Published on
November 9, 2025
Iceland joins with Denmark, Germany, Norway, Poland, Italy, and several other European nations, now faces stricter travel visa and temporary resident permit regulations as Canada tightens its immigration policies. This shift, effective from February 2025, allows Canadian immigration officers to revoke or cancel visas and permits even after they have been issued, ensuring ongoing compliance from temporary residents throughout their stay. The changes aim to address increasing pressures on Canada’s housing, job market, and immigration system, with the government targeting a nearly 43% reduction in temporary resident intake by 2028.
In response to growing concerns about immigration management, Canada has rolled out a set of tough new regulations designed to better control the flow of visitors, students, and foreign workers entering the country. Effective from February 2025, these rules grant Canadian immigration officers the authority to cancel or revoke visitor visas and temporary resident permits even after they have been granted. This shift represents a fundamental change in policy, moving beyond the traditional focus on initial visa approval to ensuring continuous compliance throughout the duration of a temporary resident’s stay in Canada. With this change, the government aims to enhance its oversight and maintain a more balanced approach to immigration, addressing long-standing issues related to housing, jobs, and system inefficiencies.
The Canadian government has explicitly stated that this overhaul aims to make the temporary resident population more manageable, particularly amidst growing concerns over housing shortages, the job market, and immigration system overload. This tightening of travel visa and permit regulations is now being felt in countries across Europe and beyond, with nations like Iceland, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Poland, and Italy facing increased scrutiny of their nationals seeking to enter Canada.
The Shift in Canada’s Immigration Policies
Canada’s new immigration rules are designed to address the growing concerns around the country’s immigration system, which has faced rising numbers of temporary residents in recent years. Temporary residents—tourists, international students, and foreign workers—represent a significant portion of Canada’s immigration landscape, and the government aims to reduce this population by almost 43% by 2028.
The regulatory changes specifically target individuals who have already been granted visitor visas, study permits, or work permits. Now, immigration officers have the authority to cancel these documents at multiple stages of the immigration process. This includes:
Before boarding: Immigration officers can cancel a visa or permit before a person boards their flight to Canada if they believe the traveler is non-compliant or does not meet the visa conditions.At the port of entry: Travelers may face cancellation upon arrival in Canada if their documentation is deemed problematic or they fail to meet the immigration criteria.During the stay: For those already in Canada, officers can cancel visas or permits if it is found that they have violated the terms of their stay—whether that involves overstaying, not working within the parameters of a work permit, or misrepresenting their intentions.
This increased scrutiny, especially on international students and foreign workers, has led to a rise in visa cancellations and refusals. These changes signal a shift in Canada’s approach, from a focus on approving applications to a more comprehensive enforcement of compliance throughout the individual’s stay.
The Global Impact: Affected Countries and Their Nationals
The tightening of Canada’s travel visa and temporary resident permit regulations has impacted countries around the world, particularly European nations and other countries with significant numbers of travelers, students, and workers heading to Canada. Iceland, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Poland, and Italy are among the nations that have seen an uptick in scrutiny for their nationals seeking Canadian visas or temporary resident permits.
Iceland: Adjusting to New Scrutiny
Icelandic citizens, historically exempt from requiring a visitor visa for short stays in Canada, are also facing new regulations. While Icelandic nationals still do not need a visa for short visits, those applying for study permits, work permits, or extending their stay in Canada now face greater scrutiny. Canadian immigration authorities will be closely examining the eligibility and intentions of all Icelandic nationals applying for temporary permits. Though Icelandic citizens do not require a visitor visa for stays of up to six months, longer stays or permit renewals will be subject to heightened compliance checks.
Denmark, Germany, and Poland: Increased Challenges for European Travelers
Countries like Denmark, Germany, and Poland, long-time contributors to Canada’s international student population and labor force, are feeling the impact of these tougher regulations. For Danish and German students, who form one of the largest groups of international students in Canada, the new policy means that their applications for study permits may face delays or refusals if they fail to meet compliance requirements.
Similarly, Polish nationals seeking temporary work permits or study visas are now under greater scrutiny. The Canadian government has made it clear that it is now more concerned with ensuring that applicants have the genuine intention to stay temporarily and will leave at the end of their authorized stay. For many, this will mean proving their ties to their home country and demonstrating that they have the financial capacity to support their stay in Canada.
Norway and Italy: Global Travel Impacts
Countries outside Europe, such as Norway and Italy, are also feeling the effects of Canada’s tighter travel rules. Norwegian nationals, who commonly visit Canada for tourism or short-term work opportunities, are now subject to these stricter checks. As for Italians, many of whom are drawn to Canada’s vibrant cultural scene and academic institutions, the new rules will impact their ability to get student and work visas. As the application process becomes more complex, travelers from these countries will need to show more significant evidence of compliance, and applications could be delayed or denied if the requirements are not met.
Even travelers from Italy, which has long been a major source of tourists and students for Canada, now face increased risks of visa refusal and permit cancellations. Travelers from these countries will need to ensure that they are in full compliance with the updated regulations.
Why Canada Is Tightening Its Immigration Rules
The Canadian government has made it clear that the intent behind these changes is to make its temporary resident population more manageable. Canada has seen a rapid increase in the number of temporary residents in recent years, with a growing number of foreign nationals entering the country for education, employment, or tourism. The new rules are designed to control this influx and ensure that only those who meet specific eligibility criteria are granted temporary residency in Canada.
Addressing Housing and Job Market Pressures
A key driver behind these new regulations is the increasing pressure on Canada’s housing and job markets. As the number of temporary residents grows, cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are experiencing overcrowding and rising costs of living. The Canadian government is aiming to balance immigration with the available resources in the country, particularly in sectors like housing and employment.
By reducing the number of temporary residents by 43% by 2028, Canada hopes to alleviate some of the pressures on these essential services while still maintaining its reputation as an attractive destination for international students, workers, and tourists.
Combating Immigration Fraud
Another significant factor behind the tightening of rules is Canada’s commitment to fighting immigration fraud. Immigration fraud, including the submission of fake documents, misrepresentation of personal information, and overstaying permits, has been an ongoing issue. The new regulations are designed to clamp down on such practices, ensuring that only those who genuinely meet the criteria are granted temporary resident status.
Ensuring Ongoing Compliance
Canada is shifting from a one-time approval system to one where compliance is continuously monitored. This means that applicants must not only meet the eligibility requirements at the time of application but also maintain compliance throughout their stay in Canada. This shift aims to reduce the burden on the country’s immigration system and ensure that only those who intend to respect the terms of their temporary residence are granted entry.
What Travelers Need to Know: Navigating Canada’s New Immigration Rules
With these significant changes, travelers from countries like Iceland, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Poland, and Italy should be aware of the new rules and what they need to do to ensure compliance. Here’s a guide to help travelers navigate the updated system:
1. Ongoing Compliance Is Key
Canada’s new regulations emphasize ongoing compliance with the terms of your visa or permit. It’s essential for travelers to:
Stay informed about the specific conditions attached to your visa or permit, such as the requirement to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.Adhere to all guidelines regarding work, study, and residence, as failure to do so can result in cancellation of your permit or visa.2. Documentation Accuracy
Make sure all the documents you submit with your application are accurate, up-to-date, and truthful. Any inconsistencies, such as missing documents, inconsistencies in financial records, or misrepresentation of your intentions, can result in the denial of your visa or permit.
3. Track Expiration Dates
Keep a close eye on the expiration dates of your visitor visa, study permit, or work permit. If you need to extend your stay, apply for a renewal well before your visa expires. Overstaying your permitted stay can lead to serious consequences, including deportation or a ban from entering Canada in the future.
4. Prepare for Potential Delays
Due to increased scrutiny and longer processing times, travelers should be prepared for delays in the visa application process. Apply as early as possible to ensure you have plenty of time to address any issues or concerns that may arise during processing.
5. Stay Updated on Policy Changes
Since Canada’s immigration rules are evolving, it’s essential for travelers to stay updated on any new developments. Regularly check official government websites or consult an immigration professional for the latest information on visa requirements and policy changes.
6. Consult an Immigration Professional if Needed
Given the complexities and potential risks associated with the new immigration regulations, it may be worthwhile to consult with an immigration consultant or lawyer, especially if you have concerns about your eligibility or the renewal of your documents. Professional help can provide clarity on:
How to navigate changes to Canadian immigration policy.What to do if your permit or visa is in jeopardy.How to handle issues with your employer or educational institution.7. Be Prepared for Longer Processing Times
With stricter rules now in place, travelers may experience longer processing times for their visa applications, permit renewals, or eTA approvals. Plan ahead and be patient, as immigration officers are now tasked with conducting more thorough reviews.
Submit applications early: To avoid delays, submit all necessary documents well in advance of your planned travel date. This will allow time for potential issues to be addressed.Expect more document requests: Officers may request additional documentation, so be prepared to provide further proof of eligibility if required.8. Know the Exemptions
Some travelers may be exempt from certain parts of the stricter rules, depending on their circumstances. For example, people who entered Canada under a temporary public policy waiver (such as in emergency or humanitarian situations) may not be subject to cancellations for non-compliance in the same way others are. If you fall into this category, make sure you fully understand your specific rights and responsibilities.
Global Impact Overview: Countries and Traveler Groups Affected by Canada’s New Immigration RulesCountryAffected GroupImpactIcelandVisitor Visa Holders, Students, WorkersStricter checks on eligibility and compliance for permits, heightened scrutiny on longer stays or renewalsDenmarkVisitors, Students, WorkersIncreased scrutiny on student and work permits, higher risk of refusal or cancellationGermanyStudents, VisitorsHigher risk of visa cancellations for non-compliance or incorrect documentationNorwayVisitors, WorkersStricter eligibility checks, potential delays for visas and permitsPolandStudents, WorkersHigher scrutiny on permits, increased likelihood of cancellations for non-complianceItalyVisitors, Students, WorkersStricter checks on travel documentation, risk of visa refusals or delays in processingFranceVisitors, Students, WorkersIncreased checks, potential delays for students and workers applying for temporary permitsSwedenVisitors, Students, WorkersMore intense scrutiny of permits and visas, stricter eligibility checks for workers and studentsSpainVisitors, Students, WorkersIncreased scrutiny, particularly for work permits and student visa renewalsNetherlandsVisitors, Students, WorkersHeightened scrutiny on work and study permits, delays in visa processingBelgiumVisitors, Students, WorkersStricter checks on compliance, potential for visa cancellations if requirements aren’t metAustriaVisitors, Students, WorkersIncreased monitoring of temporary resident permits and greater likelihood of visa cancellationsFinlandVisitors, Students, WorkersMore intense monitoring, delays for workers and students applying for permitsIrelandVisitors, Students, WorkersStricter enforcement of visa conditions, increased chance of refusal for non-compliancePortugalVisitors, Students, WorkersHeightened scrutiny for travelers seeking study or work permits, possible delays or refusalsSwitzerlandVisitors, Students, WorkersIncreased checks and higher chances of visa cancellations for non-compliance or incorrect documentationLuxembourgVisitors, Students, WorkersStricter visa processing, delays, and refusals likely for students and workersLiechtensteinVisitors, Students, WorkersStricter enforcement on all temporary resident categories, with heightened risk of cancellationsMonacoVisitors, Students, WorkersHeightened scrutiny and increased likelihood of visa cancellations for longer staysMaltaVisitors, Students, WorkersIncreased scrutiny on visitor visa applications, study and work permits subject to more intense review
As Canada tightens its immigration policies and enforces stricter rules on travel visas and temporary resident permits, travelers from Iceland, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Poland, Italy, and beyond must be vigilant in ensuring they meet the new compliance requirements. These changes represent a shift toward a more controlled and sustainable immigration system that balances the needs of temporary residents with the pressures on Canada’s housing and job markets.
For travelers looking to visit, study, or work in Canada, understanding and adhering to these updated regulations will be crucial for a smooth and successful stay. By staying informed, ensuring accurate documentation, and maintaining compliance throughout their stay, travelers can continue to benefit from the opportunities that Canada offers while navigating its evolving immigration landscape.
Iceland joins Denmark, Germany, Norway, Poland, Italy, and other European countries as Canada tightens its immigration policies, implementing stricter travel visa and temporary resident permit regulations. This move, effective from February 2025, aims to address concerns over housing, job markets, and immigration system overload by enforcing ongoing compliance throughout a temporary resident’s stay.
By taking proactive steps, travelers can continue to enjoy Canada’s opportunities while staying compliant with its new immigration rules.
