How to Report Illegal Immigrants in Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: To report suspected illegal immigrants in Canada, contact the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Border Watch Tip Line at 1-888-502-9060 or submit an online report. Provide specific, factual details; avoid assumptions or discrimination. Canada values due process, privacy, and humane treatment—always act responsibly and within the law.

If you suspect someone is living or working in Canada without legal status, it’s important to know the correct, lawful, and ethical way to report your concerns. This guide explains the official process, what information to provide, and key considerations to keep in mind.

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How do I report someone I suspect is in Canada illegally?

You can report suspicions of illegal presence or work in Canada by calling the CBSA’s confidential Border Watch Tip Line or using their online form. The first step is to gather specific, factual observations—not assumptions—and report them through the proper official channels.

According to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA){:target="_blank"}, the public can help maintain border integrity by reporting suspicious activities. When making a report, you should be prepared to provide:

• The individual’s full name, date of birth, and physical description.
• Their last known address, workplace, or vehicle information.
• The specific reasons for your suspicion (e.g., they admitted to having an expired visa).
• Your own contact information (though you can choose to remain anonymous).

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What information should I include in my report?

Your report should be detailed, factual, and based on firsthand knowledge or observable evidence. Vague or discriminatory reports based on someone's accent, appearance, or ethnicity are not helpful and can be harmful.

A strong report allows authorities to investigate effectively. Focus on objective facts you have directly witnessed or heard. For example:

• Do provide: "The individual stated their work permit expired last month and they have not applied for a renewal."
• Do not provide: "I think they are illegal because they don't speak English well."

Key details that assist the CBSA include:

• Dates, times, and locations of observed activities.
• Names of employers knowingly hiring someone without authorization to work.
• Any documentary evidence you may have (e.g., a copy of a fraudulent document).

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Can I report anonymously, and is it safe?

Yes, the CBSA Border Watch Tip Line allows you to report anonymously. The CBSA treats all reports with confidentiality to protect your privacy and safety.

You are not required to provide your personal information when submitting a tip. The primary goal is information, not your identity. However, providing your contact information can be helpful if investigators need to follow up for more details, which could strengthen the case.

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What happens after I make a report?

The CBSA assesses all tips for credibility and urgency. If the information is deemed sufficient, it may launch an investigation, which can include surveillance, interviews, and verification of status with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC){:target="_blank"}.

It’s important to understand that not all reports lead to immediate action or removal. Canada has a legal process that must be followed, which includes:

• Verifying the individual’s immigration status.
• Ensuring they understand the allegations against them.
• Providing access to legal representation and avenues for appeal.

You will likely not receive updates on the status of the investigation due to privacy laws.

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What are the legal and ethical considerations?

Reporting someone is a serious action with significant consequences. It is illegal to make a false report or to report someone maliciously based on discrimination, which could be considered a hate crime.

Canada’s immigration system is built on principles of fairness and justice. Before reporting, consider:

• Motivation: Are you acting on factual evidence or personal bias?
• Impact: Your report could potentially separate families and disrupt lives.
• Alternatives: If you are an employer, use official tools like the IRCC’s Employer Portal{:target="_blank"} to verify work authorization instead of making assumptions.

Always act in good faith and with respect for the law and human dignity.

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Are there alternatives to reporting to the CBSA?

In some specific cases, there may be more appropriate channels than the CBSA tip line, depending on the nature of your concern.

For example:

• Workplace Issues: If you are concerned about unsafe working conditions or labour exploitation for all workers, you can report to your provincial Ministry of Labour.
• General Crime: For suspected criminal activity unrelated to immigration status (e.g., fraud, theft), contact your local police service.
• Seeking Status: If you know someone who wants to regularize their status, advise them to consult with a legitimate immigration consultant or lawyer instead of reporting them.

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How can I check my own immigration status?

If you're an immigrant yourself, it's crucial to always know your status and document expiration dates. Uncertainty can cause immense stress. You can officially check your application status online through the IRCC website{:target="_blank"}.

For a more personalized understanding of your situation and options, tools like Evola AI’s Immigration Success Predictor can help you explore potential pathways based on your unique profile. Staying informed is your best defense against accidental non-compliance.

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Navigating immigration issues, whether your own or someone else's, requires care, accuracy, and a respect for the law. Reporting suspected illegal activity is a civic responsibility, but it must be done correctly and ethically. If you are ever unsure about your own status or next steps, seeking reliable guidance is key.

Ready to get clear, accurate answers to your immigration questions? Let Evola AI’s 24/7 expert guidance help you navigate the system with confidence. Explore your options today.