On December 17, 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced several transformative changes to Canada’s immigration system, aimed at curbing fraud, improving system efficiency, and strengthening border security. These reforms target various aspects of immigration management, including fraudulent job offers, border practices, and irregular migration.
Ending LMIA-Based Points in Express Entry
A major highlight of the reform is the removal of additional points for job offers supported by Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) under the Express Entry system. This change is designed to address growing concerns about fraud and exploitation in the LMIA process.
“This measure will reduce the incentive for individuals to purchase fraudulent job offers, ensuring fairness and integrity in the Express Entry system,” Miller stated.
The LMIA system, previously providing applicants with 50 to 200 points, had become a target for abuse, with job offers being sold for up to $70,000. By eliminating these points, the government aims to level the playing field for all applicants while focusing on genuine skills and experience.
Addressing Border Challenges: Ending ‘Flagpoling’
Another key reform involves the elimination of the practice known as “flagpoling,” where temporary residents leave and re-enter Canada at border points to expedite immigration services. Moving forward, applicants will need to use online systems for services like visa extensions, reducing strain on border resources and ensuring smoother operations.
This move is expected to improve border efficiency and enable officers to prioritize enforcement and critical migration activities.
Enhancing Document Controls and Fraud Prevention
Amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act will grant Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) greater authority to manage immigration documents. These changes include:
- Canceling, suspending, or modifying immigration documents in cases of fraud or security risks.
- Suspending or halting applications during instances of large-scale fraud or public safety concerns.
These measures underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding the immigration process from abuse while protecting public resources.
Tackling Irregular Migration
The reforms also address irregular migration by building on the expanded Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA). Since extending the agreement to cover the entire Canada-U.S. border, irregular crossings have dropped from 165 per day in early 2023 to just 12 per day. The government has also imposed partial visa requirements on Mexican nationals, resulting in a 92% drop in asylum claims from Mexico.
Strengthening Collaboration and Security
Canada is increasing collaboration with international partners to bolster border security and combat transnational organized crime. Proposed initiatives include:
- Improved information-sharing mechanisms with the U.S.
- Enhanced vetting processes for electronic travel authorizations (eTAs).
- The establishment of three regional hubs for coordinated law enforcement efforts.
Legislative Amendments for Mass Fraud Scenarios
The government plans to introduce legislative tools to swiftly suspend or cancel applications in cases of widespread fraud. These amendments aim to protect the credibility of Canada’s immigration system while ensuring its continued effectiveness.
The reforms are already delivering notable results:
- A 97% decrease in asylum claims from Mexican nationals following visa requirements.
- An 84% reduction in irregular crossings by Canadian visa holders into the U.S.
- A 61% visa refusal rate for countries with high levels of abuse.
Marc Miller emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining a humane yet robust immigration system. These changes are expected to modernize the immigration framework, ensuring Canada remains a desirable destination while preserving the integrity of its borders.
By addressing fraud, enhancing border efficiency, and promoting collaboration with international partners, Canada is taking significant steps toward a fairer, more secure immigration system. As these measures take effect, they promise to reinforce Canada’s reputation as a global leader in ethical and efficient immigration practices.
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