Canada Tightens Entry Rules: Visa Rejections on the Rise for Foreign Travellers

Canada has seen a significant increase in visa rejections and denied entry for foreign travellers in recent months. The primary reason cited by the government is the country’s ongoing housing shortage and rising costs, which have strained resources for accommodating migrants.

While Canada has traditionally been known for its welcoming immigration policies, public sentiment has shifted in recent years, with more Canadians expressing concerns about the pace of immigration. This changing attitude appears to be influencing the decisions of border and immigration officials.

Record High Entry Refusals

In July 2024, Canada denied entry to 5,853 foreign travellers, including students, workers, and tourists. This figure marks the highest number of refusals since at least January 2019, according to previously unreported data from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

From January to July 2024, border officers turned away an average of 3,727 foreign travellers per month. This represents a 20% increase, or 633 more people, compared to the same period in the previous year.

Key Points

• Record High Denials: 5,853 travellers were denied entry in July 2024.
• Affected Groups: Includes students, workers, and tourists.
• Monthly Average: 3,727 travellers turned away per month from January to July 2024.
• Year-over-Year Increase: 20% increase, or 633 more people, compared to the same period in 2023.
• Tighter Scrutiny: Reflects stricter border control measures amid housing and immigration concerns.

Also Read: Canada’s New Work Hour Cap for International Students: Key Changes Explained

Increased Inadmissibility Findings

In July 2024, CBSA officers found 285 visa holders inadmissible, the highest number recorded since at least January 2019.

A spokesperson from the CBSA explained that these findings can vary due to shifts in migration patterns or policy changes, emphasizing that decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

The CBSA did not point to any specific policy changes, reiterating that their role in assessing the admissibility of individuals entering Canada has remained consistent.

Higher Rejection Rates for Visitor Visas

The rejection rate for visitor visa applications reached its highest level in June 2024 since the height of the pandemic. In January, February, May, and June 2024, the number of rejected visitor visa applications exceeded those approved, as per immigration department data.

Also Read: Canada Ends Work Permit Applications for Visitors: New Rules Explained

Decline in Study and Work Permits

There has also been a noticeable decline in the number of approved study and work permits in Canada, dropping from the peak levels seen in 2022 and 2023. Immigration Minister Marc Miller addressed the issue in August, stating that “Canadians want a system that is not out of control.”

Govt’s Stance on Immigration Policies

Miller’s spokesperson affirmed that the immigration department remains committed to applying policies and procedures fairly and without discrimination.

The spokesperson also attributed the decline in approved study permits to a cap announced in January, though the downward trend appeared to have started in the previous year.

Conclusion

The tightening of Canada’s immigration and visa approval processes reflects the growing concerns among Canadians about housing shortages and immigration levels. The impact on foreign travellers, students, and workers remains significant as the government continues to balance these issues.