You may qualify if you:
Are physically present in Canada
Fear persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, or
Face a risk to life, torture, or cruel and unusual treatment if returned to your home country
Are not barred from making a refugee claim under Canadian law
Claims are assessed by the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
Identity documents and passport (if available)
Detailed personal narrative and supporting evidence
Country condition documents
Police certificates (if available)
Medical examination results
Eligibility screening
Submission of refugee claim
Refugee Protection Division (RPD) hearing
Decision by the IRB
Application for permanent residence (if accepted)
Government Fees (Subject to Change)
No government processing fee
Biometrics fee (if applicable)
Varies by case and hearing availability
Processing times are estimates and determined by IRCC or the IRB.
You may qualify as a protected person if:
Your refugee claim has been accepted in Canada, or
You received a positive decision through a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA)
You are admissible to Canada
Protected persons may apply for permanent residence.
Identity documents and passport (if available)
Detailed personal narrative and supporting evidence
Country condition documents
Police certificates (if available)
Medical examination results
Eligibility screening
Submission of refugee claim
Refugee Protection Division (RPD) hearing
Decision by the IRB
Application for permanent residence (if accepted)
Government Fees (Subject to Change)
No government processing fee
Biometrics fee (if applicable)
Varies by case and hearing availability
Processing times are estimates and determined by IRCC or the IRB.
You may qualify if:
You do not meet the requirements of a regular immigration program
You would face significant hardship if required to leave Canada
You have established strong ties in Canada
Factors such as the best interests of a child apply
H&C applications are discretionary and assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Proof of establishment in Canada
Evidence of hardship if required to leave Canada
Letters of support
Proof relating to family ties in Canada
Evidence addressing best interests of a child (if applicable)
Document requirements vary depending on individual circumstances.
Case assessment and strategy development
Application preparation and submission
IRCC review
Decision by IRCC
Timelines vary significantly depending on case complexity.
Government Fees (Subject to Change)
IRCC processing fee applies
Biometrics fee (if applicable)
Often lengthy due to discretionary review
Processing times are estimates and determined by IRCC or the IRB.
No. Each claim is assessed individually based on evidence and credibility.
Eligible claimants may apply for a work permit while awaiting a decision.
Yes. Eligible family members may be included or sponsored later, depending on the pathway
No. H&C applications address hardship and humanitarian factors, not refugee protection.