Seeking Safety. Finding Hope. Building a Future.
Canada is a global leader in humanitarian efforts and refugee protection. If you are fleeing persecution, war, or torture, you do not have to face the legal system alone. At SSPC Law, Simran Singh provides compassionate, zealous representation to help you navigate the complexities of Canada’s asylum system.
Your safety is not just a case; it is your life. Let us help you tell your story.
WHY Claim Asylum in Canada?
Canada offers specific legal protections not always available in other countries. By making a refugee claim, you are seeking:
- Protection from Return: Safety from being sent back to a country where you face risk.
- The Right to Work: Access to a work permit while your claim is in process.
- Healthcare: Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage.
- Permanent Residence: The opportunity to become a Permanent Resident and eventually a Canadian Citizen.
WHO Can Apply? (Eligibility)
Not everyone in Canada can make a refugee claim. Generally, you can apply if you fall into one of two categories defined by Canadian law:
1. Convention Refugee (Fear of Persecution)
You fear persecution based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Nationality
- Political Opinion
- Membership in a particular social group (e.g., gender identity, sexual orientation, or family ties).
2. Person in Need of Protection
You face a risk to your life, or a risk of cruel and unusual treatment/punishment, if returned to your home country. This includes risk of:
- Torture
- Death penalty
- Armed conflict (Civilian risk)
Exclusion:
You generally cannot make a claim if you have been granted protection in another country, arrived via the Canada-U.S. border (Safe Third Country Agreement exceptions apply), or have serious criminality issues.
HOW to Apply (The Process)
The refugee process has strict deadlines (usually 15 days for your Basis of Claim form). Missing a deadline can result in your claim being declared abandoned.
Step 1: Submit the Claim
You must submit your refugee claim package online via the IRCC Portal or in-person at an inland IRCC office/CBSA port of entry.
Step 2: Eligibility Interview
An officer determines if you are eligible to make a claim to the Refugee Protection Division (RPD).
Step 3: Prepare the Basis of Claim (BOC)
This is the most important document in your case. It is your written story detailing why you fear returning home. Simran Singh works with you to ensure every detail of your fear and trauma is properly translated into legal evidence.
Step 4: Refugee Hearing
You appear before a member of the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). You will testify under oath, and your lawyer will present your evidence and arguments.
Step 5: Decision
- Accepted: You apply for Permanent Residence.
- Rejected: You may be able to appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) or apply for a Judicial Review at the Federal Court.
WHY SSPC LAW?
Simran Singh understands that retelling trauma is difficult. She takes the time to listen.
“I didn’t just need a lawyer; I needed someone who believed me. Simran didn’t just look at my file; she looked at me.”
— Past Client (Name withheld for privacy)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Q: Can I work while my claim is in process?
A: Yes. After your claim is referred to the IRB, you can apply for a work permit. You must apply separately for this; it is not automatic.
Q: What if I don’t have a passport or ID?
A: That is common. Many refugees flee without documents. We can help you submit an explanation affidavit to explain the lack of documentation.
Q: Can my family members be included in my claim?
A: Yes. Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children inside Canada can be included. Family members overseas may be able to be added later via a “one-year window” application if you are successful.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: It varies. Typically, it can take 12–24 months from claim to decision, depending on the IRB’s schedule in your region and the complexity of your case.
Q: What happens if my claim is rejected?
A: A rejection is not always the end. You have options:
- Appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD).
- Apply for Judicial Review at the Federal Court.
- Apply for Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) .
- Apply for Permanent Residence on Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) grounds.
Do not wait. Asylum deadlines are strict and non-negotiable.
