A hidden backlog within the Canada Border Services Agency reveals a startling reality: over 10,000 individuals are subject to active removal warrants that have lingered for more than a year. This exists despite the agency reporting record numbers of deportations, painting a complex picture of border enforcement challenges.
The agency currently manages an inventory of over 33,000 removal warrants. In the last twelve months alone, more than 22,000 people have been removed from Canada, a significant number, yet dwarfed by the sheer volume of outstanding orders. Nearly 30,000 removal cases were actively “in progress” as of late October.
The CBSA faces a relentless influx of people crossing Canadian borders – returning citizens, tourists, and those seeking asylum. This constant flow creates a dynamic situation where new cases are continually added to the system, outpacing efforts to resolve existing ones. The vast majority of those deemed inadmissible have violated immigration regulations, not committed criminal acts.
In fact, only a small fraction – 2.2 per cent – of those barred from Canada are flagged due to criminal activity. The overwhelming majority are individuals who have overstayed visas or otherwise failed to comply with the terms of their permits. Over 70 million people entered Canada through official ports of entry in the past year, inevitably leading to a continuous stream of non-compliance.
A dedicated team of approximately 550 inland investigators works tirelessly to locate individuals with outstanding warrants. However, their resources are often stretched thin, as the CBSA also handles critical responsibilities like drug trafficking prevention and facilitating legitimate trade. Staffing levels fluctuate based on perceived risk and evolving priorities.
Law enforcement agencies across the country have access to CBSA warrant information, leading to incidental arrests during routine traffic stops. Public tips also play a crucial role in locating individuals subject to removal orders, providing valuable leads for inland investigations. Approximately 400 people are removed from Canada each week.
The challenge is likened to bailing water from a bathtub while the tap is still running. For every 9,500 warrants closed in the last two fiscal years, another 7,000 were added to the inventory, highlighting the persistent imbalance between enforcement and new cases. The system is constantly replenishing itself.
The federal government recently announced plans to hire 1,000 additional CBSA officers, a move intended to bolster enforcement capabilities. However, the recruitment and training process will unfold over three years, ensuring that new hires possess the necessary skills and experience to effectively address the complex challenges of border security.
