Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced plans to introduce additional reforms to Canada’s immigration and asylum systems in the coming weeks. This follows recent measures that include reducing the targeted number of permanent residents for the next two years and tightening regulations for temporary worker permits.
Appearing before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration, Miller acknowledged significant inefficiencies in the asylum and refugee processing system. Current statistics reveal an average wait time of 44 months for refugee and asylum claims to be processed.
“The system is not working as it should,” Miller said. “The growing number of inland claims we see now reflects a system under strain. Many claimants, often with little hope of staying in Canada through other pathways, are being counselled—sometimes unjustly—to file asylum claims they may not be eligible for.”
Inland asylum claims are those submitted within Canada, rather than at ports of entry. Individuals must reside in the country for at least two weeks before filing such claims. Between January and September 2024, 635 inland claims were processed, according to government data.
Miller also noted a rising trend of international students filing asylum claims, further complicating the system.
During Miller’s testimony, tensions ran high as protesters from the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change interrupted the proceedings. Holding signs reading, “Don’t deport us! Don’t be racist! Rights not cuts! Status for All!” they accused the government of targeting migrants unfairly.
As Miller exited the committee room, one protester declared, “We are the people you’re trying to kick out of this country.” The group of about 20 individuals was escorted from the premises by parliamentary protective services.
NDP immigration critic Jenny Kwan challenged Miller on the government’s recent immigration changes, suggesting that migrants were being scapegoated for broader issues like the housing crisis.
Miller responded by emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
“Becoming a permanent resident or a Canadian citizen is not a right; otherwise, it would dilute its value,” Miller said. “That said, people must also be treated fairly. Those who come to Canada on temporary visas must respect the terms of their stay.”
Miller acknowledged the complexity of the issue, highlighting the government’s target to draw 40% of new permanent residents from individuals already living in Canada.
As of the end of September, nearly 250,000 refugee claims were awaiting decisions. In the same period, 48,000 asylum claims had been processed since the beginning of the year.