U.S. Refugee Claims Canada Surge Amid Rights Concerns

U.S. refugee claims Canada witnessed a sharp increase in the first half of 2025, surpassing all of 2024 and reaching the highest number since 2019, according to new data from Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board.

Although Americans accounted for only 245 of about 55,000 total claims, the symbolic rise signals growing unease among marginalized groups. Lawyers say they increasingly hear from transgender Americans seeking safety north of the border.

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Numbers Show a Clear Increase

In 2024, 204 Americans filed refugee claims in Canada, citing the United States as their country of persecution. The first six months of 2025 already exceeded that figure. Historically, Canada has accepted very few such cases. Still, the surge recalls a similar uptick during former President Donald Trump’s first term.

Most asylum-seekers crossing into Canada from the United States are turned back under a bilateral “safe third country” agreement. However, U.S. citizens or residents citing persecution inside America can still apply.

Growing Fear Among Trans Americans

Eight immigration lawyers told Reuters they have received more inquiries from trans Americans. One Arizona trans woman filed for asylum in April, while another mother submitted a claim for her young trans daughter. Both cited safety concerns.

The rise comes as President Trump and the U.S. Supreme Court continue rolling back trans rights. Restrictions now affect access to gender-affirming care, military service eligibility, bathroom use, and participation in sports.

Canada’s Immigration Board Adds LGBTQ Documentation

To strengthen evaluations, Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board recently added reports from groups like Human Rights Watch. These documents highlight the treatment of LGBTQ people in the U.S. and inform decisions about asylum claims.

Applicants must convince the Board that nowhere in the United States offers them safety. This challenge makes approval rates for U.S. refugee claims Canada very low.

U.S. Officials Push Back

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security argued that claims from Americans could divert resources from “individuals facing actual fear and persecution.”

Still, the growing number of claims highlights deep divisions over rights and protections in the U.S. and raises questions about whether Canada will adjust its asylum policies in response.

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