Canadian Immigration News

Canada Announces Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act

In a June 20 announcement, the Canadian Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism has introduced proposed legislation to expedite the removal of foreign criminals from Canada to enhance the safety and security of Canadians.

Under the new Act, permanent residents in Canada convicted of a crime and jailed for six months or more in the country would have their immigrant status revoked with no right to appeal.

According to Minister Kenney, the Government of Canada was putting a stop to foreign criminals relying on endless appeals in order to delay their removal from Canada during which time they continue to terrorize innocent Canadians.

"Canadians are generous and welcoming people, but they have no tolerance for criminals and fraudsters abusing our generosity." he said.

Focusing on three areas, the Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act would:

• Make it easier for the Government to remove dangerous foreign criminals from our country;
• Make it harder for those who may pose a risk to Canada to enter the country in the first place; and
• Remove barriers for genuine visitors who want to come to Canada.

The Government is delivering on its commitment to streamline the process to deport convicted criminals by limiting their access to the Immigration and Refugee Board’s Immigration Appeal Division via the Faster Removal of Foreign Criminals Act. Thanks to the Act, the amount of time certain criminals may remain in Canada will be reduced by up to 14 months. Similarly, their chances of committing more crime on Canadian soil will be reduced as well.

If you are interested in Immigration to Canada, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to Canada.