Licensed Canadian immigration guidance

In-Canada Refugee Claim

A refugee claim can be made by someone already in Canada, or at a Canadian port of entry, who cannot safely return to their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution or a risk of serious harm.

A sharper service plan

Built around the decision your file needs

The right service is more than a checklist. It is a sequence that turns your facts into a coherent, review-ready pathway.

Diagnose

Start with the facts, goals, history and deadlines that shape the route.

Build

Organize evidence, explanations and forms around the decision-maker’s concern.

Protect

Keep ownership, communication and the next deadline visible from start to finish.

What this service covers

Read the detail, then choose the next step

Use the guide below to understand the route before you book. Your existing page content remains the source of truth; this surface gives it the same visual hierarchy as the reference homepage.

Talk through your file
  1. 01
    The Claim Process

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

  2. 02
    Frequently Asked Questions

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

  3. 03
    Related Pages

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

Your service guide

The details that move the file forward

Review the complete guide below, then use the consultation path when your situation needs a tailored strategy.

A refugee claim can be made by someone already in Canada, or at a Canadian port of entry, who cannot safely return to their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution or a risk of serious harm.

Key figures at a glance

Source sequence preserved
IRBDecides the claim
2steps Eligibility then merits hearing
Workpermit Generally available while pending
PRRARoute if claim is refused

The Claim Process

Application timeline

Application timeline

Sequence and requirements

Official data
StepWhat happens
1. Eligibility screeningIRCC or CBSA determines whether the claim can proceed to a hearing
2. Basis of Claim formDetailed written account of the claim submitted
3. IRB hearingThe Immigration and Refugee Board assesses the claim's merits
4. DecisionClaim accepted (protected person status) or refused
5. If refusedPossible routes include appeal, judicial review, or a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment
Presented in the supplied source sequenceReviewed 2026
Canadian flag outside a modern building
A place to buildThe destination is important, but a well-supported route makes the next step clearer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work while my claim is being decided?

Most claimants become eligible to apply for a work permit once their claim is found eligible and referred to the IRB.

What happens if my claim is refused?

Depending on the circumstances, options can include an appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division, judicial review, or a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment before any removal proceeds.

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A route through CanadaA Canadian destination becomes more attainable when the route and evidence are planned together.

Related Pages

CTA: Book a Free Consultation for guidance on the refugee claim process.

Clear answers, before you decide

Frequently asked questions

Get a concise answer about this pathway and what to verify before you take the next step.

What does this in-canada refugee claim guide cover?

How to file a refugee claim in Canada: eligibility screening, the IRB hearing process, and work permit eligibility while your claim is pending.

Who may be a fit for in-canada refugee claim?

The right fit depends on your status, goal, history, documents, family circumstances and the current program instructions. Review the eligibility section first and compare your facts with the official requirements.

Which documents are commonly important for in-canada refugee claim?

Identity, status, education, language, work, family, financial and travel records may matter depending on the route. Use the page as a preparation list, then confirm the exact document request for your application.

How do I start planning in-canada refugee claim?

Begin by writing down your goal, current location and status, key dates, relevant experience, family details and any previous applications. Those facts help identify which requirements need verification first.

What can delay or weaken planning for in-canada refugee claim?

Inconsistent information, missing evidence, an incorrect pathway, an unexplained gap, an overlooked deadline or failure to follow the latest instructions can create avoidable risk.

Which official source should I check for in-canada refugee claim?

Use the current IRCC, provincial, regulatory or other decision-maker source linked from the page for the rule that applies to your situation. Check the source date before relying on a score, fee, form or deadline.

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