Millions in Canada Face Visa Expiry as Enforcement Backlog Raises Concerns
Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner has warned that up to five million people in Canada could have expired or expiring visas by the end of this year. She raised the issue in Parliament while questioning the government’s ability to manage temporary resident overstays.
Rempel Garner said that at the current removal rate of about 22,000 people per year, it could take more than 200 years to address the backlog. She described the situation as a growing administrative challenge.
Rising Temporary Resident Numbers
Canada has seen a sharp increase in temporary residents in recent years. This group includes international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors.
Government data shows temporary residents now form a significant share of Canada’s population. Many permits issued during the post-pandemic period are now approaching expiry.
Officials do not publicly track exact exit numbers. This creates uncertainty around how many permit holders remain after expiry.
Questions Raised in Parliament
During a parliamentary exchange, Rempel Garner asked the Immigration Minister how the government plans to manage expiring visas. She said the response did not provide a clear plan.
Opposition members argue that immigration targets increased without matching enforcement capacity. They say planning gaps now affect system credibility.
The issue has sparked renewed debate on immigration oversight and transparency.
Government Position and Enforcement Limits
Federal officials have previously stated that many temporary residents leave Canada voluntarily. Enforcement agencies prioritize cases involving security or public safety risks.
Legal processes, appeals, and diplomatic considerations can slow removals. These factors limit how quickly enforcement agencies act.
Growing Policy Focus
Immigration experts say the issue highlights the need for better data tracking. Clear exit records could help guide future policy decisions.
As immigration remains a central political issue, pressure is increasing for detailed planning. Parliament is expected to revisit temporary resident policies in upcoming sessions.
