Maple News reports that a broad immigration reform bill, Bill C-12, has cleared committee review and is poised to advance to third reading without any amendments. If enacted in its current form, the bill would vest the Governor in Council with wide-ranging executive powers over Canada’s immigration system.
The proposed authorities would allow the government to vary, cancel, or suspend immigration documents—such as work permits, study permits, and permanent resident visas—and to cease accepting, suspend, or terminate the processing of immigration applications. The bill would also permit the imposition of conditions on temporary residents. Officials say these powers could be exercised in matters deemed to be in the public interest.
Additionally, the legislation contemplates a significant overhaul of Canada’s asylum framework, signaling a comprehensive shift in how refugee claims are processed and managed at the border.
Bill C-12, titled An Act respecting certain measures relating to the security of Canada’s borders and the integrity of the Canadian immigration system and respecting other related security measures, was referred by the Senate to the Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Veterans Affairs earlier this month. In its February 25, 2026 meeting, the committee reported the bill back to the Senate with no amendments and recommended moving to a third reading.
With the Senate set to take up third-reading debate on February 26, 2026, lawmakers will decide whether to pass the bill as written, approve potential amendments, or reject it. If the bill clears the Senate unamended, it would proceed to royal assent and become law. Analysts note that while the bill aims to streamline border control and immigration administration, its broad powers raise questions about oversight, due process, and the potential impact on asylum processing. Maple News will continue closely monitoring developments as the third-reading process unfolds.