mistreatment standards.