Canada is experiencing a significant drop in refugee claims as the government tightens visa regulations, sparking concerns that legitimate asylum-seekers are being left with limited options.

According to data from the Immigration and Refugee Board, 11,840 people filed refugee claims in Canada in January, marking a decline from the peak of 19,821 in July. This was the lowest monthly figure recorded since September 2023. The drop comes as Canada aims to manage migration levels and ease pressure on public services, a move that aligns with a broader shift in immigration policies.

Government data reveals that visitor visas issued last year fell to approximately 1.5 million from 1.8 million in 2023. Certain countries, which have historically been major sources of refugee claimants, saw particularly sharp declines. The number of visitor visas granted to Bangladeshi citizens fell from 45,322 to 27,975, while Haitians and Nigerians saw reductions from 8,984 to 5,487 and from 79,378 to 51,828, respectively.

Similarly, visitor visas for citizens from countries with high refugee acceptance rates also declined. In 2023, Canada granted 468 visas to Afghans, but only 330 last year. Iranians, Ugandans, Syrians, and Kenyans also faced reductions in visa approvals.

Despite the drop in new claims, the backlog remains at historic levels, with 278,457 cases pending in January. Canada does not have a dedicated asylum-seeker visa program, leaving individuals to seek entry as visitors, students, or workers, or attempt irregular crossings, which remain challenging due to strict border agreements with the United States.

The government argues that the increased scrutiny on visa applications from countries with high rates of misuse is meant to ensure that the asylum system remains accessible to those in genuine need. However, advocates warn that these restrictions are leaving many displaced individuals in dire situations.

Diana Gallego, co-executive director of the FCJ Refugee Centre in Toronto, expressed concerns that the current policies are forcing people to take dangerous risks. "If people are fleeing persecution, the only way some of them may find safe haven is through an exit visa," she said. "If not, they are forced to cross borders on foot, putting their lives in danger."

While the Canadian government insists the measures protect the integrity of the asylum system, critics argue that they create invisible barriers, leaving vulnerable people with few safe alternatives.