About the initial Refugee Claim Process:
1. Who is eligible to make a refugee claim?2. How do I begin a claim?
3. What’s the PIF?
4. How long before I have a refugee hearing and get a decision?
About Work Permits:
5. How do I get a work permit?6. What is a social insurance number and how do I get one?
About Legal Aid:
7. Can I get a lawyer for my claim?About IFH (Health)
8. What does IFH mean and does it cover everything?Other Topics
9. What do I do if my claim is refused?10. Why do people get picked up by police or detained by Immigration?
FAQ Answers:
1. You can claim refugee status in Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, if you are a person outside your country of nationality or residence and are unable or unwilling to return to that country because of a well-founded fear of persecution. You may fear persecution because of race, religion, political opinion, nationality, or membership in a particular social group. You must show that your own government cannot or will not provide protection and you cannot live in another region of your country. (See “Before you start?” and “Getting started” sections)
2. The first part of the refugee claim process is to establish your identity. To do this, you have to fill out some forms to explain WHO you are and WHY you are making a refugee claim. You also need to show where you come from, who is in your family and what you have done for the last ten years. (See “Before you start?” and “Getting started” sections).
3. PIF means Personal Information Form. It is the form you use to apply for refugee status in Canada. On the PIF, you have to explain why you think you are a refugee and provide proof. (See “Personal Information Form - PIF” section).
4. This depends on the number of other claims and many other factors. It takes approximately 10 months to one year to have the hearing. You may be given an answer at the hearing or you may have to wait a couple of months or longer to receive the decision. (See “Refugee Hearing” section).
5. Before you can apply for your work permit, you have to go to a doctor for a medical examination, fill out the Personal Information Form and submit it When you are ready to apply, call Citizenship and Immigration Canada and follow the voicemail message instructions to give them your address and ask for the application kit. When you get the kit, fill out the form and mail it. In order to be allowed to work in Canada, you must also have a Social Insurance Number (SIN). (See “Work Permit” section).
6. The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number used as a personal file identifier to administer various Canadian Government programs. You need one to be able to work in Canada. To get one you must complete an application form. You can obtain an application from your local office of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada or download one from their web site.
You must also provide a primary document that proves your identity and status in Canada. If the name on your primary document is different from the one you are currently using, you also need a supporting document. It is important that documents are originals and are written in English or French. You should receive your card by mail within three weeks from the date you submitted your application, providing it met all the qualifications.
7. You can contact a lawyer or an immigration consultant. If you are a person with low income you can contact the Legal Services Society to see if you qualify for Legal Aid and referral to a lawyer. You will need proof of you household income and the value of your assets, personal identification, your refugee claim papers and any other documents that will show your claim has merit. (See sections on “Legal Aid” and “lawyers & consultants / legal counsel”.)
8. IFH is the Interim Federal Health plan that covers basic medical needs for refugee claimants. (See “Health” section.)
9. If your claim is refused you will have to leave Canada unless a) you can show there is a new risk if you return to your country or b) unless you have unusual circumstances and qualify to stay under Humanitarian & Compassionate reasons. This is a complex issue and you should speak with a settlement worker at VRSA or a lawyer. (See “After the decision” section. )
10. You may get picked up by the authorities if you do not have any documentation and police are checking your right to be in Canada. This can happen too if you violate the terms and conditions set by immigration e.g a curfew. If you fail to report a change of address or do not maintain the required contact with immigration and the IRB, your case is considered abandoned and there is a warrant for your arrest.
It is important to comply with any terms and conditions and to let immigration know if you change your address and to attend all appointments.
