Seeking asylum?
Seeking asylum in Canada involves individuals who have fled their home countries due to fear of persecution, violence, or threats based on factors such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. These individuals, known as asylum seekers, arrive in Canada and seek protection because returning to their home country poses a risk to their safety or life.
To seek asylum in Canada, individuals typically must:
1. Arrive in Canada: Asylum seekers physically arrive in Canada, often by various means, such as crossing the border, presenting themselves at a port of entry, or applying from within the country.
2. Make a Claim: They then make a formal request for protection (asylum claim) to the Canadian government, stating reasons why they fear returning to their home country.
3. Assessment Process: The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) reviews each asylum claim to determine its validity. This includes interviews and presenting evidence to support their fear of persecution in their home country.
4. Refugee Status Determination: If the IRB determines that an individual meets the criteria outlined in the United Nations Refugee Convention and Canadian immigration law, they may be granted refugee status.
Once granted refugee status, individuals are allowed to stay in Canada and are provided with certain rights, such as the right to work and access social services. It's crucial to note that seeking asylum is distinct from regular immigration processes, and each case is assessed based on its unique circumstances and the individual's need for protection.
