Refugees and Asylum-Seekers
The Canadian refugee system has two main parts:
(1) The Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program, for people outside Canada who need protection and wish to resettle in Canada.
(2)The In-Canada Asylum Program, for people in Canada who make refugee protection claims. If successful, these claims can lead to resettlement and permanent status in Canada.
To obtain this status, you must first make a refugee claim.
Who can make a in-Canada refugee claim:
- You must be in Canada
- You can’t be subject to a removal order
If you’re outside Canada, you may be eligible to:
This page focuses on making an In-Canada Refugee Claim.
Convention Refugees are outside their home country or the country they normally live in. They aren’t able to return because of a well-founded fear of persecution based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Political opinion
- Nationality
- Being part of a persecuted social group.
A person in need of protection is a person in Canada who can’t return to their home country safely. This is because if they return they may face:
- Danger of torture
- Risk to their life
- Risk of cruel or unusual treatment or punishment.
For more information about this process, go to: making an asylum claim in Canada.
Basis of Claim Form
Proof of Identity Documents
These can be documents issued by a government:
- passport,
- birth certificate,
- national identity card or residence card,
- driver’s license.
Other identity documents could include:
- school records,
- baptismal certificate.
If you do not have any identity documents, you might need to try to get a statement from someone who knows you or can confirm facts about you.
Proof of Refugee Claim
These can include:
- Proof of membership in an organization, political party, or religious faith
- Police reports
- Medical reports
- Human rights reports or newspaper accounts of issues in your country
Medical Report Form
Follow Our Checklist
Refugee Protection Claim package checklist:
To make a refugee claim, you will need to declare asylum at your point of entry (airport or border). If you’re already in Canada, apply online with the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Office as an (“inland claim”).
You will receive a Refugee Protection Claim package that will explain the claim process and provide you with a number of forms to complete.
You will need to get your photo and fingerprints taken and answer detailed questions. IRCC will collect your original proof of identity documents, but you’ll receive certified copies and the Confirmation of Referral (known as the “brown paper”).
The Basis of Claim Form and other forms in the Refugee Protection Claim package will need to be submitted to IRCC within 15 days. You will need to include the reasons and submit proof of your claim.
You will need to have the Refugee Medical Exam (RME) from a doctor on this approved list: (Physician List) to complete the Medical Report Form. This service is free and should be done as soon as possible. The form will need to be submitted within 30 days.
If you plan to work while waiting for your claim, check the “I intend to work” box on the Basis of Claims form and submit your Medical Report Form to be eligible for a Work Permit.
Once all the mandatory forms are submitted, you should expect to hear back by email and/or mail within 24 months to provide you with your Refugee Hearing date.
If you are approved for a work permit (varies depending on country), you will need to obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) at a Service Canada location, online or by mail (Apply for SIN Here)> .
To prepare yourself for the hearing, you can connect with lawyers and/or community-based organizations to prepare you through mock hearings and other support free of charge. (List of Eligible Legal Aid Offices in Canada)>.
Social Assistance:
- If you need financial assistance, you may be eligible for government subsidies through Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Program. For more information on how to apply for social assistance. How to Apply OW> and/or How to Apply ODSP >
Health Care (Interim Federal Health Program):
- Until your Refugee Claim has been accepted, your healthcare needs will be covered through IFHP. When your claim is accepted, you’ll be eligible for OHIP. For more information on the IFHP >
Legal Representation:
- Legal representation can be useful as the refugee claim process can be complex. They can provide support in over 300 languages. For more information on legal services for refugee claimants >
Applying for a Work Permit:
- You can request to apply for a work permit while you’re with the border services officer. If eligible, you’ll receive it after completing your medical assessment. A work permit is required before you can start any kind of work. For more information on getting a work permit >
- You’ll need a Social Insurance Number to work in Canada. You’re required to provide your Work Permit and additional documents to apply for your SIN. For more information on applying for a SIN >
Applying for a Study Permit:
- As a refugee claimant, you are eligible for a study permit. For more information on getting a study permit >
- Here are some Educational Options to explore:
- ESL classes offered through TDSB
- Schooling up to end of High School (LINK to program/registration)
- Post-secondary education (college/university): Through a partnership with UNHCR, the World University Service of Canada offers the Student Refugee Program. that makes it possible for qualifying refugees to enter study at select Canadian universities without having to pay for tuition for one year. For more information on the Student Refugee Program >
Legal
Health Care
