Cabasa Tightens Border Security Bill, Curbing Executive Power Over Immigration Files
Cabasa Tightens Border Security Bill
While some initiatives were announced in 2025, full program designs and intake periods are expected to roll out throughout 2026. Here is an in-depth look at all the pathways expected to shape next year’s immigration landscape.
Revised Bill Places Boundaries on Executive Intervention
- Stop the intake of new immigration applications.
- Pause or terminate applications already in processing
- Cancel, alter, or suspend official immigration documents such as work permits, study permits, visitor records, and permanent resident cards
- Change conditions attached to immigration documents
- Modify conditions imposed on temporary residents.
Sharp Decline in Temporary Resident Admissions
In a major policy shift, the federal government has announced plans to substantially reduce the number of temporary resident admissions beginning in 2026:
| Category | 2025 Target | 2026 Target | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Temporary Residents | 673,650 | 385,000 | ↓ 43% |
| International Students | 305,900 | 155,000 | ↓ 49% |
| Temporary Foreign Workers | 367,750 | 230,000 | ↓ 37% |
Committee Narrows Definition of ‘Public Interest’
The recent amendments introduce clear, restrictive criteria for invoking the bill’s emergency authorities. Under the new language, the federal government would be permitted to act only in cases involving:
- Administrative errors;
- Fraud or misrepresentation;
- Public health concerns;
- Public safety threats;
- National security issues.
New Transparency Requirements Added
To improve oversight, the amended bill now obligates the immigration minister to report to Parliament each time these extraordinary powers are used. The report must include:
- A detailed explanation for why the order was necessary.
- The categories or groups of people affected;
- The scope and anticipated duration of the measure.
Where the Bill Stands in Parliament
Bill C-12 is currently in the report stage in the House of Commons. During this phase, members of Parliament can debate the revised text and propose further changes before a final vote. To become law, the bill must:
- Pass third reading in the House of Commons;
- Move to the Senate for another round of readings and committee review.
- Be approved at third reading by the Senate;
- Receive Royal Assent.
Governor General’s Role Remains Advisory
Recent developments
- The existing EMPP ends December 31, 2025.
- Over 970 candidates have been admitted since the program’s inception.
- Federal announcements suggest a one-time initiative may transition up to 115,000 protected persons already in Canada to PR - potentially under the new pathway.
Key Questions for the Upcoming Plan
The commitment suggests yes, but actual numbers will reveal how strictly it is enforced.
With pressure to bring the share below 5% of the population, will student and worker permit caps tighten further?
Provinces may argue for greater allocations reflecting regional labor and demographic needs.
In particular, under Express Entry or provincial nomination, emphasizing skills, region, and language.
Housing, healthcare, and labor market absorption remain critical constraints. Reports flagged risks of population decline and housing gaps under previous levels.
Looking Ahead
