Asylum Seekers in Canada: Living on the Edge

Inside a Car, a Temporary Home

Peering into the vehicle, it becomes unmistakably clear that it has become a living space. Clothes hang from a hook on the passenger side, and in the backseat, a blanket, pillow, and eye mask suggest nights spent in uneasy slumber. This car is more than just a vehicle; it is the current home of an asylum seeker who, after being recently evicted from a government-leased hotel, now faces the chilling uncertainty of homelessness. For privacy reasons, CBC News has chosen not to disclose his identity, as his asylum claim remains unresolved, and he fears being sent back to his home country.

The man recounted his harsh reality: "It's very difficult. It's very cold at night," he said, describing the challenges of finding basic amenities like a restroom or a place to change clothes.

The Tightrope of Temporary Shelter

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has instituted guidelines for asylum seekers residing in government-funded hotels. Breaches of these rules can lead to swift evictions, often leaving individuals with no other option than to find shelter in their vehicles or on the streets—a grim prospect amid Canada's ongoing housing crisis.

The federal government recently announced a significant 20% reduction in its 2025 permanent residency targets, in response to growing public skepticism about immigration. Critics, including settlement agencies, argue that there is an acute lack of support systems to assist newcomers in acclimating successfully.

A Contentious Eviction

Arriving in Canada over two years ago via the unofficial border crossing at Roxham Road, the man found temporary refuge in a hotel in the Greater Toronto Area. A dispute with a roommate resulted in him receiving a three-day eviction notice, citing "failure to meet with IRCC representative" and "aggressive" behavior. The man acknowledges missing a meeting due to a scheduling error but vehemently denies any aggressive conduct.

His roommate confirmed the dispute but stated there was no physical aggression involved. Both were issued eviction notices, thrusting them into precarious circumstances—one ended up in bus shelters before finding community support.

Systemic Challenges and Legal Protections

In a statement, IRCC noted that evictions for aggressive behavior are rare and typically involve short notice due to safety concerns. However, the absence of a standardized appeal process leaves asylum seekers vulnerable. Violations range from breaking curfews to missing crucial meetings with officials.

Toronto immigration lawyer Robert Israel Blanshay criticizes the short notice policy, especially given the current housing crisis. "It's an embarrassment for a G7, G20 country—one of the wealthiest in the world—to still grapple with the settlement needs of asylum seekers," Blanshay said.

A Call for Comprehensive Change

Syed Hussan, executive director of the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, highlights a critical gap in the system: "What we have is a patchwork of policies," he remarked, pointing out the lack of tenant protections for asylum seekers in government accommodations.

Despite the adversity, there is a glimmer of hope for the man as a community member has offered him a place to stay. Nevertheless, he remains resolute in shielding his family from the distressing truth of his experiences, saying, "I can't say that to my mom or father or my wife, my children. No. It will make them very sad."

As immigration policies continue to evolve, the pressing need for a compassionate and comprehensive approach to housing asylum seekers becomes increasingly evident. Without it, individuals like him will continue to face the harrowing reality of life on the margins.