Canada is considering a significant change in its immigration policy that may lead to the mass cancellation of temporary visas, particularly affecting applicants from India and Bangladesh. Internal documents reviewed by CBC News indicate that the Canadian government is looking to empower its immigration department to revoke temporary resident visas (TRVs) collectively, rather than on a case-by-case basis, if there is substantial evidence of misuse or fraud.

The proposed measure would allow the immigration minister to act swiftly in situations involving fraud, war, or health crises, enabling the cancellation of visas issued under specific circumstances. This initiative is part of a broader immigration reform aimed at addressing loopholes that have resulted in a backlog of applications and allegations of misuse of temporary visas.

The discussions come in light of a notable increase in asylum claims from Indian nationals, which surged from fewer than 500 per month in May 2023 to approximately 2,000 by July 2024. Last year, over 20,245 asylum claims were filed by international students, with India and Nigeria being the leading countries.

Concerns have been raised by advocacy groups regarding the potential implications of this mass cancellation plan. More than 300 civil society organizations have expressed their worries, with some arguing that such powers could lead to a "mass deportation machine." Immigration lawyers have also questioned whether this move is aimed at reducing the growing backlog of applications.

The Canadian government has indicated that the proposed changes are necessary for public interest and to enhance control over immigration documents. The legislation, known as Bill C-2, aims to amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) to strengthen the government's authority over immigration processes. This includes provisions for the cancellation, suspension, and management of immigration applications from foreign nationals seeking various immigration documents.