Canada is tightening its borders, with a significant increase in the number of foreigners being turned away at its ports of entry. Recent data obtained by Reuters reveals a notable rise in visa rejections and the denial of entry to travellers who have official documents. This shift comes amid Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s efforts to address concerns about immigration ahead of the expected election next year.
The rise in rejections aligns with a broader trend of reducing the number of temporary residents and potentially limiting permanent immigration. This policy adjustment appears to be driven by growing public sentiment, as many Canadians voice concerns about the impact of immigration on housing shortages and high prices.
Government data shows that in July alone, Canada refused entry to 5,853 foreign travellers, including students, workers, and tourists. This figure represents the highest number of rejections since at least January 2019. Border officers have been turning away an average of 3,727 travellers per month through the first seven months of 2024, marking a 20% increase compared to the previous year.
In addition to the increase in rejections at the border, there has been a rise in the number of visa-holders deemed inadmissible. In July, 285 visa-holders were turned away, the highest number recorded since at least January 2019. This trend indicates a stricter enforcement of entry requirements and heightened scrutiny of foreign travellers.
Canada’s immigration department has also been approving fewer visas overall. Data shows a higher ratio of refused visitor visa applications compared to approved ones, particularly in June 2024. This increase in rejections follows a cap announced in January on study-permit approvals, which has contributed to a decrease in the number of permits issued.
The stricter border controls and visa policies come as Prime Minister Trudeau’s government, which is currently trailing in polls, seeks to address public concerns about immigration. The perception that the country is admitting “too many immigrants” is influencing both policy and the actions of border and immigration officers.
Eight immigration lawyers reported that clients have experienced increased scrutiny of their visa status at airports and land border crossings. This heightened scrutiny reflects a broader trend towards more rigorous enforcement of immigration policies.
A spokesperson for the immigration department emphasized the commitment to applying immigration policies fairly and non-discriminatorily. However, the noticeable drop in visa approvals and the increased number of rejections suggest a shift towards more conservative immigration practices.
The implications of these changes are significant for individuals seeking to enter Canada for work, study, or tourism. The increased scrutiny and higher rejection rates may affect the ability of many to travel to or stay in Canada, reflecting broader shifts in immigration policy in response to domestic pressures and political considerations.
As Canada navigates these policy adjustments, the impact on both prospective immigrants and the broader immigration system will continue to unfold, with potential consequences for the country’s international reputation and its approach to managing foreign travel and residency.
