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Refugee ProtectionSafety and New Beginnings in Canada

If you are fleeing persecution, war, or violence in your home country, Canada offers refugee protection and the opportunity to build a new life in safety and security.

What is Refugee Protection?

Refugee protection is available to individuals who have fled their home country and cannot return due to a well-founded fear of persecution. Canada is committed to protecting refugees under international law and provides various pathways for those seeking safety.

The refugee protection system in Canada includes government-assisted refugees, privately sponsored refugees, and protected persons who make claims from within Canada. All pathways require demonstrating that you meet the definition of a Convention refugee or person in need of protection. Successful claimants can apply for permanent residence and eventually Canadian citizenship.

6-18
Months to Hearing
85%
Acceptance Rate
Woman advocating with megaphone representing protection and safety for refugees

Types of Refugee Protection

Three main pathways for refugee protection in Canada

Government-Assisted Refugees
Refugees selected abroad and supported by the Canadian government upon arrival.

Key Requirements:

  • Referred by UNHCR or designated referral organization
  • Meet definition of Convention refugee
  • Pass medical and security checks
  • Demonstrate ability to establish in Canada
Privately Sponsored Refugees
Refugees sponsored by private groups or organizations in Canada.

Key Requirements:

  • Sponsorship by eligible group or organization
  • Meet definition of Convention refugee
  • Financial support commitment for 1 year
  • Settlement support plan in place
Protected Persons in Canada
Individuals who make refugee claims from within Canada.

Key Requirements:

  • Present in Canada when making claim
  • Submit claim within required timeframes
  • Attend IRB hearing
  • Prove persecution or risk in home country

Eligibility Requirements

Key criteria for refugee protection in Canada

Outside Home Country
Must be outside your country of nationality or habitual residence
Well-Founded Fear
Have a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country
Unable to Return
Unable or unwilling to return to your home country due to persecution
Convention Grounds
Persecution must be based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group

Protection Benefits

Benefits of refugee protection in Canada

Protection from Persecution
200 pts
Safe haven from persecution and violence in your home country
Permanent Residence Path
190 pts
Opportunity to apply for permanent residence after positive decision
Healthcare Coverage
180 pts
Access to essential healthcare services through Interim Federal Health Program
Work Authorization
170 pts
Eligible to apply for work permit while claim is being processed
Education Access
160 pts
Children can attend school and adults can access language training
Family Reunification
150 pts
Ability to include family members in your claim or sponsor them later

Interim Federal Health Program

Refugee claimants and protected persons receive essential healthcare coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program while their status is being determined.

Refugee Claim Process

Step-by-step guide to making a refugee protection claim

1

Initial Assessment

Evaluate your situation and determine eligibility for refugee protection.

1-2 weeks
2

Document Preparation

Gather evidence of persecution and prepare your Personal Information Form (PIF).

4-8 weeks
3

Claim Submission

Submit your refugee protection claim to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).

1 week
4

Eligibility Review

IRCC determines if your claim is eligible to be referred to the IRB.

2-4 weeks
5

IRB Hearing

Attend hearing before the Refugee Protection Division to present your case.

6-18 months
6

Decision & Status

Receive decision and, if positive, apply for permanent residence.

2-6 months

Why Choose A3D Immigration?

Specialized expertise in refugee protection cases

Legal Expertise
Specialized knowledge in refugee law and IRB procedures
Case Preparation
Thorough preparation of your Personal Information Form and supporting evidence
Hearing Support
Comprehensive preparation and representation at IRB hearings
Trauma-Informed Care
Sensitive approach understanding the trauma experienced by refugees

Important Notice

Refugee claims must be made within strict timelines and require substantial evidence of persecution or risk. The Immigration and Refugee Board conducts thorough assessments, and decisions can significantly impact your future in Canada. Misrepresentation or fraudulent claims can result in removal from Canada and bars to future applications. It's essential to work with experienced legal professionals who understand refugee law and can properly present your case. The trauma experienced by refugees requires sensitive handling, and professional support can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about this service and the application process.

Seeking Safety and Protection in Canada?

Our experienced team understands the complexities of refugee law and is committed to helping you navigate the protection process with compassion and expertise.