Canada sets 60-day deadline for asylum applications

Canada has implemented new rules for asylum applications, effective immediately, requiring claimants to submit a single online application. Claimants seeking asylum within Canada will first answer questions on the department's online portal, followed by an in-person appointment with an immigration officer to formally submit their claim.

Those eligible for referral to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) have 60 days to submit their completed application and necessary documents, with a one-time 30-day extension available upon request. The new process aims to streamline claims processing and reduce delays, with the immigration minister reviewing information and documents before cases are referred to the board.

Additional reforms establish time limits for government reviews on security, criminality, admissibility, and programme integrity, ensuring only prepared cases are sent to the board. Clarifications are provided for withdrawn claims, work permit support, and exceptions for unaccompanied minors and individuals who register their asylum intention within the first year in Canada.

These reforms are part of Canada's broader efforts to modernize its immigration and asylum systems, following the passage of Bill C-12 in March 2026.