The Government of Canada has introduced the Strong Borders Act, a proposed piece of legislation designed to improve border security, disrupt transnational organised crime, and maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system, on June 3rd, 2025.
The bill was tabled in the House of Commons by Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree in Ottawa.
According to reporting from Immigration News Canada (INC), the bill is a key part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to modernise border enforcement and immigration processes. It builds on the Canadian Border Plan, which includes a $1.3 billion investment announced in late 2024, and aligns with bilateral cooperation efforts with the United States on security and migration.
Expanded Enforcement Powers at Borders
The Strong Borders Act proposes amendments to several laws to give law enforcement more authority in monitoring and controlling cross-border activity.
Amendments to the Customs Act would require transporters and warehouse operators at ports of entry and exit to provide space and infrastructure for inspections by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). The CBSA would also gain access to perform export inspections, targeting illegal goods like drugs and weapons.
The Oceans Act would be revised to allow the Canadian Coast Guard to participate in security operations and intelligence gathering. “Expanding the Canadian Coast Guard’s services to include security activities will help ensure the protection and sovereignty of our vast coasts and waterways,” said Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson.
The bill also modifies the Sex Offender Information Registration Act to support information sharing by the RCMP with U.S. and other international partners.
Immigration System Overhaul
The proposed legislation includes major changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to address inefficiencies and manage pressures on Canada’s immigration system.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) would be given authority to share client data across jurisdictions, suspend or modify immigration documentation, and temporarily halt application processing during emergencies.
The asylum system would be streamlined with digital processing and quicker claim decisions. Claims must be processed while the claimant is in Canada. Voluntary departures would lead to same-day removal orders. Late or irregular claims would be deemed ineligible unless the applicant qualifies for a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA).
The bill seeks to end “flagpoling,” the practice of leaving and re-entering Canada to receive expedited immigration services at the border. “We’re improving security at the Canadian-US border and making our immigration and asylum systems stronger,” said Minister of Immigration, Lena Metlege Diab.
Measures Against Organised Crime and Fentanyl
To fight transnational crime, amendments are proposed to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and Cannabis Act, allowing for quicker regulation of drug precursors. Health Minister Marjorie Michel said the bill “will give Canada stronger tools in the fight against fentanyl.”
Amendments to the Criminal Code and CSIS Act aim to modernise investigative powers. A new Supporting Authorised Access to Information Act (SAAIA) would require electronic service providers to comply with lawful access and interception orders.
Changes to the Canada Post Corporation Act would allow authorities to search and inspect mail, subject to legal authorisation. “The proposed amendments will help prevent thousands of overdoses and save lives,” said Minister Joël Lightbound.
Financial Crime Prevention and New Resources
The bill enhances Canada’s anti-money laundering regime by updating the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. It increases penalties for violations, imposes cash transaction restrictions, and expands the role of the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).
Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne said, “This bill will strengthen supervision and enforcement to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.”
The government also plans to recruit 1,000 additional RCMP and CBSA personnel. These new staff, including border officers and analysts, are part of Canada’s strategy to strengthen enforcement and intelligence capabilities.
Broader Context and Implications
The legislation addresses Canadian domestic priorities and international concerns. It responds to U.S. calls for tighter fentanyl and migration controls, including President Donald Trump’s recent threats to impose tariffs on Canadian goods over border-related issues.
The proposed law reinforces the Safe Third Country Agreement and strengthens bilateral cooperation through a planned North American “joint strike force.”
The immigration reforms target fraud and system abuse, especially among temporary residents. Enhanced screening has already reduced irregular crossings by international students. The bill also introduces protections for vulnerable migrants and enforcement against unethical immigration consultants.
