Making a Claim

Making a Claim

Making a Claim at Any Port of Entry (Airport, Seaport, Land Border)

You can make a claim for refugee protection upon arrival in Canada by following these steps:

1. Complete an Eligibility Interview:

• • Upon arrival, an officer from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will conduct an eligibility interview.
  • You will need to complete the application package, provide fingerprints, and have a photograph taken.

2. Fill Out Forms:

• • Forms will be provided by the CBSA officer and typically completed in person.
  • In some cases, the officer may schedule a future interview at the port of entry or an inland office, providing:
    • An information pamphlet
    • An acknowledgement of claim letter (for access to the Interim Federal Health Program and other services)
    • Instructions for completing a medical exam

3. Online Submission (if instructed):

• • If instructed to complete your claim online, you will need:
    • The application number from your acknowledgement of claim letter
    • The interview location provided by the officer.

4. After Submission:

• • If your claim is deemed eligible, it will be referred to the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) for a decision.
  • You will receive:
    • A Refugee Protection Claimant Document (for access to the Interim Federal Health Program and other services)
    • A Confirmation of Referral letter, confirming your claim’s referral to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB), along with the Claimant’s Guide.
    • A Basis of Claim (BOC) Form, which must be submitted to the RPD within 15 days of your claim referral. Refer to the Completing Your Basis of Claim Form page for more information.

For additional details, refer to the Important Instructions for Refugee Claimants.

If Applying After Arriving in Canada:

• • Submit a complete application online including all supporting documents and the BOC Form.
    If unable to submit online, request to submit on paper.
  • Work with a representative if needed, ensuring all necessary declarations are signed and uploaded.