Canadian immigration lawyers report a sharp rise in inquiries from LGBTQ+ Americans considering a move to Canada. Rainbow Railroad, a non-profit aiding LGBTQ+ individuals escaping persecution, has seen a dramatic increase in requests since Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. President.
On November 6, 2024, the day after the election, nearly 1,200 inquiries were submitted by LGBTQ+ Americans exploring relocation options. Before that, the organization had received approximately 700 requests for the entire year.
Legal Challenges for Asylum Seekers
Despite the influx of interest, Rainbow Railroad notes that most of these individuals do not qualify for asylum under Canadian immigration laws. Canada’s asylum system prioritizes cases of persecution, which limits the eligibility of U.S. citizens for refugee status.
Legal professionals specializing in Canadian immigration also observe this trend. Toronto-based lawyer Adrienne Smith reports receiving between five and ten inquiries daily about immigration pathways to Canada.
However, she cautions that securing permanent residency can be challenging, particularly for those whose professional backgrounds do not align with Canada’s economic priorities. Currently, industries such as healthcare, transportation, science, and engineering are favored for immigration programs.
