Claim Refugee Protection
in Canada

Who Can Make a Refugee Claim

You may be able to make a refugee claim if you are a Convention refugee or a person in need of protection. Some claims are not eligible to be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). If you do not meet the eligibility requirements, you may be referred to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for removal from Canada.

Because eligibility and procedures can be complex, it is important to speak with an immigration consultant or legal representative before making a claim. Early guidance can help you understand your options, avoid mistakes, and properly prepare your case.

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Make a Refugee Claim

You can make a refugee claim inside Canada or at a port of entry. You can make a refugee claim from within Canada or at a port of entry. You must submit an application with supporting documents, including a Basis of Claim (BOC) form explaining why you are seeking protection (one for each family member), along with evidence. The process can be complex and time-sensitive, so seeking legal assistance early is important. A legal representative can help prepare your application, organize your evidence, and guide you through each step.

Prepare for Your Hearing

It is important to understand what evidence you can gather and submit in support of your refugee claim before your hearing, as well as the types of evidence the IRB considers. Your documents and testimony play a key role in supporting your claim. We can help you prepare by identifying relevant evidence, organizing your documents, guiding you through the process, and asking you questions to ensure you are ready for your hearing
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Accepted Claim

If your refugee claim is accepted, you will be granted protected person status. Following a positive decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), you may apply for permanent residence in Canada. In some cases, IRCC or the CBSA may appeal the decision; however, if no appeal is made, you can proceed with your application. We can assist you with the next step by helping you apply for permanent residence for yourself and your family.

Rejected Claim

If your refugee claim is refused by the Refugee Protection Division (RPD), it is important to determine whether your case can be appealed, as not all decisions can be challenged at the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD). Because appeals often involve legal issues, it is strongly recommended to seek representation from a qualified legal professional authorized to appear before the RAD.
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FAQ

We can support you at every stage of your refugee claim. The services listed are examples and may vary depending on your case. Please contact our office to learn more.

We can assist you with the following:

Application Review: Verify that your application is complete, accurate, and consistent
Evidence Preparation: Assist in collecting and organizing supporting documents for your claim
Hearing Preparation: Help you get ready for your hearing with guidance and practice questions
Meet Deadlines: Support you in meeting all required deadlines

We can assist you with the following:

Work and Study Permits: Assist you in applying for work or study authorization for you or your family members in Canada, if eligible
Updates and Communication: Support you in responding to requests from IRCC or the IRB

We can assist you with:
Applying for a Refugee Travel Document for travel outside Canada
Applying for permanent residence for you and your family

We can guide you through the options available if your claim is rejected. This may include filing an appeal with the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD), or applying for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) or permanent residence on Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) grounds.

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