You can claim refugee protection (asylum) in Canada if you fear persecution, or if you’d be in danger if you returned to your home country. This process applies to people who are already in Canada under another status, such as a visitor visa or a work permit.

1. Apply for Refugee Status from Within Canada:
   • This process involves seeking refugee protection while already in Canada. If you fear persecution or danger in your home country, you can submit a refugee claim to seek legal protection under Canadian law.
2. Appeal a Refugee Claim Decision:
   • If your refugee claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal the decision through the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD). The appeal process allows for a review based on specific grounds, such as legal errors or new evidence.
3. Access Refugee Services in Canada:
   • After being granted refugee status or while awaiting a decision, you can access various services in Canada. These services include healthcare, settlement assistance, financial support, and information about your rights as a refugee.
4. For Asylum Seekers: Important Information:
   • Asylum is granted to individuals fleeing persecution or harm in their home countries. The asylum process involves submitting an application, attending interviews and hearings, and providing evidence to support your claim for protection.
5. Guard Against Fraud:
   • As an asylum seeker or refugee, it’s crucial to be vigilant against potential fraud schemes. This includes being aware of marriage fraud, document fraud, and scams targeting vulnerable individuals seeking immigration assistance. Staying informed and seeking help from reputable sources can help protect you from fraud.

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In Canada, there’s a program called Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) that allows citizens and permanent residents to directly contribute to welcoming and helping refugees.  Basically, you can act as a sponsor for refugees, providing them with financial and social support as they settle into their new life in Canada.

1. Private Refugee Sponsorship:
   • Private sponsorship involves individuals or groups taking responsibility for supporting and resettling a refugee in Canada. Sponsors offer financial, emotional, and settlement assistance to help refugees integrate into Canadian society.
2. Eligible Refugee Sponsors and Sponsorship Types:
   • Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and designated organizations can sponsor refugees. There are different sponsorship types, including:
     • Group of Five: Five or more individuals coming together to sponsor a refugee.
     • Community Sponsors: Organizations collaborating with the government to sponsor refugees.
     • Joint Assistance Sponsorship (JAS) Program: A partnership between a sponsorship agreement holder and a group to sponsor refugees with specific needs.
3. Sponsorship Agreement Holders (SAHs):
   • Organizations can apply to become SAHs, enabling them to sponsor refugees directly or collaborate with constituent groups under their agreements.
4. Group of Five Refugee Sponsorship:
   • A group of five or more Canadians or permanent residents can form a sponsorship group to support and resettle a refugee in Canada. Processing times vary, and sponsors assume responsibility for the refugee’s settlement upon arrival.
5. Community Sponsors:
   • Community organizations partner with the government to sponsor refugees, working with SAHs or governmental entities to provide sponsorship and support services.
6. Joint Assistance Sponsorship (JAS) Program:
   • JAS involves joint sponsorship by a SAH and a group to support refugees with specific needs, such as medical conditions or disabilities.
7. Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) Program:
   • The BVOR program entails cost-sharing between the Canadian government and private sponsors for resettling refugees referred by the UNHCR. Sponsors support refugees’ settlement in Canada.
8. Canadians’ Role in Refugee Resettlement:
   • Canadians and permanent residents play a vital role in refugee resettlement by sponsoring, providing support, and aiding newcomers’ integration into communities, fostering their successful transition to life in Canada.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here.

Resettle in Canada as a refugee by getting referred or sponsored. After acceptance, undergo medical and security checks. Expect support for housing, healthcare, language, and employment upon arrival for a smooth integration into Canadian society.

1. Settling in Canada as a Refugee:
   • To resettle in Canada as a refugee, you can apply through programs like the Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) program, private sponsorship initiatives, or the Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) program. Each program has specific eligibility requirements and application procedures.
2. Who Qualifies for Refugee Sponsorship and What Comes Next:
   • Refugees eligible for sponsorship are individuals escaping persecution, violence, or conflict and cannot safely return to their home countries. After applying, you may undergo interviews, screenings, and assessments as part of the refugee determination process.
3. Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) Program Overview:
   • The GAR program supports refugees identified and referred by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). It provides government-funded assistance for resettlement, including housing, healthcare, language training, and settlement services.
4. Accessing Support Post-Refugee Status Application:
   • Once your refugee status is confirmed, you can access healthcare, settlement assistance, financial aid, and information regarding your rights as a refugee in Canada.
5. Arrival in Canada as a Refugee:
   • Upon arrival, refugees receive ongoing support to aid their transition into Canadian life. This includes healthcare access, settlement guidance, financial aid, and education on refugee rights and responsibilities.
6. Locating Refugee Services in Canada:
   • Canada offers a range of services for refugees, including healthcare, language training, employment assistance, housing support, legal aid, and community integration programs.
7. Safeguarding Against Fraud:
   • Stay vigilant to protect yourself from immigration fraud, such as marriage or document scams, and schemes targeting vulnerable individuals seeking immigration help. Seek information from trustworthy sources and report any suspicious activities to authorities.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here.

The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) is a Canadian program designed to merge refugee resettlement with economic immigration, offering a pathway that:

• Enables skilled refugees to immigrate to Canada via established economic programs.
• Offers employers the chance to hire from a diverse and skilled talent pool to fulfill their staffing requirements.Top of Form

Immigrate to Canada through the EMPP

How the pilot works for candidates:

• What the EMPP is: It’s a pilot program that combines refugee resettlement with skilled worker immigration.
• What it offers:
  • A chance for skilled refugees to immigrate to Canada through established economic programs.
  • Easier application process compared to regular programs (e.g., no need for a valid passport in some cases).

Who is eligible:

• Refugees: You must have a valid refugee status or be someone in need of international protection.
• Skilled workers: You need work experience (at least 1 year full-time or equivalent) relevant to an in-demand occupation in Canada.
• Language skills: You need to demonstrate proficiency in English or French through approved language tests.
• Two streams:
  • Job offer stream: You have a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a Canadian employer.
  • No job offer stream: You have the required work experience, education, and language skills but don’t have a job offer yet.

How to apply:

• Applications: There are two applications involved:
  1. Admission to Canada Application (ACA): This application assesses your eligibility as a refugee or someone needing international protection.
  2. Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot Application: This application assesses your skills and work experience for permanent residency through the EMPP.
• Submission: You’ll need to submit both applications along with required documents to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The IRCC website provides detailed instructions and document checklists.

After you apply:

• Processing: IRCC will process your applications and may request additional documents or clarifications.
• Permanent residency: If successful, you’ll receive permanent resident status in Canada.

Prepare to arrive in Canada:

• Information package: IRCC will send you information about life in Canada, settlement services available, and what to expect upon arrival.
• Settlement services: Canada offers various programs to help newcomers adjust, find housing, and integrate into the community.

Hire skilled refugees through the EMPP

How the pilot works for employers:

• What the EMPP does: It connects you with skilled refugees seeking to immigrate to Canada.
• Benefits of hiring through EMPP:
  • Access to a wider talent pool: Find skilled workers who may not be actively searching in the traditional job market.
  • Faster hiring process: Streamlined application process for qualified refugee candidates.
  • Government support: Programs offer support services for both employers and newcomers.

Find a candidate and program:

• Partner with a NGO: Consider working with a partner NGO (Non-Governmental Organization). They specialize in refugee resettlement and can help you:
  • Find and screen qualified refugee candidates with relevant skills and experience for your job openings.
  • Navigate the EMPP application process and documentation requirements.
  • Provide support services to help your new employee integrate into the workplace.
• EMPP streams: Choose the appropriate EMPP stream based on your situation:
  • Job offer stream: If you have a specific job opening, use this stream to find a matching candidate.
  • No job offer stream: If you’re open to suitable candidates, this stream allows you to review profiles and potentially hire skilled refugees.

How to support newcomer employees:

• Workplace integration: Provide resources and support to help your new employee adjust to the workplace culture, communication styles, and expectations.
• Language training: Consider offering language training programs to help your employee improve their English or French fluency, if needed.
• Mentorship programs: Pair your new employee with a mentor who can provide guidance, answer questions, and offer support during the onboarding process.
• Cultural sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural differences and create a welcoming and inclusive work environment.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here.

In Canada, refugees can access a range of services to help them adjust and thrive. These services include:

1. Healthcare for Refugees:
   • Refugees in Canada receive healthcare coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), which covers essential services like doctor visits, hospital care, and medications. Health professionals can access information on IFHP eligibility, benefits, and application procedures.
2. Settlement Support:
   • Canadian organizations provide comprehensive support to refugees to aid their transition into Canadian life. This support includes language training, cultural orientation, housing assistance, and community integration programs. Contact details for these organizations can be obtained to access resettlement assistance.
3. Financial Assistance:
   • Refugees may qualify for financial aid and loans to assist with their resettlement in Canada. Information on eligibility criteria, available resettlement support, and loan options can be accessed to receive financial assistance.
4. Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR) Program:
   • The GAR program offers support to newly arrived refugees in Canada, including immediate needs assistance, settlement services, access to the Urgent Protection Program for critical cases, and specialized support through the Women at Risk program for vulnerable individuals.
5. Refugee Rights:
   • Refugees in Canada have rights, including the right to work and access education during the refugee claim process. Information on employment opportunities, educational resources, and refugee rights can be obtained for guidance.
6. Fraud Prevention:
   • It’s crucial for refugees to safeguard themselves against immigration fraud, such as marriage or document scams, and fraudulent schemes targeting vulnerable individuals. Information on fraud prevention strategies, including email and internet scams, can be accessed for awareness and protection.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here.

The Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) was established on December 15, 2012, to consider appeals against decisions made by the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) regarding claims for refugee protection. The RAD reviews these decisions based on the documents submitted by the parties involved and the record of the RPD. In most cases, there is no hearing; instead, the RAD makes its decision based on the available evidence.

Services and Information:

1. Appeal Forms:
   • Access a range of forms necessary for various stages of the refugee appeal process. These forms streamline documentation submission and completion for the appeal procedure.
2. Procedures & Practice Notices:
   • Explore the procedural guidelines defining the administrative tribunal process at the IRB, including appeal conduct and relevant processes related to refugee appeals.
3. Decision Database:
   • Access selected IRB decisions on immigration and refugee claims and appeals. These decisions offer insights into the application and interpretation of immigration and refugee laws by the IRB in specific cases.
4. Policy Instruments:
   • Discover the IRB’s policy instruments such as Chairperson’s Guidelines, Jurisprudential Guides, and Policies. These instruments aid decision-making and ensure consistency in interpreting immigration and refugee laws.
5. Legal Resources:
   • Find papers and resources covering essential legal concepts and procedural matters relevant to immigration and refugee proceedings before the Board. This section serves as a reference for legal professionals and individuals involved in refugee appeals.
6. Acts, Rules, Regulations:
   • Consult the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, along with associated rules and regulations governing the IRB’s authority to hear and decide cases related to immigration and refugee matters. These legal frameworks establish procedures within Canada’s legal system for handling refugee appeals.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here

Irregular border crossings and asylum in Canada refer to situations where individuals enter Canada outside of official border points to seek asylum. The asylum process in Canada involves several steps to balance humanitarian commitments with national security:

1. Asylum Claims Statistics in Canada:
   • Access data on the volume of asylum claims submitted in Canada, including details on claims processed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) interceptions and claims at different ports of entry.
2. Debunking Asylum Myths Quiz:
   • Engage in a quiz designed to debunk myths and misunderstandings surrounding asylum claims and irregular border crossings into Canada. Test your knowledge to promote a clearer understanding of the asylum process.
3. Distinction Between Asylum and Immigration Processes:
   • Understand the difference between asylum claims and immigration applications in Canada. Clarify that these are distinct processes, with claiming asylum at the border not affecting immigration applications.
4. Asylum Claim Process: Adherence to Laws and Rigorous Procedures:
   • Highlight the strict enforcement of laws and rigorous procedures in the asylum process. Emphasize that all legal requirements are followed to ensure compliance and uphold the integrity of Canada’s asylum system.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here

Canada’s refugee system encompasses programs and initiatives designed to assist refugees in claiming protection, both from within Canada and outside its borders. Additionally, Canada provides support to refugees and other newcomers to help them settle and integrate into Canadian society. Here’s an overview:

1. Canada’s Refugee Programs:
   • Canada operates two primary refugee programs, one for individuals within Canada seeking protection and another for refugees outside the country. These programs offer support to aid refugees and newcomers in integrating into Canadian society.
2. Asylum Claim Statistics:
   • Key figures related to asylum claims in Canada are processed by government agencies like CBSA, IRCC, and RCMP. These agencies are responsible for assessing and managing the processing of asylum claims.
3. Managing Irregular Border Crossings and Asylum:
   • Canada balances security measures with humanitarian commitments by effectively managing irregular border crossings and processing asylum claims. Our approach prioritizes safety and compassion in the asylum process.
4. Support for LGBTQI+ Individuals in Need of Protection:
   • Canada is globally recognized for providing a safe refuge for LGBTQI+ individuals requiring protection. We have established policies and programs to support their resettlement and successful integration into Canadian society.
5. Assisting Syrian Refugees:
   • Canada has actively welcomed Syrian refugees by providing support, resettlement assistance, and opportunities for a fresh start. Canadians have played a significant role in aiding Syrian refugees through various initiatives and contributions.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here

These are the main numbers related to people who are seeking asylum in Canada and are processed by three agencies: the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). These figures likely include details such as the number of asylum applications received, approved, denied, or pending, as well as other relevant statistics regarding the asylum process in Canada.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here

Canada has taken several steps in response to the situation in Afghanistan. We’ve implemented programs specifically aimed at assisting Afghans, as well as providing help for Canadians who are in Afghanistan.

For more information, please refer to the official government website by clicking here