Irregular Migration
to Canada
Causes · Routes · Consequences · Rights
⬡ Touch anywhere to begin ⬡
Sources: IRCC · UNHCR · Statistics Canada · CBC
National Migration Data Portal · 2026

Irregular
Migration to Canada

Thousands cross into Canada outside official ports of entry each year. Explore the causes, routes, and legal outcomes of irregular migration.

Featured Documentary
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CBC News — Thousands cross into Canada through unofficial entry points each year. Touch any section to explore further.

Sources: IRCC · UNHCR · Statistics Canada

Why People Migrate Irregularly

Push & Pull Factors — Touch a card to explore

Push Factor
Persecution & Human Rights
Race, religion, political opinion
Push Factor
Poverty & Economic Collapse
GDP gap drives 80% of economic migrants
Push Factor
Climate & Environmental Disaster
21.5M climate displaced annually
Pull Factor
Canada's Safety & Reputation
500K new permanent residents · 2023
Pull Factor
Family Reunification
3–5 year official visa wait time
Barrier Factor
Safe Third Country Agreement
Forces irregular crossings — amended 2023
Modern Factor
Smuggling Networks & Social Media
Routes shared online — $15B industry

The Journey & Crossing Routes

Common methods & entry points — Touch to learn more

Land Route
US–Canada Land Border
Roxham Rd, Manitoba, BC crossings
Land Route
Forest & Wilderness Crossings
Remote Quebec, Ontario, BC border
Water Route
River & Lake Crossings
St. Lawrence River, Great Lakes
Air Route
Visa Overstay After Legal Entry
Largest category — 200,000+ estimated
Sea Route
Pacific Coast & Maritime Entry
BC coast, container ship exploitation
Vehicle
Concealed in Vehicles & Cargo
Organized smuggling — high risk of death

Consequences & Legal Rights

What happens after crossing — Touch a card for details

Immediate
Detention & Processing
CBSA detains crossers for identity check and admissibility review.
Legal Process
Refugee Claim Hearing
IRB hears claims — 21+ month average wait in 2023.
International Law
Non-Refoulement Principle
Canada cannot deport anyone to face persecution or death.
If Claim Denied
Deportation & Removal
CBSA removal orders — appeals via RAD and Federal Court.
Criminal Risk
Human Smuggling Penalties
Smugglers face up to life in prison under IRPA s.117.
Charter Rights
Section 7 — Life & Liberty
All people in Canada have constitutional protections regardless of status.