05/04/2026
🚨 Bill C-12, Now Law - IRCC is issuing PFLs affecting around 30,000 asylum seekers
Canada has officially passed Bill C-12 (Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act), and its impact is already being felt.
📅 On March 26, 2026, the law received Royal Assent.
📩 Now, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is issuing Procedural Fairness Letters (PFLs) to refugee claimants across the country.
👉 The government has confirmed that over 30,000 asylum seekers could be affected.
⚠️ What’s Happening?
Many claimants are being told their case may be ineligible for a full hearing at the
Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
Even individuals already in the system are receiving these letters.
📌 Two New Eligibility Rules
(Apply to claims made on/after June 3, 2025)
1️⃣ One-Year Rule
If you applied for asylum more than 1 year after your first entry into Canada (after June 24, 2020), your claim may be rejected.
2️⃣ 14-Day Rule
If you entered between ports of entry (Canada–U.S. border) and waited more than 14 days to file your claim, you may be found ineligible.
❗ What This Means
If your claim is found ineligible:
• ❌ No full hearing at IRB
• 🚨 File transferred to Canada Border Services Agency
• 📄 Possible Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) (paper-based, limited protections)
• ⚠️ Work permits may be affected
👉 A PFL is NOT a removal order, but it is serious.
⏳ Most people get 21 days to respond
🛑 What You Should Do
If you receive a PFL, do NOT ignore it.
You may have options:
✅ Respond with evidence and legal arguments
✅ Apply for PRRA
✅ Seek Judicial Review at Federal Court
✅ Consider Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) application
⚖️ Final Word
This is a major shift in Canada’s asylum system.
Every case is different, professional legal advice is critical. Legal aid clinics and refugee organizations may be able to help if cost is a concern.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized guidance, consult a licensed immigration professional.