Why Refugee Numbers Are Increasing in Canada — And Why Provinces Like Québec Are Pushing Back
Canada has long been recognized as a global leader in refugee resettlement, consistently ranking among the top countries welcoming those fleeing war, persecution, and instability. However, a sharp increase in refugee and asylum claimants over the past few years has prompted renewed public debate—particularly among provincial governments, who are expressing concern over the rising financial and logistical burdens on local systems.
Understanding the Rise in Refugee Numbers
Several factors have contributed to the significant increase in refugee arrivals to Canada:
1. Global Displacement at Record Highs
The world is witnessing unprecedented levels of forced migration. By mid-2023, over 110 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide due to war, violence, persecution, or human rights violations, according to the UNHCR. As a result, many have turned to countries like Canada for safety and a new beginning.
2. Changes to the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA)
In March 2023, Canada and the United States updated the Safe Third Country Agreement, extending its scope to cover the entire Canada–U.S. border. Previously, asylum seekers could enter Canada through unofficial crossings like Roxham Road in Québec, but the new rules limit this option. Ironically, this move did not reduce asylum claims—it only changed the entry patterns, leading to new challenges for provinces and local agencies.
3. Canada’s Immigration Goals and Labor Market Gaps
Canada has set ambitious immigration targets to address labor shortages. While these policies don’t directly involve refugees, they contribute to the overall volume of newcomers and strain on services, especially in high-demand regions like Ontario and Québec.
4. Rising Asylum Claims from International Students
Another less discussed factor is the increase in refugee claims by international students and graduates. Many are struggling to find suitable employment or secure long-term immigration pathways and have turned to asylum claims as a last resort. Colleges saw a spike in claimants in 2022 and 2023, raising questions about student recruitment practices and post-graduation support.
5. Visa Policy Changes
Canada recently reimposed visa requirements on Mexican nationals in early 2024 after a sharp increase in refugee claims from Mexican citizens. The federal government cited concerns over the integrity of the asylum system and the high volume of claims that were eventually rejected.
The Provincial Perspective: Who Pays the Price?
While immigration is a federal responsibility, the provinces are responsible for delivering essential public services—such as health care, education, and housing. This division of jurisdiction has become a point of tension.
Provinces, especially Québec, are sounding the alarm over the financial and administrative pressure of welcoming large numbers of asylum seekers. These newcomers often require urgent housing, medical care, language instruction, and access to schooling for children—all of which fall under provincial jurisdiction.
Québec has been particularly vocal, noting that it received a disproportionate number of refugee claimants in recent years. The province is now asking the federal government to distribute refugee arrivals more evenly across the country and to provide greater financial compensation to help cover the cost of social services.
In the first quarter of 2023 alone, Québec received 64% of all asylum claims—a figure that only slightly declined later in the year as irregular entries shifted. Ontario followed closely, but the sheer volume landing in Montréal and other parts of Québec has overwhelmed shelters, schools, and public health systems.
Calls for Federal-Provincial Coordination
This situation highlights the need for stronger coordination between Ottawa and the provinces. While Canada’s humanitarian commitment remains strong, effective refugee resettlement depends on fair resource allocation and shared responsibilities.
Québec’s message to the federal government is clear: If immigration is your jurisdiction, ensure that its consequences are not borne unevenly by provincial taxpayers. More equitable resettlement planning and funding are not just practical—they are essential to maintaining public support for Canada’s refugee programs.
Final Thoughts
Canada continues to uphold its values of compassion and refuge in the face of global displacement. However, the current strain on provinces—particularly Québec—demands an honest reassessment of how we manage refugee arrivals and support integration. Immigration may be a federal responsibility, but its impact is profoundly local.