Canadian authorities and migrant aid organizations are preparing for a potential increase in asylum-seekers entering from the U.S., following President-elect Donald Trump’s renewed commitment to strict immigration enforcement and large-scale deportations. With a recent record surge in refugee claims, Canadian border officials are bracing for increased attempts at crossing the border, particularly in Quebec.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have been preparing for months. Sergeant Charles Poirier confirmed they anticipated an influx, saying, “If he [Trump] comes into power… it could drive illegal migration and irregular migration into Quebec and into Canada.”
Poirier noted that border security may need to expand resources to cover larger areas if crossings spike, with plans potentially involving hundreds of officers, buses, trailers, and rented land for additional patrolling.
While the well-known Roxham Road crossing at the Quebec-New York border was closed in March following an expanded bilateral border agreement between the U.S. and Canada, immigrants now face increased risks attempting to cross undetected.
Advocates warn of the dangers involved as asylum-seekers must evade authorities for two weeks before claiming asylum.
The Refugee Centre’s director, Abdulla Daoud, expressed concerns over the limited options for safe migration. “People are going to try to do the impossible,” Daoud said, calling for expanded support for newcomers. Loly Rico of Toronto’s FCJ Refugee Centre also noted rising demand, with the center already assisting dozens of new arrivals weekly.
As winter approaches, she worries about the potential dangers for asylum-seekers braving the elements, recalling a tragic incident last year when a family of four froze to death near Emerson, Manitoba.
With nearly 250,000 asylum claims pending and a historically high number of monthly claims, Canada’s immigration infrastructure faces unprecedented pressure. Aid groups are urging the government to bolster asylum resources to manage the likely uptick.
Although Immigration Minister Marc Miller acknowledged contingency plans are in place, specifics have not been disclosed.
The situation remains tense as Canada’s immigration department pledges to address the needs of both Canadians and potential asylum-seekers.
For now, both officials and advocates are calling for heightened preparation and a more robust support system to manage the expected challenges at the border.
