A group of twelve individuals who participated in a prolonged international student demonstration in northeast Calgary are now facing potential immigration issues and may be required to depart Canada, as per an immigration attorney’s assessment. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) confirmed that officers were called to the protest location to examine the immigration statuses of attendees. Out of the 20 individuals checked, 12 were flagged as potentially inadmissible under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
The CBSA spokesperson stated that the identified individuals were requested to appear at the CBSA office for a follow-up interview later that day, with no further details disclosed due to privacy regulations. The agency emphasized that individuals subject to immigration enforcement actions, including removal from Canada, have the right to due legal process.
The protest, centered around work permit issues, was staged by international graduates and their supporters near the Genesis Centre at Saddletowne Circle. Similar protests are also taking place in Edmonton, where Alberta students have engaged in hunger strikes to highlight the matter.
Some graduates from Portage College alleged that they were led to believe they would qualify for post-graduation work permits upon completing their studies, only to have their applications denied. Portage College is seeking clarification from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regarding the issue.
The Calgary Police Service sought assistance from the CBSA on Wednesday during the demonstration after receiving complaints about noise disturbances, obstructing businesses, and public intoxication. The police discovered individuals setting up unauthorized structures and requested identification, leading to the involvement of the CBSA for verification.
Jatin Shory, an immigration lawyer representing a group of students contesting work permit rejections, cautioned against participating in public protests. He emphasized the unique nature of the situation and the potential consequences faced by undocumented individuals. Shory highlighted that the CBSA has the authority to investigate tips and indicated a shifting landscape in Canadian immigration enforcement.
While the outcome of the interviews with the 12 individuals remains undisclosed, Shory suggested that receiving an exclusion order is a common next step for those without legal status in Canada. An exclusion order mandates immediate departure from Canada, confirmation of exit with the CBSA, and a one-year prohibition on reentry. Legal options to challenge the order exist but are challenging to succeed in, potentially resulting in enforced removal within weeks.