What Happens After Approval
When the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) approves your refugee claim, you become a "protected person" in Canada. This means Canada recognizes that you need protection from persecution. You will receive a decision letter from the IRB explaining the approval.
Immediately after approval, several important things happen:
- 1.You are no longer in removal proceedings: Immigration Canada cannot deport you based on your refugee claim. You can remain in Canada legally.
- 2.You receive a decision letter: The IRB sends you an official letter confirming your protected person status and explaining your rights.
- 3.You can apply for permanent residence: You become eligible to apply for permanent residence status, which leads to citizenship eligibility after 3 years.
- 4.Your work permit remains valid: Your existing work permit continues to be valid. You can continue working or change jobs.
- 5.You can access government benefits: You become eligible for provincial health coverage, social assistance benefits, and other services available to residents.
Applying for Permanent Residence
After receiving protected person status, you can apply for permanent residence (PR). This is an important step because permanent residence gives you additional rights and is required before you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
The PR application process includes:
Eligibility for PR
As a protected person, you are automatically eligible to apply for PR. You do not need to meet job requirements or language thresholds. IRCC may contact you automatically to help you apply, or you can apply on your own.
The Application Form
You will need to complete application forms provided by IRCC. Forms include personal information, background, security checks, and medical examination. Most applications can be submitted online through IRCC's Secure Client Portal.
Medical and Security Checks
You will need to complete a medical examination by an IRCC-approved physician and undergo security background checks. These checks ensure you meet health and security requirements for PR status.
Processing Timeline
PR applications for protected persons are typically processed within 6 months. Once approved, you receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can apply for a permanent resident card (PR card).
Travel Documents and International Travel
As a protected person, you have options for international travel. However, you cannot use your passport from your country of origin if that country is persecuting you. Instead, you can apply for a travel document.
Protected Person Travel Document
IRCC can issue a protected person travel document that allows you to travel internationally. This document is recognized by most countries and serves as proof of your status and identity. Apply through your local IRCC office or online.
Permanent Resident Card (PR Card)
Once you become a permanent resident, you can apply for a PR card. This card allows you to travel to Canada by air and proves your PR status. It is valid for 5 years. You must have the PR card to board flights to Canada.
Important Travel Restrictions
Do NOT return to your country of persecution, as this could jeopardize your protected status. If you travel to another country, ensure you can return to Canada. Some countries may not recognize your protected person status.
Maintaining Permanent Residence
As a PR, residence must be maintained in Canada. Physical presence in Canada is required for at least 730 days during each 5-year period. Failing to meet this requirement can result in loss of PR status.
Your Rights in Canada
Once you have protected person status, you have significant rights in Canada. You are protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and Canadian law.
- ✓Right to work: You can work for any employer in Canada without restrictions
- ✓Right to study: You can attend school or university in Canada at domestic tuition rates
- ✓Right to healthcare: You are entitled to provincial health coverage and access to public healthcare
- ✓Right to social benefits: You may qualify for employment insurance, child benefits, and other government programs
- ✓Right to legal protection: You are protected by Canadian law and can access the justice system
- ✓Right to freedom of expression: You have freedom of speech, religion, and assembly like other residents
- ✓Right to travel within Canada: You can travel freely throughout the country
- ✓Right to sponsor family: Once approved for PR, you can sponsor family members to join you
Your Obligations and Responsibilities
With your protected person status and rights come important obligations. These responsibilities help ensure you maintain your status and comply with Canadian law.
- •Obey Canadian laws: Federal, provincial, and local laws must be followed. Criminal convictions can affect immigration status.
- •Report to IRCC if required: If IRCC requests periodic reporting, compliance is necessary. Failure to report can result in legal consequences.
- •Maintain residency requirements: As a PR, residence in Canada is required for at least 730 days in each 5-year period.
- •File taxes: You are required to file tax returns if you earn income in Canada. This is true even if you owe no taxes.
- •Update IRCC with address changes: IRCC must be notified within 30 days if a change in mailing address or residential address occurs.
- •Do not sponsor false information: If you sponsor family members, you are responsible for ensuring the information is accurate and truthful.
- •Comply with conditions of your status: If IRCC placed specific conditions on status, compliance is required.
Benefits and Social Services
As a protected person and resident of Canada, you are eligible for many government benefits and services. These programs support your integration and well-being in Canada.
Healthcare
You are entitled to provincial health coverage, including doctor visits, hospital care, and emergency services. You can register with a provincial health insurance plan (OHIP in Ontario, MSP in BC, etc.).
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
You can apply for a SIN from Service Canada. This number is required for employment, taxes, and accessing government benefits.
Child Benefits
If you have dependent children, you may be eligible for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), which provides monthly payments based on your family income.
Employment Insurance (EI)
If you lose your job, you may qualify for employment insurance benefits. Your employer deducts EI premiums from your pay, making you eligible.
Old Age Security (OAS)
Protected persons who meet residency requirements can qualify for OAS benefits at age 65. You do not need to be a Canadian citizen to receive OAS.
Provincial Social Assistance
If self-support is not possible, qualification for provincial social assistance (welfare) may be available. Eligibility varies by province. Provincial ministries of social services provide information about programs.
Example Conversations After Approval
This shows language such as what you might encounter when discussing your next steps after receiving protected person status.
At IRCC Office Discussing PR Application:
IRCC Officer:
"Congratulations on receiving your protected person status. I would like to help you apply for permanent residence. Do you have any questions about the process?"
Language such as:
"Thank you. I would like to apply for permanent residence so I can stay in Canada permanently. What documents do I need to provide?"
IRCC Officer:
"You will need to complete medical and security checks. You will also need to provide identity documents and information about your family. We can help you with the application forms today."
At Service Canada Applying for SIN:
Service Canada Agent:
"Welcome. I understand you have received protected person status and would like to apply for a Social Insurance Number?"
Language such as:
"Yes, I recently received my protected person status and I would like to start working. I need a SIN to work legally in Canada. I have my protected person travel document and identification."
Service Canada Agent:
"Perfect. I can process your application today. Your SIN should arrive within a few days. This number will allow you to work and file taxes."
Planning Family Reunification
After receiving protected person status, you can begin the process of sponsoring family members to join you in Canada. This is an important step toward reunification.
Sponsorship Eligibility
As a protected person or permanent resident, you can sponsor family members including spouse, dependent children, parents, and grandparents. The sponsorship process requires you to prove you can financially support your family members.
Spouse and Dependent Children
Spouse and dependent children can usually be sponsored more quickly than other family members. They are processed through the family sponsorship program and can typically join you within 12 months.
Parents and Grandparents
Parents and grandparents sponsorship is available, but processing times are longer and there are annual intake limits. Priority is given to spouses and children.
Next Steps
Contact IRCC to learn about sponsorship options for your specific family situation. Consider consulting with an immigration lawyer to understand your options and strengthen your application. In the meantime, maintain contact with your family and explore communication options.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration processes and entitlements can vary by province and individual circumstances. For specific questions about your protected person status or immigration options, contact IRCC or consult with a legal aid provider.