Canada has recently faced criticism as it increases the number of foreign

Canada has recently faced criticism as it increases the number of foreign travellers rejected at its borders, alongside approving fewer visas. The uptick in rejections and stricter immigration measures have sparked debate as the federal government faces pressure to address concerns over housing shortages, rising costs, and employment opportunities.

In July 2024, Canada turned away over 5,800 foreign travellers, marking the highest monthly figure since 2019. Border officials reported a 20% increase in the number of travellers denied entry during the first half of the year. This rise in rejections affects various groups, including students, workers, and tourists, even those with valid documentation. At the same time, Canada has also seen a decline in visa approvals, particularly for visitor visas, study permits, and work permits. This trend extends back to early 2024, with refusal rates surpassing approval rates in multiple months.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller has acknowledged that Canadians want a more controlled immigration system, leading to recent policy shifts. One significant factor contributing to the rise in rejections is a stricter application of immigration and entry rules by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Visa holders have faced greater scrutiny, with some being encouraged to return to their countries to avoid potential deportation risks.

Additionally, changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program are expected to impact industries reliant on foreign labor. New restrictions will limit employers' ability to hire temporary foreign workers and shorten the employment duration through the low-wage stream. These shifts are intended to prioritize Canadian workers and address concerns about the growing number of foreign workers contributing to the labor market.

This comes amid broader concerns about the housing crisis, with immigration cited as one of the factors driving up demand and costs. Polls indicate that a growing number of Canadians feel the country is admitting too many immigrants, which is reflected in tighter border enforcement and visa rejections. However, the government has stressed that these changes are meant to ensure a fair and balanced system.