Know Your Rights as a
Immigrant in Canada.
You Are Protected Under Canadian and International Law
Understand your rights under IRPA, the Charter, and international refugee conventions. Free guides on refugee claims, IRB hearings, appeals, healthcare, work permits, and more.
How Can We Help You?
Whether you are making a refugee claim, preparing for an IRB hearing, or need healthcare information, start here.
Making a Refugee Claim
Step-by-step process from port of entry or inland claim to IRB hearing.
Know Your Rights
Understand the laws that protect refugees and asylum seekers in Canada.
Find a Refugee Lawyer
Search our directory of immigration lawyers and RCICs experienced in refugee law.
Interactive Tools
Timeline estimator, legal aid finder, document checklist, and IFHP coverage checker.
How This Platform Works
Free, plain-language legal information to help you understand and navigate the refugee protection system in Canada.
Learn Your Rights
Read plain-language guides on IRPA, the Charter, and refugee conventions that protect you.
Understand the Process
Follow step-by-step guides on claims, hearings, appeals, and healthcare access.
Get Professional Help
When ready to proceed, find a qualified refugee lawyer or RCIC through our directory.
Common Issues Facing Refugees
Detailed information on the most common challenges refugees and asylum seekers face in Canada.
Real Cases That Shaped Refugee Law
Landmark decisions from the Supreme Court of Canada, Federal Court, and IRB that define refugee rights and protections.
Browse Real CasesExplore Our Resources
Comprehensive legal information organized to help you understand and navigate every aspect of the refugee protection system.
Guides
Detailed step-by-step guides on refugee claims, hearings, appeals, and more.
Issues
Deep dives into specific problems: detention, removal orders, IFHP, work permits.
Scenarios
Real-life situations with dialogue examples and practical information.
Learn
SEO articles answering the most-searched refugee and asylum questions in Canada.
Interactive Tools
Timeline estimator, legal aid finder, document checklist builder, IFHP checker.
Programs
Government and NGO programs available to refugees and asylum seekers.
Find a Refugee Lawyer or RCIC
Search our directory of immigration professionals experienced in refugee protection, asylum claims, and humanitarian applications.
Browse DirectoryFrequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about refugee claims and asylum in Canada.
How do I make a refugee claim in Canada?
A refugee claim can be made at a port of entry (airport, land border, or seaport) or at an inland IRCC office. The claimant must demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
What is the Safe Third Country Agreement?
The Safe Third Country Agreement (STCA) between Canada and the United States generally requires refugee claimants to seek protection in the first safe country they arrive in. As of March 2023, the STCA applies to the entire border, not just official ports of entry.
Can I work while my refugee claim is being processed?
Refugee claimants may apply for an open work permit once their claim has been referred to the IRB. Processing times vary, but work permits are typically issued within a few weeks of application.
What healthcare do refugees receive in Canada?
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) provides temporary health coverage to eligible refugees and refugee claimants, including basic healthcare, emergency dental, vision care, and mental health services.
Interactive Tools
Free tools to help you understand timelines, check eligibility, and prepare documentation.
Support Free Legal Information
MyImmigrantRights.ca is free for every refugee and asylum seeker in Canada. Your support helps us maintain and expand this resource.