GBWS

What Is a Refugee Claim in Canada?

The refugee’s claim in Canada  is a petition to the Canadian Government. Individuals assert a refuge for protection against harm or persecution in their native land. You are eligible to claim if you are living in Canada or coming to a Canadian border and are not able to safely go back to home.Roughly, Canada provides protection to two categories of people convention Refugees: One group who are afraid of being persecuted because of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social groups and People in Need of Protection, who are at risk of being subjected to torture, inhumane treatment, or to danger to life if returned to their state.

  • Canada provides protection to people who cannot safely return to their country of origin.

  • A successful claim allows you to stay in Canada as a protected person, with the right to live and work.

  • Access to healthcare, social assistance, and community support during the claim process.

  • Opportunity to apply for Permanent Residency once your claim is accepted by the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).

Step 1 – File Your Claim

You may make a refugee claim at a Canadian border or an IRCC office. GBWS assists in preparing all the forms and documents needed.

 

Step 2 – Eligibility Interview

An IRCC or CBSA officer examines your claimAssuming that you qualify, it is sent to the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) for a hearing.

 

Step 3 – BOC(Basis of Claim) Form

This format describes your narrative and grounds for protection. GBWS assists you in filling it out clearly and concisely with documentation.

 

Step 4 – Refugee Hearing

You have a hearing with the RPD, where your application is discussed. At GBWS we  prepare you to present your narrative confidently.

 

Step 5 – Decision and Next Steps

If accepted, you are made a Protected Person and can apply for Permanent Residence in Canada. If rejected, we can help with appeals or reviews.

You might be able to make a refugee claim if you:

  • Are within Canada or entering a Canadian port of entry.
  • Are not subject to a removal order.
  • Have not been granted protection or refugee status in another nation where you can safely reside.
  • Have not committed grave crimes or human rights abuses.
    Our GBWS consultants consider your history thoroughly prior to submission to ensure that your claim satisfies all Canadian law eligibility and admissibility requirements.

To advance your refugee claim in Canada, GBWS helps you gather all necessary documentation, including:

  • Valid passport or identity papers
  • Police and court records (where available)
  • Persecution or threat evidence
  • Witness affidavits or letters
  • Country condition reports and human rights documentation
  • Filled Basis of Claim (BOC) form
  • Immigration medical examination report (if needed)

All documents are screened and prepared to satisfy RPD and IRCC requirements, giving you a better chance of approval.

Once you are designated as a Protected Person, you acquire vital rights and privileges in Canada:

  • Legal protection against deportation
  • Permission to access Canadian healthcare and a work permit
  • Permit to apply for Permanent Residence after 12 months

Permission to access education, housing, and settlement settlement support services

If your application is rejected, don’t give up. There might be possibilities. GBWS offers professional support for:

  • Refugee Appeals to the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD)
  • Judicial Reviews with the Federal Court of Canada
  • Reconsideration applications with fresh evidence or updated country reports

Our experts develop sound legal arguments, coordinate supporting documents, and get your case heard effectively and clearly throughout the appeal procedure.

Processing Time and Associated Costs

Government filing fees are not required for refugee claims filed within Canada. Some associated costs might be applied for translations, document certification, or medical examinations. Processing times vary with the Refugee Protection Division’s workload and the complexity of your case  most claims process in 12 to 24 months from initiation to decision. GBWS offers transparent, clear timelines and cost estimates prior to commencing your process.

At GBWS Immigration Services, we feel that all individuals deserve safety, dignity, and an opportunity to start a new. Our specialists are committed to treating every claim  a refugee in Canada  with  professionalism, precision, and understanding, meeting compliance to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Refugees’ Protection Division (RPD) expectations. Regardless of whether you are currently in Canada or are traveling to its borders, GBWS offers you the advice and advocacy you require to begin a new life legally and safely in Canada.