Canada is seeing a sharp rise in refugee claims from Americans, with more applications filed in the first half of 2025 than in all of 2024, according to new data from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
Between January and June, 245 Americans applied for refugee status in Canada, the highest number since 2019. That compares to 204 claims in 2024. While the figure represents a small share of Canada’s total 55,000 refugee claims, it marks a notable increase at a time when U.S. policies on trans rights are tightening.
Legal and Policy Barriers
Canada has historically accepted very few U.S. refugee claims, arguing that the United States is a safe country. Under a bilateral agreement, most asylum-seekers crossing the land border from the U.S. are turned back with the reasoning that they should claim asylum in the first safe country they arrive in.
Still, claims from Americans have risen before — including during Trump’s first administration — and the current surge is drawing renewed attention.
Trans Americans Among New Claimants
Eight lawyers told Reuters they are hearing from more transgender Americans considering leaving the U.S. due to restrictions on gender-affirming healthcare, military service, bathroom access, and participation in sports.
Reuters spoke with a trans woman from Arizona who filed her claim in Canada in April, and with a mother who filed on behalf of her trans daughter. Both cited fears for their safety and future rights in the U.S.
Growing Scrutiny of U.S. Human Rights Record
To gain asylum, applicants must convince Canada’s Refugee Board that they face persecution and that no part of the U.S. is safe for them.
In response to rising claims, the Board recently expanded its national documentation package, adding reports from organizations such as Human Rights Watch outlining U.S. policies and treatment of LGBTQ people.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said refugee claims in Canada should not detract from individuals around the world “facing actual fear and persecution.”
Rising Tensions Over Rights
The surge in claims reflects the impact of policy rollbacks under President Donald Trump and rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court, which have rolled back protections for transgender people. With Canada now receiving the highest number of American refugee claims in years, advocates say the trend highlights deep divisions in U.S. society and its approach to LGBTQ rights
Highlights:
U.S. refugee claims in Canada hit highest level since 2019.
Many claims linked to trans Americans citing loss of rights.
Canada’s Immigration Board adds reports on U.S. LGBTQ conditions.
Connect with us through social media
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577015427068X (Twitter):
https://x.com/tet_editorInstagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_eastern_times_/?next=%2F&hl=enMail (Email):
contact.theeasterntimes@gmail.com
