Canada Unveils New Immigration Rules for Nigerians

Canada has implemented new immigration and asylum regulations that will significantly impact Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking entry into the country. These changes follow the passage of Bill C-12, known as the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System Border Act, which received royal assent on March 26, 2026.

The new rules introduce stricter eligibility requirements for asylum seekers, revamp the application process, and expand information-sharing powers among immigration authorities. Notably, asylum claims made on or after June 24, 2020, will not be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada if the individual entered Canada at a land border and claimed asylum after 14 days.

The changes aim to reduce pressure on the asylum system, close loopholes, and discourage misuse of refugee pathways. Additionally, the new provisions will allow for the sharing of applicant data within government institutions while maintaining privacy safeguards.

These reforms are expected to have significant implications for Nigerian migrants seeking to study, work, or claim asylum in Canada.