Canada has become one of the top destinations for asylum seekers due to its commitment to offering protection and safety to those fleeing persecution and violence. However, understanding the timelines associated with the asylum process can be critical for individuals seeking protection. The time it takes for your asylum claim to be processed can vary based on several factors, such as your country of origin, documentation, and complexity of your case.
The process for applying for an asylum is quite simple, commencing with determining whether or not you qualify to make a refugee claim in Canada. There are two places where this can be done: at an entry port, such as an airport or land border, or one of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offices.
After referral to the IRB, a hearing with the Refugee Protection Division will have to be scheduled. The time required to organize this hearing may take some time. Generally, hearings are convened within 60 days for claimants from DCOs and 90 to 120 days after the referral for applicants from other countries. Those factors would, however push it much further due to the complexities of your case or the backlog at the time.
Short Wait Times for Certain Countries: If you are from a country where the asylum process is relatively simple, then your hearing might be scheduled and closed within six months.
It means for the complicated cases, you will have a wait even up to more than a year.
The most important part of the asylum process is when the hearing takes place at the Refugee Protection Division. A day usually fills up with the hearing, wherein you are given the chance to outline your case at a tribunal.
The ruling is usually done within weeks of your hearing, but sometimes it might take it for a few months if further information or documentation is needed.
Your hearing over, you'll have to wait for the RPD decision about whether you are eligible to receive protection as a refugee. Normally a decision is returned in a matter of weeks or even months after the case, depending on its nature. Sometimes a decision isn't made until **12 months** or more since your application date.
For one, it experiences frequent backlogging due to high applications submitted in the country. Such backlogs hinder most the schedule of hearing and deciding on refugee claims. Sometimes, this process will take **18 to 24 months** or more.
External shocks such as political crises, global surges in migration, or other unpredicted events could affect the processing time on refugee claims.
Asylum process is usually long, tedious, and may be lined with probable queues and very exacting demands. This is where CITRN comes in. With extensive experience in Canadian immigration law and refugee claims, CITRN can guide you through every stage of the process. Here's how we can help:
Consultation and Case Evaluation by Experts
First things first, we ensure a comprehensive consultation and case assessment takes place. We will assess your unique situation, your potential eligibility for refugee protection, and guide you on the best path forward. Our consultants will be able to explain to you the approximate timeline based on your specific case.
Professional Documentation Support
Getting the proper documentation, which is absolutely accurate, is what saves one from delays. CITRN will help you prepare the proofs to make your case under it. It can include personal statements, medical reports, and many more proofs sought by the law. Thus, there will be fewer chances of delays if the paper works are complete and accurate.
Representation and Advocacy at Hearings
Expert professionals will represent you during your Refugee Protection Division hearings. We shall ensure your case is properly represented and speak on your behalf to ensure you amass all the successes possible.
Appeals and Judicial Reviews
If the claim is denied, CITRN can assist you in appealing the decision and to apply for judicial review. We will examine denial reasons and push for the maximum evidence and arguments in your favor.
Ongoing Counseling Throughout the Process
CITRN gives you ongoing guidance and updates of the asylum process throughout. We tell you of any newness that may impact your case and assure of your status concerning claim procedures. We shall keep you posted on changes in immigration law that may affect your asylum process.
Explore refugee sponsorship programs and begin your journey to a new life.
Contact us today for support and guidance.