Canada’s refugee and immigration system is about to undergo major reform. The federal government’s Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act (Bill C-12) has already passed the House of Commons and completed second reading in the Senate. It is now moving quickly toward final approval and could become law as early as spring 2026.
For people seeking asylum in Canada, this legislative change may significantly affect refugee eligibility, refugee claim deadlines, and access to refugee hearings.
If you are considering a refugee claim in Canada, it is crucial to start the process now—before Bill C-12 takes effect.
What Is Bill C-12?
Bill C-12 is a major immigration reform law aimed at tightening border controls and reshaping Canada’s asylum system. The legislation introduces new powers affecting immigration documents, enforcement, and refugee processing.
Key proposed changes include:
Stricter refugee eligibility rules in Canada
Limits on late or delayed refugee claims
Expanded government authority over immigration status and documents
Changes to asylum processing and decision-making
For refugee claimants, the most important impact is clear: future claims may face more barriers than under current law.
How Bill C-12 May Affect Refugee Claims in Canada
Immigration and refugee lawyers are closely monitoring Bill C-12 because it may change how and when a person can seek asylum in Canada.
Potential impacts include:
New refugee claim deadlines in Canada
Restrictions on claims made after arrival
Possible loss of access to the Immigration and Refugee Board hearing
Increased ineligibility rules for certain claimants
In practical terms, individuals who wait too long to start a refugee claim may lose the right to a full refugee hearing in Canada.
Why You Should Start Your Refugee Claim Now
If you are in Canada and fear persecution or danger in your home country, waiting could reduce your legal options. Once Bill C-12 becomes law, some people who qualify today may no longer be eligible under the new rules.
You should seek legal advice immediately if you:
Need to apply for refugee protection in Canada
Have not yet filed a refugee claim
Entered Canada recently or without status
Have temporary status that is expiring
Are afraid to return to your country
Starting your case before the law changes may preserve your eligibility under current refugee laws.
Speak With a Refugee Lawyer in Canada Before It’s Too Late
Refugee law in Canada is complex, and upcoming legislative changes make timing critical. An experienced refugee lawyer in Canada can assess your eligibility and help you start your claim before stricter rules apply.
Titan Law’s immigration and refugee lawyers assist with:
Refugee eligibility assessments
Filing refugee claims in Canada
Urgent asylum applications
Representation before the Immigration and Refugee Board
Immigration status strategy before Bill C-12
Book a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer Who Will Fight for You
Bill C-12 is advancing quickly and may become law within months. Waiting could mean losing eligibility or facing stricter requirements for asylum in Canada.
If you are considering a refugee claim, the time to act is now.
Contact Titan Law today to speak with an experienced refugee lawyer in Canada and confirm your eligibility before the law changes.
Bill C-12, the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act, is proposed legislation that will change Canada’s immigration and asylum system. It is expected to introduce stricter refugee eligibility rules, limits on delayed claims, and new government powers over immigration documents and status. If passed, some individuals who qualify for refugee protection today may face greater barriers or ineligibility under the new law.
Bill C-12 has already passed the House of Commons and completed second reading in the Senate. It is currently advancing through the final stages of the legislative process and is widely expected to become law, possibly in
Yes. Immigration lawyers strongly recommend starting a refugee claim as soon as possible if you may need protection. Once Bill C-12 becomes law, new eligibility restrictions and deadlines may apply. Filing before the law changes may allow your case to be assessed under the current refugee rules in Canada.
Bill C-12 may affect people in Canada who have not yet filed a refugee claim, those with expired or temporary status, and individuals who delayed applying after arrival. Some provisions are expected to restrict claims made after certain time periods or circumstances. A refugee lawyer in Canada can assess whether you remain eligible under current or future rules.
A refugee lawyer can evaluate your eligibility, explain how Bill C-12 may affect your situation, and help you file a refugee claim quickly under current law. Legal guidance is especially important during legislative transitions, because timing and strategy can determine whether a person can access Canada’s refugee protection system.
