CILA is proud to host its first-ever national conference, taking place on October 28 in Toronto.

Focused on the future of immigration law in Canada, this full-day event will bring together experts from across the country to unpack the evolving legal landscape, explore critical policy shifts, and share practical strategies for navigating a complex and fast-changing immigration system.

The Canadian immigration landscape is shifting rapidly – and so must our response. The CILA Conference 2025: From Policy to Port of Entry – Navigating Canada’s Immigration System is your front-row seat to the critical conversations shaping the future of immigration law. From the impact of technology and court volumes to ethical use of AI and provincial-federal tensions, this conference brings together legal minds at the forefront of change.

Expect high-profile speakers, dynamic panels, and direct engagement with policymakers and peers. Through panels, keynotes, and networking opportunities, we’ll explore what’s next for immigration in Canada – and how we can shape it, together.  With over 200 attendees expected, this conference offers a full day of CLE-accredited programming, engaging panel discussions, keynotes from high-level officials, and unmatched networking opportunities – including breakfast, lunch, and a closing cocktail reception.

Want to sponsor?

• CILA Conference 2025 Sponsorshop Package
• Exhibitor Booths: Purchase here
• Email: research@cila.co

Why Lawyers Should Attend 

• Insightful Programming: From AI in IRCC decision-making to evolving Express Entry rules and Federal Court strategies, get ahead of the curve with timely legal education.

• Expert Speakers: Hear from judges, IRCC representatives, government officials, and leading immigration lawyers across Canada.

• CLE Accreditation: Fulfill your professionalism, ethics, and practice management hours.

• Networking: Build relationships with peers, thought leaders, and potential collaborators from across the country.

• Food & Hospitality: Enjoy complimentary breakfast, lunch, and a post-conference cocktail reception. 

Overview: Topics We Will Cover 

CILA Conference 2025 will explore the most pressing and emerging issues in Canadian immigration law, including: 

• AI & Automation in IRCC Decision-Making: What you need to know about evolving tools and legal implications

• Federal Backlogs & Judicial Remedies: Strategies for Mandamus, early settlement, and the future of court volumes

• Ethical Practice in the Age of AI: What’s permitted, what’s risky and how to stay ahead

• Economic Immigration & CRS Realignment: Who benefits – and who’s left behind

• Provincial Nominee Programs: Are the provinces playing catch-up or leading the way?

• Practice Management & Financial Efficiency: Smart tools, billing models and automating your back office

• The Numbers Game: What should Canada’s future immigration levels really look like – and how do we get there?

Schedule

• Morning: Opening remarks and plenary sessions

• Midday: Concurrent breakout sessions and lunch keynote

• Afternoon: Workshops and closing plenary

• Evening: Cocktail reception for continued networking

Other Key Information & FAQs 

When and where is the conference?

We’re planning to welcome you on October 28, 2025, at The Quay – a beautiful venue in downtown Toronto located at 100 Queens Quay E, 3rd Floor. The date will be confirmed shortly – sign up for our updates to be the first to know when registration opens. 

What’s included in registration?

Your ticket includes a full day of programming, a light breakfast, lunch, and an evening cocktail reception – giving you plenty of time to network, connect, and refuel. 

Who should attend?

Immigration and refugee lawyers, public sector and NGO professionals, law students, and in-house counsel with an interest in immigration, tech, or litigation will find immense value. If you work with immigration issues in Canada—this event is for you.  

How can I sponsor?

• CILA Conference 2025 Sponsorshop Package
• Exhibitor Booths: Purchase here
• Email: research@cila.co

Will I receive CLE/CPD credit?

Yes! We’ll be applying for accreditation. More information will be available closer to the date. 

I’m coming from outside Toronto – is it worth it?

Definitely. The 2025 Conference is CILA’s biggest in-person event to date and a rare chance to hear directly from key players in the legal and immigration system. It’s also a great excuse to visit Toronto in the fall, with the city’s waterfront and downtown core just steps away. 

Is there a virtual option?

This will be an in-person only event. The value of the conference lies in the live discussions, in-person networking, and the opportunity to build lasting professional relationships. 

How do I stay in the loop?

Join our mailing list and follow CILA on LinkedIn to receive registration updates, speaker announcements, and early-bird pricing details. 

What is the refund policy?

Kindly note that all sales are final and non-refundable.

Event Summary

• Logistics: In-person only
• Attendance: Over 200 people
• CLE Eligibility: More details will be communicated in the coming months
• City: Toronto
• Venue: The Quay, 100 Queens Quay E, 3rd Floor
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee Breaks, Drinks during post-event reception
• Accessibility: Venue is fully accessible; please contact us for specific accommodations
• Early-bird deadline for tickets and exhibitor booths: May 19
• Refund Policy: All sales are final