Ottawa, June 25, 2025 — The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has confirmed it is investigating dozens of cases involving suspected Iranian regime officials who may have entered the country despite Canada’s official ban on senior Iranian figures.
This sweeping review was launched after several individuals suspected to be connected to Iran’s government, including those potentially linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), were found to have crossed into Canadian territory. As of now, 115 cases have been flagged. Of these, 49 have been closed either because the individuals are no longer in Canada or because they were found not to be senior regime figures. However, 66 cases remain under investigation.
The probe has already led to 20 individuals being declared inadmissible to Canada. Three have received deportation orders, and one has been deported so far.
The investigations stem from Canada’s designation of Iran as a regime that has “engaged in terrorism and systematic or gross human rights violations,” a status enforced under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. In 2024, Canada further escalated its measures by officially declaring the IRGC as a terrorist entity. Under these laws, senior members of the Iranian regime are barred from entering the country.
Despite the rigorous screening system in place, the presence of suspected Iranian officials has raised concerns about possible loopholes. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is responsible for initial visa vetting, while CBSA handles entry enforcement. Critics argue this dual system may require tighter coordination.
Former CBSA official Kelly Sundberg voiced skepticism about the efficacy of Canada’s recent “Strong Borders Act,” suggesting that legislative reforms may not be sufficient without operational reinforcements.
The investigation comes at a time of escalating tensions between Iran and Western nations, especially amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. Canada’s government has reiterated that it will continue to enforce strict border measures and will not allow Canada to become a haven for those associated with oppressive regimes.
