Seeking refuge in Canada involves a well-established process designed to provide protection to individuals facing persecution, violence, or danger in their home countries.

Here's an overview of the refugee process in Canada:

1. Eligibility and Application:

Refugees must be outside their home country to apply for resettlement in Canada.

  • The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) or another designated referral organization usually refers refugees to Canada.
  • Individuals can also apply directly if they are outside their home country and unable to return due to a well-founded fear of persecution.

2. Private Sponsorship:

  • In addition to government-sponsored refugees, Canada allows private citizens, groups, or organizations to sponsor refugees. This involves taking responsibility for their settlement and integration into Canadian society.

3. Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR):

  • Individuals identified and referred by the UNHCR or another referral organization can be considered for resettlement in Canada as government-assisted refugees.
  • They receive support from the Canadian government for their initial settlement.

4. Private Sponsorship Program (PSR):

  • Private citizens or organizations can sponsor refugees directly, committing to providing financial and emotional support for the refugee’s settlement in Canada.
  • This program aims to involve the community in helping refugees integrate into Canadian society.

5. Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) Program:

  • A partnership between the government and private sponsors, where the government covers initial resettlement costs, and private sponsors offer support.
  • Refugees under this program receive a blend of financial and emotional support.

6. Application and Processing:

  • Once identified or referred, refugees go through a thorough screening and vetting process to assess their eligibility for resettlement in Canada.
  • Security and health checks are conducted, and applicants must meet the definition of a refugee as per international law.

7. Permanent Residency:

  • Upon successful approval of their refugee status, individuals are granted permanent residency in Canada.
  • They have the right to work, access healthcare, and pursue educational opportunities.

8. Integration Support:

  • Government-assisted refugees receive support from settlement agencies, while privately sponsored refugees benefit from the assistance of their sponsoring groups.
  • Integration programs help refugees adjust to life in Canada, including language training, job support, and cultural orientation.

If you're a refugee interested in exploring ways to come to Canada, we invite you to book an appointment for a consultation with our expert consultants. Discover your immigration possibilities and take the first step towards a new chapter

Book your appointment here.