By Ahlawat Law PC On June 3, 2025, Bill C-2, known as the “Strong Borders Act,” was introduced in the House of Commons, proposing substantial amendments across various Canadian statutes. This legislative initiative aims to fortify Canada’s border security and introduce an array of related measures. For those navigating Canada’s immigration and refugee landscape, several key changes are particularly noteworthy. Information Sharing Enhancements (Part 6) Part 6 of the “Strong Borders Act” introduces new provisions regarding the sharing of personal information within the Department of Citizenship and Immigration and with other governmental entities. The Minister of Citizenship and Immigration would be empowered to disclose personal information under the Department’s control for purposes related to the administration or enforcement of federal or provincial laws, or in the exercise of their duties under statutory or other lawful authority. Such disclosures would typically occur under a written agreement or arrangement specifying the information to be shared, the purpose of disclosure, and any limitations on its subsequent use or transfer. A crucial safeguard is also introduced: provincial governments and Crown corporations receiving personal information under these provisions would be prohibited from disclosing it to foreign entities unless the Minister provides written consent and the disclosure aligns with Canada’s international obligations concerning mistreatment. Furthermore, the Bill explicitly allows for regulations governing the disclosure of information collected under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to other federal departments and agencies for cooperative purposes. Reforms to the In-Canada Asylum System (Part 7) Part 7 of the Bill introduces significant changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, particularly impacting the in-Canada asylum system. Measures Regarding Applications and Documents (Part 8) Part 8 grants broad powers to the Governor in Council concerning immigration applications and documents, driven by public interest considerations. New Grounds for Ineligibility (Part 9) Part 9 introduces new criteria for ineligibility for refugee protection claims. Conclusion The “Strong Borders Act” proposes a comprehensive set of legislative changes that will significantly impact Canada’s immigration and refugee system. Understanding these amendments is crucial for individuals, families, and organizations involved in immigration and refugee processes. As this Bill progresses through Parliament, it will be essential to monitor its development and eventual coming into force dates to understand the full scope of its implications. Disclaimer: This blog post provides a general overview of the proposed changes in the “Strong Borders Act” (Bill C-2) based on the provided document. It is not intended as legal advice, and its content should not be relied upon as such. For specific legal guidance regarding your individual circumstances, please consult with a qualified legal professional.