Immigration Announcement
Venezuelans Seeking Asylum in Canada: A Growing Trend Amid U.S. Deportation Threats
As the U.S. gears up to revoke protections for hundreds of thousands of migrants, many Venezuelans seeking asylum in Canada are now turning their attention north — and not always through official routes.
The recent shift in American immigration policy under the Trump administration is causing concern for Venezuelans, Haitians, Cubans, and Nicaraguans. With deportations already underway and more expected, many are urgently searching for safer options. And for some, that path now leads straight to Canada — through both legal and illegal means.
Why Are Venezuelans Leaving the U.S.?
Venezuelans in the U.S. were granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under the Biden administration. This shielded them from deportation and allowed them to work legally. But now, the Trump administration is reversing that protection, impacting more than 500,000 people.
Deportations have already begun. Some migrants with alleged gang ties have been sent back to Venezuela, including those accused of connections to the Tren de Aragua gang — now labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S.
Many Venezuelans fear they could be sent home under similar accusations, even if innocent. With their future in the U.S. now uncertain, the Canadian border looks increasingly appealing — especially since Canada currently does not deport Venezuelans due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country.
From California to Quebec: The Northern Shift
Canadian immigration consultants based in the U.S. are witnessing this trend firsthand.
Annie Beaudoin, a consultant working with Venezuelan clients in California, says more people are exploring Canada as a safer alternative. Many are unaware they could qualify to immigrate legally — especially those working in healthcare, agriculture, or skilled trades.
Instead, they often fall prey to misinformation or unlicensed operators who charge large sums to smuggle them across the border illegally. Desperation and fear drive these decisions, even when a safer, lawful path may be available.
Some migrants arrive at legal border crossings. Others, fearing deportation if turned back under the Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA), choose to cross irregularly — hoping to claim asylum once inside Canada.
How the Safe Third Country Agreement Affects Claims
Under the STCA, migrants must request asylum in the first safe country they enter — usually the U.S. This rule means most asylum seekers arriving at Canadian land borders are returned to America, unless they qualify for a specific exception (such as having close family in Canada).
But there’s a loophole. If migrants avoid detection for 14 days after crossing illegally into Canada, they can submit a refugee claim without being automatically returned. Some Venezuelans are reportedly aware of this and are timing their claims accordingly.
For example, one Venezuelan father sent his children — who had relatives in Canada — ahead to enter legally. He attempted to follow but was denied due to not meeting the familial criteria. He then crossed irregularly and filed for asylum after waiting 14 days.
Border Crossings Increase with Better Weather
As spring arrives and conditions improve, authorities are preparing for more irregular crossings.
The RCMP is increasing patrols at known crossing points, using Black Hawk helicopters and surveillance towers along the U.S.-Canada border. In Ontario, boat patrols on the Great Lakes are also being reactivated to stop unauthorized entries.
Still, the number of asylum claims remains steady. In January 2025:
- 126 people claimed asylum after being caught crossing illegally.
- 75 more filed inland refugee claims in provinces like Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia.
Consultants say many Venezuelans are trying to avoid these high-risk situations but lack access to accurate immigration advice.
Legal Immigration Options Often Overlooked
It’s important to know that some Venezuelans seeking asylum in Canada might qualify for standard immigration programs instead:
- Express Entry (CEC or FSW) for skilled workers.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), especially for in-demand occupations.
- Family Sponsorship if close relatives reside in Canada.
- Work Permits or LMIA-based pathways, especially in healthcare, trades, and agriculture.
Yet, many don’t realize these options exist — or assume asylum is their only hope.
Consultants like Mario Gabriel de Oliveira Machado, himself from Venezuela, say the key lies in better outreach and education. He’s noticed a spike in calls from Venezuelans in the U.S. since February, many of whom are eager to build a future in Canada.
Final Thoughts on Venezuelans Seeking Asylum in Canada
The rise in Venezuelans seeking asylum in Canada is a direct result of shifting immigration policies south of the border. While desperation is driving some toward illegal crossings, the truth is that many have legal alternatives — if they can access the right support.
Canada remains a place of hope and safety for those fleeing instability. But the journey must be handled wisely. The best path forward? Seek trusted immigration advice and explore all available options — legal, secure, and built to last.
