Can a Visitor in Canada Who Has Stayed for 2 Weeks Seek Asylum?

No, you cannot use false asylum claims to defraud the immigration system by posing as a tourist and then seeking asylum in Canada.

Why Are You Asking?

Before answering your concerns, it would be useful to understand your current situation. Are you in Canada, planning to enter from the United States, or still in your home country? Your plan likely involves entry into Canada, either from the United States or directly from your home country, to make a more favorable asylum claim.

Asylum Claim Strategies

A common strategy is to stay in Canada for a short period and then make an asylum claim, hoping that the Safe Third Country Agreement will no longer apply. The revised agreement has led to fewer precedents and increased scrutiny, making it harder to claim that you can no longer be returned to the United States.

Impact on Canadian Immigration Policies

There is a significant burden on Canadian government resources due to increasing asylum applications and perceived abuse of the system. The federal government has already spent $500 million this year supporting thousands of asylum claimants, many of whom are seen as economic migrants rather than genuine refugees.

Current Housing Crisis and Migrant Perceptions

The cost of housing in Canada has become a critical issue, with working Canadians facing difficulties finding affordable housing. In contrast, newly arrived asylum claimants often receive financial and housing support from the government, leading to resentment and frustration among local residents.

Government Resilience and Public Sentiment

Recently, the governing party in the federal government lost a key by-election after holding the seat for 30 years. This signals a growing public dissatisfaction with the influx of migrants and economic migrants, suggesting that the political landscape is shifting.

Future Changes and Precedents

Due to a 62 percent increase in asylum applications, the federal government has announced plans to more quickly identify and deport those without legitimate claims. The revised Safe Third Country agreement will likely lead to stricter enforcement and fewer precedents for short-term stays followed by asylum claims.

Considering Legal Immigration Options

Instead of attempting to evade immigration policies, it may be more beneficial to consider meeting the requirements for legal immigration as an economic migrant. This approach involves demonstrating skills, education, and a potential contribution to the Canadian economy, rather than relying on the as yet unproven advantages of making a claim after a short stay.

Given the current climate and government changes, planning a legal and transparent immigration path is crucial for long-term success and avoiding the pitfalls of false asylum claims.