Refugee claims · Canada
Refugee claim lawyers in Abbotsford, Surrey and Vancouver
If it is unsafe for you to return to your home country, you may be able to claim refugee protection in Canada. Your claim is usually decided at a hearing before the Immigration and Refugee Board, and careful preparation matters.
- Refugee claims and hearings
- Refugee Appeal Division appeals
- Federal Court judicial review
Book a refugee claim consultation
Tell us a little about your situation and we'll be in touch to arrange a time.
Claim refused? An appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division must be filed within 15 days of receiving the written reasons.
The Refugee Protection Division decides most claims at a hearing. Your Basis of Claim form and evidence must tell a consistent, credible story.
- A detailed, consistent Basis of Claim narrative
- Identity documents
- Evidence about conditions in your home country
- Supporting documents such as medical, police and witness letters
Lying on a claim can lead to it being refused and to a ban on returning.
You may have options, but the deadlines are strict.
- Appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division: file within 15 days and complete the appeal within 45 days of receiving the written reasons
- Some claimants cannot appeal to the RAD and must seek judicial review in the Federal Court instead
- A humanitarian application is generally barred for 12 months after a negative decision, with exceptions
Contact us as soon as you receive a decision.
- Make the claimWe help you make your claim correctly, inside Canada or at the border.
- Build your caseWe prepare your Basis of Claim form and gather supporting evidence.
- Hearing preparationWe prepare you for the questions you will face and represent you at the hearing.
- Decision and next stepsIf refused, we act quickly on an appeal or judicial review.
Refugee claim questions
A Convention refugee has a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. A person in need of protection faces a personal risk of torture, a risk to life, or cruel and unusual treatment or punishment.
Yes. Claims from inside Canada are made online. Claims can also be made at a port of entry when you arrive.
Refugee claimants can generally apply for a work permit while waiting for a decision.
A member of the Refugee Protection Division asks about your identity, your story and the risk you face. Consistency between your testimony and your documents is critical.
You may be able to appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division within 15 days of receiving the written reasons, or seek judicial review in the Federal Court. Deadlines are strict.
Official sources: IRCC: Claim refugee protectionIRB: Filing a refugee appeal
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Refugee claims help in Abbotsford, Surrey and Vancouver
Meet us at any of our offices, or by phone or video from anywhere in Canada or abroad.
Need protection in Canada?
Book a confidential consultation and we will explain your options.