Canada has a long and proud history ofwelcoming refugees, offering them a safe haven and the opportunity to build a new life. With its strong economy, diverse culture, and robust support systems, Canada can be an ideal destination for individuals seeking refuge from persecution or conflict.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of
the process for immigrating to Canada as a refugee. It covers:
● The Canadian Refugee System: Understanding the different pathways to refugee status in Canada.
● Sponsorship Programs: Exploring various sponsorship options available to refugees.
● Entry Requirements: Meeting the legal requirements for entering Canada as a refugee.
● Applying for Refugee Status: Navigating the application process and essential documents.
● Life in Canada: Accessing healthcare, education, employment, and other essential services.
● Tips for a Smooth Transition: Integrating into Canadian society and adapting to a new life.
This guide aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the journey towards a brighter future in Canada.
Understanding Canada’s Refugee
System: Pathways to Protection
Canada offers protection to individuals fleeing their home countries due to persecution or human rights violations. Two main programs facilitate this:
1. In-Canada Asylum Program:
● Eligibility: Individuals present in Canada can apply for refugee status with the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB).
● Protection Categories: The IRB assesses claims based on two categories:
○ Convention Refugee: Well-founded fear of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, social group, or political opinion.
○ Person in Need of Protection: Facing torture, risk of life, or cruel treatment in their home country.
● Process: The IRB conducts a hearing and determines the applicant’s eligibility. Applicants granted “protected person” status can apply for permanent residency; appeals are possible through the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD).
● Note: Certain limitations apply to asylum seekers arriving from the United States due to the Canada-US Safe Country Agreement.
2. Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement
Program:
● Eligibility: Individuals outside Canada needing protection must be referred by the UNHCR, designated organizations, or private sponsors. They may require a refugee status document.
● Resettlement: Refugees are resettled through various programs, including:
○ Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR): Government provides financial and settlement support.
○ Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR): Private groups provide support.
● Program Differences: The primary difference between GAR and PSR programs lies in the distribution of financial and non-financial support.
In-Canada Asylum Program:
Seeking Protection in Canada
The In-Canada Asylum Program offers refugee protection to individuals already present in Canada who:
● Cannot return to their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on:
○ Race
○ Religion
○ Political opinion
○ Nationality
○ Membership in a particular social group, such as women or the LGBTQ+ community
To qualify, individuals must demonstrate credible evidence of this fear.
Who may not be eligible for this program:
● Individuals convicted of serious crimes previously.
● Individuals with existing Convention refugee status or protected person status in Canada.
● Individuals who entered Canada from the United States through an official port of entry.
● Individuals who have established refugee claims in other countries.
● Individuals deemed inadmissible to Canada based on immigration regulations.
● Individuals who abandoned or withdrew previous refugee claims.
These are some of the main eligibility criteria and limitations. For detailed information and specific regulations, it is recommended to consult official government resources.
Economic Mobility Pathways
Pilot (EMPP)
The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) offers refugees a unique opportunity to settle and thrive in Canada by leveraging their skills and talents to contribute to the nation’s workforce.
Launched in 2018 by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), this innovative program challenges the perception of refugees as passive recipients of aid and instead recognizes them as valuable economic contributors.
EMPP provides an alternative pathway to permanent residency for skilled refugees seeking to fill gaps in Canada’s labor market. It utilizes existing avenues within economic immigration programs like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. This approach allows skilled refugees to be assessed
based on their potential economic contribution rather than solely on their need for resettlement.
Two types of EMPP programs exist:
Regional Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot
(Regional EMPP):
● Operates in designated regions of Canada.
● Requires nomination by a designated referral organization.
● Job offer within the settling region is mandatory.
Federal Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot
(Federal EMPP):
● Operates across Canada.
● No referral organization nomination required.
● Can apply without a job offer through the “No Job Offer” stream.
Eligibility criteria differ between the two
programs:
Regional EMPP:
● Application for permanent residence through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), AtlanticImmigration Pilot (AIP), or Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) must be submitted.
● Nomination, endorsement, or recommendation from a province, territory, or community is required.
● Applicants must be refugees or other displaced persons with the intent to settle in the region with a job offer.
Federal EMPP:
● Applicants must meet the requirements of either the “Job Offer” or “No Job Offer” stream.
Job Offer Stream:
● Full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a Canadian employer in a TEER category (0-5) is required.
● Education and experience must align with the job’s TEER category.
● Minimum one year of paid work experience within the same TEER categories (full-time or part-time/self-employment).
● Demonstrated English or French language skills with an approved test, meeting the minimum score for the job’s TEER category.
No Job Offer Stream:
● Minimum one year of paid full-time or equivalent part-time work from the last three years in TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 (self-employment not eligible).
● Canadian secondary school credential or a foreign degree/diploma/certificate with an Educational Credential Assessment issued within the last five years.
● Proven English or French language skills with an approved test, attaining a minimum CLB/NCLC 7 score in all four language abilities.
● Sufficient funds to support oneself and family in Canada (amount varies based on family size).
The EMPP presents a promising pathway for skilled refugees to build a fulfilling future in Canada, contributing their talents and expertise to the nation’s economic success. If you possess the necessary skills and qualifications, consider exploring this unique opportunity to become a permanent resident and join the diverse fabric of Canadian society.
Navigating the Path to Refugee
Status in Canada
While seeking refugee status can feel overwhelming, understanding the application process can alleviate some of the stress. To facilitate this, we’ve outlined the three primary stages involved:
1. Eligibility Assessment:
Before starting your application, it’s crucial to confirm whether you meet the criteria for refugee status in Canada. This information is readily available on the Government of Canada website. If unsure about your eligibility, consider seeking professional guidance from a certified
immigration expert.
2. Completing the Application:
Once eligibility is confirmed, you can access the application form through the Government of Canada website or the specific organization facilitating your claim. This form requires detailed information about your personal background, circumstances necessitating refugee status, and intended settlement plans in Canada.
3. Application Submission and Review:
After completing your application, submit it to the designated Refugee Processing Centre. This center will thoroughly review your documents and conduct any necessary interviews to determine whether to grant you refugee status.
While appearing straightforward, each step within this process can present challenges. Meeting eligibility requirements, gathering adequate documentation, and adhering to deadlines can be complex. Considering the critical nature of your claim, seeking assistance from a certified immigration expert, such as a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), is highly recommended.
An RCIC can:
● Assess your eligibility for specific refugee programs.
● Assist with completing application forms accurately and comprehensively.
● Guide you through regulatory requirements and procedures.
● Provide support and advocacy throughout the process.
Why Canada Welcomes Refugees:
A Land of Opportunity and Support
Safety and Security:
● Canada enjoys a global reputation for peace and stability, boasting historically low crime rates and a strong commitment to human rights and the rule of law. This provides refugees with a secure environment to rebuild their lives without fear of violence or oppression.
Open and Diverse Society:
● Canada prides itself on its multicultural fabric and welcoming attitude towards newcomers. Refugees are embraced for their unique cultures and perspectives, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging. Government policies and programs actively promote diversity and combat discrimination, creating a supportive environment for integration.
Robust Support Systems:
● Canada has a well-established infrastructure to support refugees. This includes financial assistance, health care access, language training, and settlement services.
Refugees receive guidance and resources to find housing, secure employment, and enroll children in schools, facilitating a smooth transition into Canadian society.
Economic Opportunities:
● Canada’s thriving economy presents promising prospects for skilled refugees. The nation faces labor shortages in various sectors, offering refugees ample opportunities to contribute their talents and expertise. Government programs prioritize refugee integration into the workforce, providing access to skills training and job opportunities.
Path to Permanent Residency:
● Canada offers multiple pathways for refugees to obtain permanent residency and build a stable future in the country. The In-Canada Asylum Program and various resettlement programs provide avenues for establishing citizenship, enabling refugees to fully participate in Canadian society and enjoy its long-term benefits.
It’s important to remember that every refugee’s experience and needs are unique. While Canada offers significant advantages, individual circumstances and preferences should be carefully considered when
choosing a safe haven. However, with its commitment to safety, diversity,
support, and opportunity, Canada undoubtedly stands out as a highly desirable destination for individuals seeking refuge and the chance to build a new life.