SECU – Improvements in Security Screening Process – August 28, 2024

Key Facts and Figures

• In 2018, CBSA and CSIS introduced thematic risk indicators to support IRCC officers in determining which applications should be referred for Comprehensive Security Screening by the CBSA and CSIS.
• These indicators, developed by CBSA and CSIS, provide IRCC officers with indicators of inadmissibility during the initial security assessment of immigration applications.
• While the number of referrals for Comprehensive Security Screening have stayed relatively the same over the years, the quality of these security referrals has improved since the introduction of thematic risk indicators.

Key Messages

• In 2023, IRCC consolidated many aspects of migration integrity into a single sector accountable for enhancing the integrity of immigration, citizenship and passport programs. This realignment has improved coordination on threat and risk identification, improved advice, and strengthened our national security partnerships.
• The security screening risk indicators are continuously reviewed and updated in collaboration with partners. This helps to ensure that the people who are most likely to pose a potential security threat to Canada are referred for Comprehensive Security Screening and that immigration officers have up-to-date information on the latest trends.
• IRCC also continues to refine its case management system to improve the efficiency of how information is shared with its security partners.
• IRCC frequently updates its guidance to officers so that admissibility is carefully assessed, immigration fraud is effectively prevented, and our immigration programs are not used as a pathway for threats to Canadians.
• IRCC continuously reviews internal processes to identify areas for improvement so that officers are equipped with updated information to support decision making.

Supplementary Information

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• Canada has information-sharing agreements with like-minded countries jointly committed to enhancing the integrity, security and efficiency of their immigration and border services through the sharing of biographic and biometric information.
• In addition to the United States, Canada has different information-sharing agreements and arrangements with Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. The type of information shared, and how it is shared, varies by country, based on necessity and domestic laws.
• IRCC and security partners at all levels meet regularly to discuss national security and security screening matters. These governance committees are intended to identify common issues and develop/prioritize improvement plans in order to enhance operational integrity and respond to the evolving immigration landscape.