Canada Spends Millions on Deportations as Removals Reach Highest Levels in Years
Canada — The federal government spent tens of millions of dollars on deportations in 2024 as removal numbers rose sharply.
Ottawa spent about $78 million to deport roughly 18,000 people, the highest total in over a decade, surpassing levels last seen under former prime minister Stephen Harper.
The costs include flights, border services operations, and enforcement activities.
Officials and advocates say the rising expenditure and deportation pace reflect growing pressure on Canada’s immigration system.
Record Deportation Numbers
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) detained and removed large numbers of foreign nationals in 2024.
By late 2024, data showed deportations reached levels not seen in nearly a decade.
In 2024, about 18,000 people were removed from Canada, a figure comparable to the peak under the Harper government.
This spike follows increased enforcement and faster removal processing, especially for failed refugee claimants.
Advocates note that most removals involve individuals whose refugee applications were denied.
Around 7,300 deportations in 2024 were linked to rejected asylum claims.
Who Is Being Removed
Many deportees include people whose claims for refugee protection were unsuccessful.
About four in five removals in recent reporting were for this reason.
Others face removal for non‑compliance with immigration rules, such as overstaying a visa or working without authorization.
Criminal convictions also account for a smaller share of removals.
Immigration advocates argue that some people face deportation before they finish appeal processes.
Critics say this raises concerns about fairness and the risk of returning individuals to unsafe situations.
Government Rationale and Costs
Officials say deportations uphold the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.
Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, the CBSA must remove those without legal status.
Supporters of enforcement say removals deter illegal stays and protect jobs and public services.
However, migrant groups contend that high costs divert funds from integration and support programs.
The growing deportation budget reflects a broader shift toward enforcement in recent years.
As Ottawa adjusts immigration targets and strengthens border policies, deportation spending may remain high.
