Section 1 – Refugee Claim Process
CIC Documents and What They Mean
Determination of Eligibility –The first interview is only to determine if you are eligible to enter the Refugee Claim process so that your application can be sent to the Immigration & Refugee Board for a refugee hearing. If this is positive, your status is that of “Refugee Claimant”. It DOES NOT mean you are accepted as a refugee yet.
The eligibility document you receive shows who you are and what your immigration status is. It allows you to remain in Canada as long as the process is underway. Do not lose this document. IT CANNOT BE REPLACED.
Interim Federal Health coverage (IFH) - included with your Determination of Eligibility Document.
Notice of Seizure – This is a notification letter from CIC that shows any documents taken away from you. It usually lists any ID papers you brought. You cannot recover your documents during the claim process.
Personal Information Form (PIF) – This is the key document for your claim. It is where you give all your personal information and explain why you need to make a claim. You must be clear about your reasons, including any relevant information and documents that prove your case. Once you receive the package, you have 28 DAYS to complete the PIF in one of Canada’s official languages: ENGLISH or FRENCH. See “Personal Information Form” section for more details.
Work Permit – This allows you to work in Canada legally. It is illegal and dangerous to work without it. The permit is free for refugee claimants and is valid for a set period. You must renew it at least 1 month before the expiry date. You can apply for it after completing the medical exams and sending the PIF to the IRB. It can take up to 5 months, or more, to get your work permit. If your claim is rejected and you need to renew the permit it will cost $150. See “Work permit” section for more detail.
Notice to Appear –It informs you of the date and time of your Refugee Claim Hearing where you can explain the reasons for your claim. It may be several months before you receive this Notice.
Conditional Departure Order –This is a ‘stand-by’ order to leave Canada (included with the PIF package). If your claim is rejected or abandoned, this order is activated and you will have to leave Canada voluntarily within the next 30 days.
Deportation Order – This is given to anyone who has completed the entire refugee process, had a negative decision, and has not left voluntarily. It means you will be deported and CANNOT RETURN to Canada.
