Seeking asylum in Canada is a life-changing decision — often made under extreme distress.
If you are in Canada and have a well-founded fear of persecution, torture, or risk to your life in your home country, you may have the right to make a refugee claim.
The refugee claim process is complex. Even a small mistake on your forms or at your hearing can lead to refusal — and put your safety in jeopardy.
At Cambria Law Firm, our Mississauga refugee lawyers guide clients through every step of the asylum process with precision, empathy, and determination.
We understand how much is at stake and will handle your case with the discretion and powerful advocacy it deserves.
Understanding the Refugee Claim Process in Canada
A refugee claim is a legal application made to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) — an independent tribunal that decides if you qualify for protection.
To succeed, you must prove that you meet the definition of a Convention Refugee or a Person in Need of Protection.
Our job is to help you gather the right evidence and present your story in a clear, compelling way.
Step 1: Making Your Claim
You can make a refugee claim:
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At a port of entry (e.g., Pearson International Airport) when you arrive in Canada, or
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At an IRCC office if you are already inside Canada.
Once your claim is accepted for processing, you’ll receive a Basis of Claim (BOC) Form, which becomes the cornerstone of your entire case.
Step 2: The Basis of Claim (BOC) Form
The BOC form is the foundation of your refugee claim. It must tell your full story — who you are, what you fear, and why your government cannot or will not protect you.
How We Help:
This is where our experience matters most.
We work closely with you to ensure your narrative is truthful, detailed, and legally persuasive.
Our team helps you collect essential documentation, such as:
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Medical or police reports supporting your story
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Country condition and human rights reports
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News articles or NGO statements proving risk in your region
A carefully prepared BOC often determines whether your claim succeeds or fails.
Step 3: The Refugee Hearing (Refugee Protection Division – RPD)
Your claim will be heard by a Board Member at the Refugee Protection Division (RPD), who will question you about your BOC form and the reasons for your fear.
How We Help:
We prepare you thoroughly through mock hearings and strategy sessions.
During your hearing, our lawyers:
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Present evidence and supporting witnesses
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Make strong legal arguments based on Canadian refugee law
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Ensure the Board Member considers your case fairly and respectfully
You are never alone — we are by your side throughout the entire process.
What if My Refugee Claim Is Refused?
A refusal is not the end of your protection options.
You may have the right to appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD), where we can challenge legal or factual errors made at the RPD.
In some cases, we can even submit new evidence that was not available during your original hearing.
We also represent clients in Judicial Reviews at the Federal Court of Canada, challenging unfair or unreasonable decisions.
Learn more on our Immigration Appeals & Judicial Reviews page.
Why Choose Cambria Law for Your Refugee Claim
Experienced Representation:
We have successfully represented refugee claimants from regions including South Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East — each with unique legal and evidentiary needs.
Meticulous BOC Preparation:
We dedicate the necessary time to your Basis of Claim form — knowing it’s the key to success.
Compassionate & Confidential:
We understand the trauma and uncertainty you may be facing. Your story is handled with complete discretion.
Litigation-Focused:
We are experienced hearing lawyers, comfortable cross-examining witnesses, arguing complex cases, and navigating every stage of the tribunal process.
Return to our Mississauga Immigration Law Hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a Convention Refugee and a Person in Need of Protection?
A Convention Refugee fears persecution for one of five reasons:
race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group (e.g., LGBTQ+, women facing gender-based violence).
A Person in Need of Protection faces a risk to life, torture, or cruel and unusual punishment, even if not for one of those five reasons.
We assess which category your situation fits best.
2. Can I work or study while I wait for my refugee claim hearing?
Yes.
Once your claim is found eligible and referred to the RPD, you can apply for:
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An open work permit,
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A study permit, and
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Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) coverage for medical needs.
3. What is a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)?
A PRRA is different from a refugee claim.
It is for people already facing removal from Canada who now face a new risk of persecution or harm.
A refugee claim is your initial request for protection before any removal order is issued.
Seek Protection. Start Your Claim Safely.
Your safety and future in Canada depend on acting quickly.
Do not risk your claim by handling it alone.
Contact Cambria Law Firm today for a confidential consultation with an experienced refugee claim lawyer in Mississauga.
