Refugee Claims - Claimants

For claims made before December 15, 2012, please refer to the legacy claims page.

All eligible claims for protection made in Canada on or after December 15, 2012, are referred to the IRB for a hearing by the Refugee Protection Division.

 

Ready Tours for Refugee Claimants

The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) collaborates with several non-governmental organizations (NGO) to help refugee claimants prepare for their upcoming hearings through Ready Tours.

These tours are free of charge and are held in our Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal offices to inform refugee claimants about:

  • How to prepare for their upcoming hearing
  • What will take place at the hearing
  • Who will participate in the hearing
  • Mandatory deadlines

For more information, please contact the NGO who is organizing the Ready Tours in your region.

How to Make a Claim for Refugee Protection in Canada

  • To claim refugee protection, you must first notify a border services or immigration officer.
  • You will be required to fill out several CIC forms available on their website.
  • You will be required to fill out a Basis of Claim Form (BOC).
  • You should review the information found in the National Documentation Package which pertains to your claim.
  • If your claim is referred to the RPD, you will be required to attend a hearing to explain your circumstances and tell your story.
  • You must always inform yourself of and respect your obligations in relation to the IRB.
  • The RPD member will decide whether or not you should be granted protected person status in Canada.
  • You have a right to be represented by counsel in your proceeding before the RPD at your own expense
  • List of Legal aid offices.

Claimant's Kit

The IRB Claimant's Kit provides important information regarding the refugee claim process:

Other Important Information and forms