Seeking refuge in another country can be a daunting and overwhelming process. Canada is always welcoming, making it a good destination for anyone seeking refuge. Don’t worry; the application process does not have to be stressful! We will take you through the application process of a Canadian asylum seeker in six steps.

Step 1 – Knowing your Eligibility
The initial step in the Canadian refugee process is identifying whether or not you qualify to apply. You can make a refugee claim in Canada if you believe that your life is in danger in your country.

Step 2 – Application Submission
After confirming that you are eligible, now submit your application as a refugee. You can do this by two methods:
● At an Entry Point: If you are already in Canada and wish to make your claim for refugee
status then use the port of entry such as airports, seaports and land borders.
● Inside Canada: Asylum seekers already within the country may forward their applications via Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offices. You must also
complete some forms and provide supporting information like identification papers and
any evidence of any harm towards the applicant.

Step 3 – Attend your Eligibility Interview
After your application gets submitted, you will be invited for an eligibility interview with an IRCC officer. During the meeting, a review process of your case will be conducted to check that it has met the basic case needs of being eligible as a refugee claim. In this manner, if your claim is deemed eligible, it will be forwarded for hearing by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada
(IRB).

Step 4 – Prepare for Refugee Hearing
One of the most crucial parts of the procedure is the refugee hearing. It is essential to get prepared for this hearing. This preparation should start months before your scheduled hearing. This is the time that you should spend working with your legal advisor or immigration lawyer to prepare. It will take time to obtain documents that corroborate your claim of persecution. Also, your legal advisor will prepare you to understand how to answer questions at the hearing.

Step 5 – Attend your Hearing
At your hearing, you will be able to tell your story. You will have a chance to elaborate on your written submission to make your story more understandable. The lawyer and the board member will ask you questions about your fear of persecution.

Step 6 – Receive a Decision
You may receive an oral decision at the hearing or a written decision will be sent to you. If you are accepted, congratulations; you will be under the protected person status and can apply for permanent residence. If your claim is not accepted you can appeal for the decision.

We understand that navigating the refugee process in Canada can be complex and we’re here to help you with every step. For more personalized assistance contact Robert Gertler at Gertler Law Office by calling 416-231-9188 or emailing robert@gertler.ca.