If you’re being persecuted in your country of nationality, you can make a refugee claim in Canada.
How do I make a refugee claim in Canada?
You can make a refugee claim either,
- At a port of entry (POE); or
- After you’ve entered Canada and had an opportunity to speak to a lawyer.
After entering Canada, you’ll need to submit your refugee claim, as well as all necessary documents, such as your Basis of Claim (BOC) form, narrative, and country condition disclosure, online.
Deadlines are very important
Refugee claims have strict deadlines, especially for submitting the BOC form and supporting documents. Missing a deadline or submitting incomplete information can lead to delays or IRCC to conclude that you’ve abandoned your refugee claim.
It’s important to understand these timelines early and prepare your claim carefully.
What happens after I submit my refugee claim?
You’ll submit your refugee claim to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), who will decide whether your claim is eligible.
If so, IRCC will refer your claim to the Refugee Protection Division (RPD), and you’ll get a Refugee Protection Claimant Document, with which you can access healthcare services in Canada.
Can I work while my refugee claim is being processed?
You can work only after you receive your work permit.
When you make a refugee claim, you can also submit an application for a work permit, which you’ll probably receive in about 3 to 6 weeks. Once you have a work permit, you can work in Canada.
Is there a refugee hearing?
After you submit a refugee claim, one of three things can happen:
- The RPD processes your refugee claim as Less Complex: Your claim is decided without a hearing.
- The RPD will schedule a short-hearing: Short-hearings are generally for about an hour, wherein a Member of the RPD will ask you questions with respect to your claim.
- The RPD will schedule a hearing: A typical hearing at the RPD is for about 3 hours, wherein a Member of the RPD will ask you questions with respect to your claim.
It’s best if you’re represented by a lawyer, so that you’re better prepared for the hearing, and you submit the right documents with respect to your claim.
How can Kabir & Alam help me with my refugee claim?
Making a refugee claim in Canada is a complex process, requiring careful attention and a lot of evidence.
And if you forget to include an important fact in the BOC form, it may have a negative impact on your overall claim.
Book a consultation with us today, so that we can assist you in filing your refugee claim.