Canada is working with the United States to address challenges deporting migrants to countries reluctant to accept them, according to a government document reviewed by Reuters. The cooperation comes as both nations intensify efforts to remove individuals who are in their countries illegally.
Since President Donald Trump began his second term in January, U.S. immigration enforcement has escalated, though deportations have been hampered by foreign governments refusing to accept their nationals or issue travel documents. Canada faces similar issues as its deportations hit a decade high in 2024, particularly targeting failed refugee claimants.
A February email from Canada’s Immigration Department indicated joint efforts with the U.S. to manage “recalcitrant” countries. While there is no formal bilateral agreement, Canada’s Border Services Agency (CBSA) confirmed regular collaboration with U.S. law enforcement on border security and removals.
The CBSA aims to increase deportations from 18,000 last fiscal year to 20,000 annually over the next two years. Officials recently issued a single-use travel document to deport a Somali national after Somalia declined to provide papers.
The policy shift coincides with heightened political tensions. When the email was sent, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was preparing to leave office, succeeded in March by Mark Carney, while Trump threatened tariffs over migrants entering the U.S. from Canada.
Immigration remains a divisive issue in Canada, with critics linking rising migration to housing shortages and higher living costs. Refugee advocates warn the accelerated deportation process risks sending individuals back to dangerous conditions before their appeals are resolved.
Both countries continue to face obstacles from uncooperative foreign governments, highlighting the complexities of managing illegal immigration and cross-border deportations in North America.