How to become a refugee in Canada?
In a world marked by turmoil, seeking asylum is a path toward hope and survival. This blog serves as a guide through the intricate process of becoming a refugee in Canada. From understanding eligibility criteria to navigating legal procedures, join us as we unravel the essential steps and insights crucial for those seeking safety and sanctuary in this compassionate nation. Canada’s reputation for embracing diversity and extending a welcoming hand to refugees makes it a beacon of hope. Let’s embark on this journey together, empowering individuals with the knowledge needed to navigate the path to seeking asylum in Canada.
How do you qualify as a refugee in Canada?
To qualify for refugee protection, demonstrating an inability to return to your home country due to fear of persecution is essential. This fear must stem from at least one of the following grounds:
- Race or nationality, such as belonging to a marginalized ethnic or language group.
- Religion, including being a part of a religious minority or converting to another faith.
- Membership in a specific social group, such as facing violence due to sexual orientation, or gender, or fearing persecution based on familial connections.
- Holding a political opinion, like being a journalist, human rights activist, or considered an opponent of the government.
- Facing a personal risk not experienced by the general population, for instance, being targeted due to reporting criminal activities to local authorities.
- Risk of severe mental or physical harm, including torture by government authorities to obtain information or as a punishment.
Find out if you are eligible to get in Canada →
How long does the refugee process take in Canada?
If you are applying for a refugee claim the average waiting time is around 24 months to get the final answer about your case. But if you are applying for a refugee appeal it can take around 12 months only, this average waiting times are calculated depending on the past 2 years.
Who can sponsor me as a refugee to Canada?
The Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) program enables private entities to sponsor eligible refugees from abroad. As the sponsor, your role involves supporting a refugee for typically up to a year, encompassing:
- Covering initial expenses like furniture and clothing
- Providing ongoing monthly support for essential needs such as housing, food, and transportation
- Offering social and emotional assistance to refugees
To sponsor a refugee, you must be part of specific groups in Canada:
- Sponsorship agreement holders (SAH) who have agreements with the Canadian government to aid refugees arriving in Canada.
- Constituent Groups collaborating with SAHs to sponsor refugees under the SAH’s agreement.
- Groups of Five consisting of five or more Canadian citizens or permanent residents sponsoring refugees to settle within their communities.
- Community Sponsors, including organizations, associations, or corporations participating in refugee sponsorship.
Can I sponsor a refugee I know?
You have the option to sponsor a particular refugee or a refugee family who meets the eligibility criteria under the PSR program.
If you opt to sponsor a refugee, you know:
- The processing time might be extended compared to sponsoring a refugee already reviewed by authorities.
- You won’t receive financial aid from the Government of Canada.
The sponsorship process varies based on the type of sponsorship group you belong to:
- Sponsorship Agreement Holder
- Group of Five
- Community Sponsor
Can you work in Canada if you are a refugee?
In Canada, refugees need a work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to be employed, which can be challenging to obtain. Seeking legal assistance is advisable.
Most refugee claimants can request a work permit from IRCC after their claims have been referred to the Refugee Protection Division of the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). Generally, those unable to support themselves without public aid are eligible. Additionally, a medical examination report might be necessary.
Applying for a work permit involves completing an application and sending it to IRCC along with supporting documents like a passport/travel document copy. They must also provide proof of submitting their Personal Information Form to the IRB as part of their refugee status application or a completed IRB-stamped Personal Information Form.
Once granted by IRCC, refugees can seek a social insurance number (SIN) for legal employment, tax payments, and access to government services. Refugees applying for work permits or SINs are exempt from fees.
How do you make a refugee claim?
Here’s an alternate way to express the process of making a refugee claim in Canada:
To seek refugee status in Canada, you have two options for making your claim: either in person when you arrive at a Canadian port of entry or online if you’re already in the country. Your claim should include details about your background, family, and reasons for seeking refugee status. Additionally, upon making your claim, you can also apply for a work permit simultaneously.
Obtain a work or study permit while your refugee claim is being processed:
For a work permit:
- If you make your claim at a port of entry, you can express your interest in a work permit to the border services officer. The actual permit isn’t granted at the entry point; if eligible, it will be issued after your medical examination.
- Submitting your claim online allows you to request a work permit within the application. However, issuance depends on your claim’s eligibility for referral to the IRB and completion of your medical examination. Explore eligibility and application details for a work permit.
For a study permit:
You cannot apply for a study permit concurrently with your refugee claim submission. You’ll need to make a separate application. Learn about eligibility and the application process for a study permit.
In concluding this guide on seeking asylum in Canada, it’s evident that the journey to becoming a refugee is one marked by resilience, hope, and the pursuit of safety. While the path may be intricate, the compassion and support offered by Canada stand as a beacon for those in search of sanctuary. Remember, this journey is not merely about navigating legal procedures; it’s a testament to human strength and the universal pursuit of a better, safer life. May this guide empower and provide clarity to those embarking on this transformative journey, fostering a new beginning and offering a sense of belonging in a nation known for its inclusivity and compassion towards those seeking asylum.
