Guide 0174 – Application Guide for the Inland Refugee Claim Process via the IRCC Portal

We’ve made changes to the Canadian asylum system Nov 3, 2026

If you already submitted a claim, we’ll process it as usual.

If you started a claim in the IRCC Portal before November 3 but didn’t submit it:

you’ll need to answer new questions and review old ones
your personal information has been saved

Learn more about the updates to our asylum system.

Overview
Before you apply
Part 1: Start your refugee claim with IRCC
Part 2: If your claim is eligible to be referred to the Immigration Refugee Board
After you apply online
Need help?

This is not a legal document. The explanations and definitions are not legal definitions. In case of a discrepancy between the language in this document and the relevant legislation or regulations, the legal text in the legislation and regulations prevails.

For legal information, refer to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations or the Citizenship Act, Citizenship Regulations and Citizenship Regulations No. 2, as applicable.

Overview

Application guide

The application guide is a tool that provides assistance with the information you must provide in the portal.

Read the application guide thoroughly and then initiate the refugee claim process by completing your refugee claim application in the portal.

Symbols used in this guide

This guide uses the following symbols to indicate information of particular importance.

What you must do to have your application processed.

Important information that you need to be aware of in order to avoid delays or other problems.

Where to get more information.

Note: Tips that will assist you with this application.

Before you apply

Before you apply, check if you are eligible to have a claim for refugee protection referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board.

Representatives

If someone is helping you initiate the refugee claim process, they are a representative. To be someone’s representative, they must provide the right forms to show they have your permission to handle your application (and later, your claim) for you. A representative can be paid or unpaid. When you appoint a representative, you are also authorizing Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to share personal information about you and your application with this person.

Note: The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act makes it an offence for any person not authorized under the Act to knowingly, directly or indirectly, represent or advise a person for consideration – or offer to do so – in connection with a proceeding or application under that Act. Consideration includes money, or any other form of compensation or reward.

An authorized representative is someone who has a license to practice and give advice. A person may be authorized to represent immigrants or provide immigration advice if they meet one of the following requirements:

Citizenship or immigration consultants must be a member of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.
Lawyers or notaries must be a member of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society, or the Chambre des notaires du Québec.
Paralegals (Ontario only) must be members of the Law Society of Upper Canada.

Learn about representatives

If your representative is helping you, but you’ll submit your own application

You must

create your own account
complete the questionnaire
upload all documents, including a signed Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476)
electronically sign and submit your own application
monitor your IRCC Portal for important updates and correspondence we will send you; a notification will be sent to the email address you used to create the account, but the message will only be viewable on the IRCC Portal.

Your representative can

provide advice
help you prepare documents
help you use the portal (in person, by phone or online using screen-sharing technology)

In this case, you must type your name and click the button to submit.

If your representative is submitting your application for you

If an authorized representative submits your application for you, they will need to get an IRCC portal account for representatives. They should use these instructions to create an IRCC portal account for representatives.

All updates and correspondence will be sent to your representative if they submit your application for you. Your representative must:

be authorized to use the IRCC portal account for representatives
connect to or create their own IRCC Portal account
complete the questionnaire
upload all documents, including a signed Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476)
electronically sign (using their name) and submit your application
monitor their IRCC portal account for representatives for important updates and correspondence we will them

In this case, your representative must type in their name (not yours) and click the button to submit the application on your behalf.

Changing your representative

If you change your representative before or after submitting your refugee claim application online, there are some important things to note:

Online applications cannot be "transferred" from one person's account to another
Only one version submitted to IRCC becomes the official application
If a paid representative is removed from our system (GCMS), online messages and status updates in the portal will no longer be available to that representative

If you have questions about your specific situation, use our web form.

Claim made at a port of entry

You can appoint a new representative or choose to continue on your own at any time. However, your in-progress online application cannot be transferred to a new account. You (or your new representative) must restart the online process by:

Searching for your existing claim; and,
Linking it to your own portal account.

The first version submitted to IRCC becomes the official submission. It is your responsibility to ensure that only the intended person (you or your chosen representative) completes and submits the application.

If you change or remove your representative after submitting your application, the standard process for cancelling a paid representative remains the same. However, online messages and communications in the portal will no longer be available to the representative.

Claim made inland

If you submitted Part 1 and then appoint a representative for Part 2, your new representative cannot link your claim to their online account. You must either complete Part 2 in your own portal account or request an exemption to submit it on paper.

If your paid representative submitted Part 1 and you subsequently change representatives or choose to continue on your own, the standard process for cancelling a paid representative remains the same. However, because online ownership cannot be transferred, you must complete Part 2 using the paper process.

If you change or remove your representative after submitting Part 2, the standard process for cancelling a paid representative remains the same. However, online messages and communications in the portal will no longer be available to the representative.

Complete the application

Important information: It is a serious offence to give false or misleading information. The information you provide on your application may be subject to verification.

Be complete and accurate

Important information Important: Questions followed by "(required)" are mandatory and must be answered.

Complete all sections. If a section does not apply to you, select "Unknown" where available or write "Not Applicable".

Answering all the questions to the best of your ability will assist us in the processing of your application and avoid delays.

If you are not certain of exact dates, you can put your best guess or estimate.
You can upload a letter under the "Documents to Support Your Claim" section of the portal. In the letter, let us know which answers you had to guess, including any dates that you were not sure about.
Clarification can also be provided at the biometrics and eligibility interview appointment.
We recommend that all explanations be recorded in one document.

Helpful information

When creating an IRCC Portal account, the same email address can only be used once.
- You'll receive an invitation code via email which you will need to sign up
If you are applying as part of a family group, the same email address must be used throughout the entire application process.
If the head of the family/principal applicant is found ineligible, the next eligible family member may become the account holder; however, the email address associated with the application cannot be changed. For this reason, all potential account holders should ensure they will continue to have access to that email account, as important updates and correspondence will be sent to that address throughout the process.
We recommend you bookmark the IRCC Portal page.
Internet Explorer (IE) is not a web browser supported by the portal. Please use a compatible browser, such as:
- Google Chrome
- Apple Safari
- Microsoft Edge
- Mozilla Firefox
When you log out and want to log back in, you will be sent a verification code via email each time. You need this verification code to log in.
Use the portal's navigation tools to access a previous section of your claim – do not use your browser's back arrows as this may cause issues.
Portal users are automatically logged out after 20 minutes of idle time.
If you log out then log back in, you can select "Continue" under the Action column beside your refugee claim record on the dashboard. You should then be taken to where you left off.
You will have 90 days (from when you start in the portal) to submit Part 1 of your application. After 90 days, the system will delete your information, and you will have to start your application again. You will receive reminder emails if you have an application in progress that has not been submitted.
An un-submitted claim can be deleted by clicking "Delete" under the Action column beside your refugee claim record on the dashboard.

Application process

Making a refugee claim in Canada is a two-part process:

Part 1: Submit your information and documents to begin the claim process. By completing Part 1, you are only initiating the refugee claim process by submitting documentation and information with a view to making a refugee claim. IRCC will schedule you for an in-person appointment, and your claim will be officially made during that appointment.
Part 2: You will complete this step only if your claim is determined to be eligible for referral to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). If you are eligible, you will be directed to complete Part 2 within certain timelines. Complete Part 2 of the online application, which includes information about the basis of your claim (previously provided through the Basis of Claim Form).

Timelines

If you are found eligible at your in person appointment, you will be given a Notice of Application Due Date and instructions for completing your claim online.

You have 60 days from the date on your Notice of Application Due Date to complete Part 2 of your claim online.

If you need more time, you may request a one-time extension of 30 days by selecting "Ask for an extension" on the IRCC portal homepage under the "Continue an application you haven't submitted" section.

If you do not complete your claim by the deadline, it will be transmitted to the IRB to determine whether it will be abandoned. If your claim is found to have been abandoned, any future claim you make will be ineligible for referral to the IRB.

Part 1: Start your refugee claim with IRCC

Application questions

The questions below correspond to questions you may be asked in the IRCC Portal. Not all questions will necessarily appear for every applicant. The questions displayed in the portal may change depending on the answers you provide. For example, answering "Yes" to a question may result in additional follow-up questions, while answering "No" may allow you to proceed to the next question.

If you are applying as part of a family group, some questions may apply only to the head of the family and may not be asked of every family member.

Important: All questions must be answered truthfully, accurately, and completely. Provide as much relevant detail as possible and do not leave out information that may be important to your application. Incomplete, inaccurate, or inconsistent information may result in requests for additional information and could cause delays in processing your application.

Use the information and guidance provided below to help you answer the questions that appear in your IRCC Portal application.

Step 1. Complete Part 1 of your application

Questions 1 - 12 require personal information for the representative, not the applicant.

Question 1:

Are you applying on behalf of someone else? (required)

If you’re preparing an application for someone else, you are a representative. To be someone’s representative, you must provide the right forms to show you have their permission to handle their application for them.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, Click “Save and continue”.

The next section will only appear if you answered “Yes” to Question 1. If you answered “No”, the New or Existing Refugee Claim page will display.

Question 2:

Who are you in relation to the person you're helping? (required)

From the drop-down menu, select one of the following options:

Family member
Friend
Other
- If you select “Other”, enter the relationship in the text box (required).

Information about the representative

Question 3:

Surname / last name (required)

Enter your surname/last name.

Question 4:

Given name / first name

Enter your given name. If none, leave this field blank.

Question 5:

Telephone type (required)

This should be the number where we can reach you during the day.

Select one of the following:
- Residential
- Cellular
- Other

Question 6:

Telephone number country or territory (required)

Choose Canada/US if you have a telephone number within the North America Numbering Plan (NANP) and it has international calling code 1.

Select one of the following:
- Canada/US
- Other
  - If you select “Other”, enter the country code (required)

Question 7:

Telephone numbers (required)

Enter your telephone number. Your telephone number should have this format: 5433434456. Don’t include spaces or dashes.

Question 8:

Extension number

Enter the extension number, if applicable

Mailing Address

Question 9:

Country or Territory (required)

You must live at an address in Canada. You will not be able to choose another country or territory.

Question 10:

Address lookup (required)

Enter the following:

Start typing your address, if your address does not appear, choose “Enter address manually” and enter your address details in the fields below.
- Street number (required)
- Street name (required)
- Apartment or unit number *if applicable*
- PO Box *if applicable*
- City or town (required)
- Province (required)
- Postal code, in the following format: X9X9X9
  - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Question 11:

Email address (required)

Enter your email address in the following format: name@example.com

Question 12:

Confirm your email address (required)

Re-enter the email address. You cannot copy and paste your email into this field, you must type it again.

Click “Save and continue”.

The remaining questions in this form are for the applicant to answer. If you are representing the applicant, answer all remaining questions using your client’s information. For example, if we ask for ‘Your first name,’ enter your client’s first name, not your own.

New or Existing Refugee Claim

Question 13:

Did you already make a claim to an officer when you entered Canada (for example: land border, airport)? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "Yes", this guide is not the correct guide for you, refer to the CBSA Refugee Claims Application Guide.
If you choose "No", click "Save and continue". A new application will be created for you.

It is very important that you answer this question accurately.

If you have already made a claim at a port of entry and select "no" this will result in a duplicate application being created. This may cause delays in processing and require you to re-enter all information.

Note: This guide is only for those who wish to make their first refugee claim.

You selected: to make a new refugee claim

This is Part 1 of the Refugee Claim Application, which is used to initiate the refugee claim process inland. After completing Part 1, you will not have made a claim. You will be invited to an appointment where you will meet with an IRCC officer to officially make your claim. If your claim is determined to be eligible, you will be directed to complete Part 2.

You have 90 days (after you start the application online) to submit Part 1 in accordance to the system's data retention policy. If you do not submit within that time period, you will need to create a new application.

Documents you need to submit with Part 1 of the application

Have the following documents ready as you fill the application form.

Your passport or other travel document (if in your possession).
Other supporting documents, depending on how you answer the questions in the application.

Information you need to enter

Answer the questions truthfully and with as much detail as possible.

Address history
Education and work history
Travel history
Criminality and security
Family information
Guardian information (if applicable)

Important reminder

Answer the questions within the portal.
The information you provide in this application may be used by IRCC and CBSA in reviewing and processing your claim. It will also be used throughout the refugee claim process, including at your hearing before the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
You may need to give us more information depending on how you answer the questions in the application.
Review your answers. You can change them if you need to before submittal.
Use this application guide for detailed instructions.

Submit your application

Once you answer all the questions and upload your supporting documents, you can submit Part 1 of your application.
If you're completing applications for a group, you will only be able to submit them once you answer all questions and upload all documents for each group member.

If you need to leave before you finish your claim, click the Save and continue button to save your information. You can come back and finish your application later.

Groups

Question 14:

Do you want to apply for more than one person at the same time? (required)

Do you want to submit an application for only yourself or with others? For example are you claiming with your spouse and children who are with you in Canada?

Once you answer this question, you won’t see it again. Make sure you answer correctly. If you are applying as a family, select “Yes”. If you need to add or remove family members from your application, you will need to delete your application and start again.

If you choose “Yes”, continue through the Groups section.
If you choose “No”, continue to the Personal Information section.

Step 1: Create your Family Group

Decide who will be your head of family.
- 1 person must be your head of family
- You must add this person to the group first.
- Your head of family can be
  - a parent, grandparent or guardian who is 18 years of age or older (for example, a father claiming refugee protection with his 2 children)
  - an unaccompanied minor (someone who is under the age of 18 and who doesn’t have an adult with them), if the other people in the group are also under the age of 18 (for example, a 17-year-old claiming refugee protection with their younger brother or sister)
- Your head of family cannot be
  - a minor (someone who is under the age of 18) who has a relationship status of married or common law
Click “Add head of family” to add your head of family to your group.

You will fill in some personal information (like their name) about this person.

You won’t be able to delete the head of family’s profile from your group once you add it.
- Surname/last name (required)
  - Write your full surname/last name as it appears on your passport, travel, or identity document. Do not use initials.
- Given name/first name
  - Write all of your given names/first names (first, second or more) in full as they appear on your passport, travel or identity document. Do not use initials. If none, leave this field blank.
Click “Save”.
Click “Add family member” to add each person who wishes to make a claim with you to your group. You will fill in some basic information (like their name and relationship) about each person you add.

Note: You can only add one spouse or common-law partner. You can only select a spouse or common-law partner if the head of family is 18 years old or older.
- Choose relationship to the head of family (required)
  - From the drop-down menu, select one of the following:
    - Spouse
    - Common-law partner
    - Child
    - Son
    - Daughter
    - Step-son
    - Step-daughter
    - Grandchild
    - Parent
    - Sibling
- Surname/last name (required)
  - Write their full surname/last name as it appears on their passport, travel, or identity document. Do not use initials.
- Given name/first name
  - Write all of their given names/first names (first, second or more) in full as they appear on their passport, travel or identity document. Do not use initials. If none, leave this field blank.

Click “Save”. Repeat the above steps for each family member.

Lock your group (once you have added everyone who is making a claim with you) by clicking "I have added all members".
- Check the box to confirm you added all family members making a refugee claim with you.
- Once you lock your group, you won't be able to add anyone to, or delete anyone from the group. You also won't be able to edit the relationship or the names of the family members in the group.

Click “Save”.

Step 2: Complete the application for each family member

Click "Continue" and complete the claim for your head of family first. You can only start their claim once you lock your group.
Click "Continue" and complete the claim for all other members of your group. You can only start these claims after you complete the claim for your head of family.
Once you have completed the claims of every member in your group, click the Save and continue button to move to the next step.

Personal Information

In this section, you may see information that you provided if you created a family group. You cannot edit some information because it’s carried over from when it was entered before.

Question 15:

Surname/last name (required)

As it appears on your passport, travel, or identity document. Or, as entered in the head of family application; can be edited in the head of family application.

Question 16:

Given name/first name

As it appears on your passport, travel, or identity document. Or, as entered in the head of family application; can be edited in the head of family application. Do not use initials.

Question 17:

Date of birth (required)

As it appears on your passport, travel, or identity document. Or, as entered in the head of family application; can be edited in the head of family application.

Question 18:

Sex that is on your passport or travel document (required)

You can request a change of sex identifier at a later time

From the list, select one of the following:

Male
Female
X

Question 19:

If you do not identify with the sex on your passport, you may self-identify your sex (optional):

If the sex you identify with is not the same as what is in your passport, you can indicate your sex in the free text space.

Question 20:

Gender (required)

This is your social identity, such as man, woman, non-binary, or two-spirit. You can enter your gender by choosing the X category. You can request a change of gender or sex identifier at a later time.

Select the option that best reflects your gender identity. If you identify as neither exclusively male nor female, you may select “X”.

Male
Female
X
- If you would like to provide gender details, enter them in the text box below (optional)

Question 21:

Would you like to share your pronouns? (required)

Yes
No
- Please indicate your pronouns in the free text option if you selected "Yes" for example she/her; he/him; they/them

Question 22:

Height (required)

Indicate whether you are providing your height in centimeters, or in feet and inches.

Question 23:

Height (in centimeters / in feet and inches) (required)

Based on what you selected for your units of measurements in question 22, enter your exact height.

Question 24:

Eye colour (required)

Select your eye colour from the drop-down menu.

Question 25:

Unique client identifier (UCI), if known (optional)

If you were previously issued or refused a temporary resident visa, study permit, work permit, or other document from IRCC, you have a UCI.

Click “Save and continue”.

Other Identities

Question 26:

Do you currently use or have you used any other names? (required)

This could be a different name at birth, a maiden name, a nickname or an alias (name other than your legal name used in the past e.g. in a document used to come to Canada or any other country).

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add", and enter the following:

What type of name is it? (required): from the list, select one of the following:
- Nickname/alias
- Name before marriage/maiden name
- Previous name
- Surname or last name (required)
- Given name or first name
- This name is currently used
Select the check box to confirm if this is currently the name that you use.

Question 27:

Have you used another date of birth before? (required)

Choose “Yes” if you have another date of birth that is different from the one listed on your passport, travel, or identity document. For example, if you have used or been issued documents with different dates of birth.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, click “Save and continue”.
If you choose “Yes”, enter the following:
- Other date of birth (required)
- This date of birth is connected to which name? (required): select all that apply

Click “Save and continue”.

Contact and residential information

Current Home Address

Question 28:

Enter the address where you live in Canada.

Country or Territory (required)

You must live at an address in Canada. You won't be able to choose another country or territory.

Address lookup

Start typing your address, if your address does not appear, choose "Enter address manually" and enter your address details in the fields below.

Street number (required)
Street name (required)
Apartment or unit number
PO Box
City or town (required)
Province or territory (required)
Postal code, in the following format: X9X9X9
- You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.
Date you started living at this address (required)

Question 29:

Is your mailing address the same as your residential address?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, continue to the Past Home Address section.
If you choose “No”, enter the information for your mailing address using “Address lookup” or by choosing “Enter address manually”.

Click “Save and continue”.

Previous Address History

Question 30:

Past Home Address (required)

This section will only appear for persons 18 years of age or older.

You need to list all the other addresses you've lived at in the past 10 years or since the age of 18 to the best of your ability. If you are under 28 years of age, list all the addresses where you have lived since you turned 18. If you are 28 years of age or older, list all the addresses where you have lived during the past 10 years.

Start with the last address you lived at. Do not include your current home address in Canada.

There must be no missing time periods or gaps. When one address ends, you must enter the same day as the starting date for the next address. For example, if you moved in 2018/03, the start date of the next address must also be 2018/03.

Write every place you lived, even if you were hiding, fleeing harm, or it was not your permanent address.

If you stayed at more than one address during any given month, provide the address where you lived or resided for the longest period in that month.

If you do not know the exact dates you lived at an address, provide your best estimate. It is important to ensure that there are no gaps in your address history, even when the exact dates are unknown.

You can include any other information about your previous addresses by uploading a document on the document upload page.

Click “Add” and enter the following information:

Country or territory (required)
Street address (required)
City or town (required)
Postal code
- You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.
Other address details
- Enter the province, territory, state or district, if needed.
Date you started living at this address (required)
- Enter the date you moved into this address. This should be the same as the move-out date from your previous address.
Date you stopped living at this address (required)
- Enter the date you moved out of this address. This must match the move-in date for your next address (no gaps between addresses).
Status in this country or territory (required), select one from the drop-down menu:
- Citizen
- Foreign National
- Permanent Resident
- Protected Person
- Refugee Claimant
- Student
- Visitor
- Worker
If you answered "Student", "Visitor", or "Worker", enter the date you started having this status in this country or territory (required)
Enter the date you stopped having this status in this country or territory (required). If the validity date of your status document extends beyond today's date, enter today's date as the date you stopped having this status.

Click "Save" and repeat the above steps for each address you lived at for the past 10 years, or since the age of 18. Please follow the same rules as above.

Contact Information

Question 31:

Email address (required)

Your email address should have this format: name@example.com.

Question 32:

Confirm your email address (required)

Enter your email address again. You cannot copy and paste your email into this field, you must type it again.

Question 33:

Do you consent to communicating with the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) by email instead of in writing (for example, by mail)?

This may be used for any communication with the IRB. Email is not always secure. Be careful when you share personal information. Learn how to stay safe online with the Government of Canada's "Cyber Safe" recommendations.

Select "Yes" or "No". (required)
- If you select "Yes", upon referral the IRB may send correspondence to the email address you provide.
- If you select "No", the IRB may continue to communicate with you by mail.

Question 34:

Telephone numbers (required)

Click “Add” and enter the details:

Telephone type (required). This should be the number where we can reach you during the day. Select one of the following:
- Residential
- Cellular
- Other
Telephone number country or territory (required). Choose Canada/US if you have a telephone number within the North America Numbering Plan (NANP) and it has international calling code 1. Select one of the following:
- Canada/USA
- Other
If you select "Other", enter the country code (required).
Telephone numbers (required)
- Your telephone number should have this format: 5433434456. Don't include spaces or dashes.
Extension number (optional)

Click “Save”. Repeat the above steps for all telephone numbers.

Click “Save and continue” once it’s complete.

Language

Question 35:

What is your native or preferred language? (required)

Select the language you first learned and still understand from the drop-down list.

Question 36:

What language do you want us to use to communicate with you? (required)

From the options, select “English” or “French”. Any documents or correspondence given to you will be in this language.

Question 37:

What language do you want us to use during your interview? (required)

Select a language from the drop-down menu. If you do not select English or French, an interpreter who speaks this language may be present at the interview.

Question 38:

Where would you like your interview to take place? (required)

This interview will be with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This is not a hearing with the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.

Click “Save and continue”.

Nationality and Identity

In this section, you may see information that you provided in a previous section. You cannot edit some information because it’s carried over from when it was entered before.

Question 39:

Country or territory where you were born (required)

Select one from the drop-down menu.

Question 40:

City or town where you were born (required)

Indicate in the free text box the city or town where you were born.

Question 41:

What is your country of persecution?

This is the country you are claiming against. You can choose more than one country or territory where you’re a citizen or permanent resident. Select from the drop-down menu.

Citizenship Information

Question 42:

Country or territory of citizenship (required)

Click on “Add” and enter the details:

Country or territory of citizenship (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- If you don’t have citizenship anywhere, choose “Stateless”.
How did you become a citizen? (required): select one from the drop-down menu:
- By birth
- By naturalization (process by which a foreign citizen becomes a citizen of a new country)
- By descent (passed down from parent to child)
If you answered “by naturalization”, enter the date you became a citizen of this country or territory (required)
Present status in the country or territory

Click “Save”.

Question 43:

Are there additional countries or territories of which you are or have held permanent resident status?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you select "Yes"
- Indicate the country or territory of permanent residency (required): select from the drop-down menu (can select multiple).

Click “Save”.

National Identity Documents

Question 44:

Do you have a valid national identity document? (required)

A national identity document is an identity card, commonly with a photo, issued by a country with official authority. Not all countries issue a national identity document. If you have one, enter the document details.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, click “Save and continue”.
If you choose “Yes”, click “Add” and enter the details:
- Country or territory that issued the document (required)
- National identity document number (required)
- Date of issue
- Date of expiry
- Where is the original copy of this document? (required). From the list, select one of the following:
  - You have it
  - Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has it
  - It's somewhere else (i.e., it's lost, left back home, missing or stolen, etc.)
- What happened to your document? Provide details in the text box if you do not have the document with you (required)

Click “Save and continue”.

Travel Documents

Question 45:

Have you ever had a passport? (required)

We need to know about all the passports you've had that are currently in your possession or for which you have the passport number and expiry date, even if you don't have them with you or they have already expired. This will help us confirm your identity.

Note: Only include passports that are less than 20 years old. For example, if you’re submitting your application in 2026, you may only include passports issued in 2006 or later.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, continue to the next question.
If you choose “Yes”, click on “Add”, and enter the following:
- What kind of passport is it? (required). From the list, select one of the following:
  - Regular (issued for casual travel, such as vacations and business trips)
  - Diplomatic (issued to diplomats and typically grants certain privileges and immunities)
  - Official (issued to government employees and does not typically grant special privileges)
  - Service (official government service, not diplomatic)
- Select the country code that matches the one on your passport (required)
  - Find this code on your passport information page – see the field named “Code”, “Issuing country”, “Authority”, or, “Country Code”
- Place where your travel document was issued (optional)
- What’s the nationality on your passport? (required)
  - See “Nationality” on your passport information page
- What’s your passport number? (required)
  - See “Document number” on your passport information page.
- Issue date of your passport (required)
  - You can find this information on the page in your passport that shows your photo and date of birth.
- Expiry date of your passport (required)
  - You can find this information on the page in your passport that shows your photo and date of birth
- Where is the original copy of this passport? (required). From the list, select one of the following:
  - You have it
  - Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has it
  - It’s somewhere else (i.e., it’s lost, left back home, missing or stolen, etc.)
- What happened to your passport? Provide details in the text box if you do not have the document with you (required)

Click “Save”.

Repeat the above steps to enter each passport you’ve had.

Question 46:

Have you ever had another type of travel document? (required)

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "No", click "Save and continue".
If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details:
- What kind of travel document is it? (required). From the list, select one of the following:
  - Certificate of identity
  - Refugee Travel Document
  - Red Cross Travel Document
  - Single Journey Travel Document
    - If you select Single Journey Travel Document, enter the issue date of your travel document (required)
  - Seaman's Book
  - United Nations Laissez-Passer
  - Organization of American States (OAS) Travel Document
  - Other travel document
    - What kind of other travel document? (required): Enter the details about this document.
- Which country or organization issued your travel document? (required)
- Place where your travel document was issued (optional)
- What's your travel document number? (required)
- Issue date of your travel document (required)
- Expiry date of your travel document (required)
- Where is the original copy of this document? (required). From the list, select one of the following:
  - You have it
  - Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has it
  - It's somewhere else (i.e., it's lost, left back home, missing or stolen, etc.)
- What happened to your document? Provide details in the text box if you do not have the document with you (required)

Click "Save".

Repeat the above steps to enter each travel document you’ve had.

Click “Save and continue” when complete.

Family Information – Marital Status

This section will only appear for persons 18 years of age or older.

In this section, you may see information that you provided in a previous section. You cannot edit some information unless you go back to the screen where you entered it.

Family member definitions

Your family members include your spouse or common-law partner, your dependent children and any of their dependent children.

Spouse

Refers to either of the two persons (any gender) in a marriage legally recognized in the country in which it took place, as well as in Canada.

Important: Proxy, telephone, fax, internet and similar forms of marriage where one or both parties were not physically present are not considered as valid spousal relationships under the Regulations nor are polygamous marriages. For more information, consult our policy on the legality of a marriage.

Common-law partner

Refers to a person who is living in a conjugal relationship with another person (any gender), and has done so continuously for a period of at least one year. A conjugal relationship exists when there is a significant degree of commitment between two people.

This can be shown with evidence that the couple share the same home, support each other financially and emotionally, have children together, or present themselves in public as a couple.

Common-law partners who have been in a conjugal relationship for at least one year, but are unable to live together or appear in public together because of legal restrictions in their home country or who have been separated for reasons beyond their control (for example, civil war or armed conflict) may still qualify and should be included on the application.

Dependent children

The age of your children is ‘locked in’ when you submit your refugee application. This is called the “lock-in date.” This means that if you are later able to apply for permanent residence in Canada as a protected person, you may be able to include them in your application if they meet the dependent children requirements below on the lock-in date:

They’re under 22 years old, and
They don’t have a spouse or common-law partner

Children 22 years old or older qualify as dependents if they meet both of these requirements:

They have depended on their parents for financial support since before the age of 22, and
They are unable to financially support themselves because of a mental or physical condition

With the exception of age, dependents will have to continue to meet these requirements until processing of the application for permanent residence is complete.

Dependent child of a dependent child

Refers to children of dependent children of the applicant and those of the spouse or common-law partner.

Note: For applicants who started an immigration process before August 1, 2014, consult the page Definition of Dependent Children Before August 1st, 2014.

Question 47:

What is your current marital status? (required)

From the list, select one of the following:

Annulled marriage
Common-law
Divorced
Married
Separated
Single
Widowed

Question 48:

Date marriage or common-law relationship started (required)

Enter the date of marriage or start of common-law relationship.

Current Spouse or common-law partner

Question 49:

Surname/last name (required)

Write their full surname/last name as they appear on their passport, travel, or identity document.

Question 50:

Given name/first name (optional)

Write their given name. If none, leave this field blank.

Question 51:

Date of birth (required)

Enter their date of birth exactly as it appears on their passport, travel, or identity document. If you do not know their complete date of birth, select “unknown” for the month or day.

Question 52:

Country or territory of birth (required)

Select the country or territory of birth from the drop-down menu, as shown in their passport or travel document.

Question 53:

Citizenship (required)

Select the country or territory of citizenship from the drop-down menu, as shown in their passport or travel document.

Question 54:

Does your spouse or partner live with you? (required)

This question will only appear if you selected “Common-law” or “Married”.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, enter the details of their current address:
- Country or territory (required)
- Street address (required)
- City or town (required)
- Other address details (optional)
- Postal code
  - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Question 55:

Date they started living at this address (required)

This question will only display if you are applying in a family group and answered “Yes” to question 56.

Enter the date they started living at this address.

Previous marriages or common-law partnerships

Question 56:

Have you been married or in a common-law relationship before? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, click “Save and continue”.
If you choose “Yes”, click “Add” and enter the details:
- Relation type (required): from the list, select one of the following:
  - Common-law
  - Married
- Surname/last name (required)
- Given name/first name (optional)
- Date of birth (required)
  - If you do not know their complete date of birth, select “unknown” for the year, month, or day.
- Date the marriage or common-law relationship started (required)
- Date the marriage or common-law relationship ended (required)

Click “Save”. Repeat the above steps to add each previous marriage and common-law relationship.

Click “Save and continue”.

Family Information – Children not included in refugee claim

If you are applying in a family group, this section will only appear for the head of family, if they are 18 years of age or older. You must list all children of the head of family and spouse, who are not already included in your group claim.

Question 57:

Do you have any children (biological, adopted or step-children) who are not already included in this claim? (required)

This means the children you are not including in your group application. You must tell us about all your children, regardless of their age or where they live (even if you don’t know where they are). If you don’t include them, they may not be able to immigrate to Canada later on.

Note: You can only declare children that you legally adopted.

If you choose “No”, select that you understand that you are not declaring any biological, adopted children, or step-children, and click “Save and continue”.
If you choose “Yes”, click on “Add” and enter the details:
- Surname/last name (required)
- Given name/first name (optional)
- Date of birth (required)
  - If you do not know their complete date of birth, select “unknown” for the year.
- Relationship (required): select one from the drop-down menu
  - Daughter
  - Son
  - Step-daughter
  - Step-son
- Country or territory of birth (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- Citizenship (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- Does this child live with you? (required)
  
  Select “Yes” or “No”
  - If you select “No”, enter their present address information:
    - Country or territory (required)
    - Street address (required)
    - City or town (required)
    - Other address details (optional)
    - Postal code
      - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Click “Save”. Repeat the above steps to add each child.

Click “Save and continue”.

Family Information - Parents

Question 58:

Tell us about your parents (required)

You must enter details for 2 parents. If you were adopted, include the details about your legal parents. If you don’t have the required information for one or both of your parents, enter “unknown” in the field.

We recognize that families have different structures. Current system requirements mandate that a mother and a father be recorded for each individual.

To complete your application, enter your parents' information using the available fields.

If the available parent fields do not accurately reflect your family structure, please provide additional information explaining how you used the fields to complete your application. This information will help ensure that your application accurately reflects your family structure.

You can upload this information as an 'Additional document' on the 'Documents to support your claim' page at the end of this application.

Only enter your parent's date of birth if you know the complete and exact date.
If you don't know it, enter "unknown" for the year, day, and month.

Click on "Add" and enter the details:

Surname/last name (required)
Given name/first name (optional)
Date of birth (required)
- If you do not know their complete date of birth, select "unknown" for the year, month, and day.
If your parent or legal guardian is deceased, click the check box.
- If you click the check box, enter the date of death.
- Only enter your parent's date of death if you know the complete and exact date.
- If you don't know it, enter "unknown" for the year, day and month.
Relationship (required)
Country or territory of birth (required)
Citizenship (required)
- Select all that apply
Does this parent live with you? (required)
- If you select "Yes", click "Save".
- If you select "No", enter their address information:
  - Country or territory (required)
  - Street address (required)
  - City or town (required)
  - Other address details (optional)
  - Postal code
    - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Click "Save".

Repeat the above steps for the second parent or legal guardian.

Click “Save and continue” when complete.

Family Information - Siblings

You must enter details for your siblings, including half-siblings. If you don’t have the required information for a sibling, enter “unknown” in the field.

Question 59:

Do you have any siblings? (required)

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "No", click "Save and continue".
If you choose "Yes", add the required details in the table provided.

Click on "Add" and enter the details:

Surname/last name (required)
Given name/first name (optional)
Date of birth (required)
- If you do not know their complete date of birth, select "unknown" for the year.
If your sibling is deceased, click the check box
- If you click the check box, enter the date of death.
- Only enter your sibling's date of death if you know the complete and exact date.
- If you don't know it, enter "unknown" for the day and month.
Relationship (required)
Country or territory of birth (required)
Citizenship (required)
- Select all that apply
Does this sibling live with you? (required)
- If you select "Yes", click "Save".
- If you select "No", enter their address information:
  - Country or territory (required)
  - Street address (required)
  - City or town (required)
  - Other address details (optional)
  - Postal code
    - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Click "Save".

Repeat the above steps for all siblings you have.

Click “Save and continue” when complete.

Family Information - Grandparents

Question 60:

Tell us about your grandparents (required)

You must enter details for 4 grandparents. If you were adopted, include the details about your legal grandparents. If you don’t have the required information for a grandparent, enter “unknown” in the field.

Click “Add” to input the required information in the “Add grandparent” table:

Surname/last name (required)
Given name/first name (optional)
Date of birth (required)
- If you do not know their complete date of birth, select "unknown" for the fields you don't know (year, month or day).
If your grandparent is deceased, click the check box.
- If you click the check box, enter the date of death.
- Only enter your grandparent's date of death if you know the complete and exact date.
- If you don't know it, enter "unknown" for day or month.
Relationship (required)
- Indicate whether the grandparent is a maternal grandmother / grandfather or paternal grandmother or grandfather
Country or territory of birth (required)
Citizenship (required)
- Select all that apply
Does this grandparent live with you? (required)
- If you select "Yes", click "Save".
- If you select "No", enter their address information:
  - Country or territory (required)
  - Street address (required)
  - City or town (required)
  - Other address details
  - Postal code
    - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Click "Save".

Repeat the above steps for all 4 of your grandparents.

Click "Save and continue" when complete.

Guardian information

You will only see this section if you are making a claim for just yourself or if you are the head of family.

Question 61:

Is a guardian needed because you are unable to understand the proceedings or you are under the age of 18? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, click “Save and continue”.
If you choose “Yes”, continue to the next question.

Question 62:

Guardian’s relationship to you (required)

Select the type of guardian from the list:

Family
Friend of family
Provincial child welfare authority
Non-governmental organization for child services
Other organization

Question 63:

Choose the organization that your guardian represents (required)

This question will only be displayed if you selected “Provincial child welfare authority”, or “Non-governmental organization for child services”.

Select the name of the organization that your guardian represents from the drop-down menu.

Question 64:

Surname or last name (required)

Enter your guardian’s surname/last name.

Question 65:

Given name or first name (optional)

Enter your guardian’s given name/first name. If none, leave this field blank.

Guardian’s mailing address

Question 66:

Country or territory (required)

Your guardian must live at an address in Canada. You won’t be able to choose another country or territory.

Question 67:

Address lookup (required)

Start typing their street number and street name in “Address lookup” to find their address in the list. If you don’t see their address, select “Enter address manually” to enter their address details (required).
- Street number (required)
- Street name (required)
- Apartment or unit number (optional)
- PO Box (optional)
- City or town (required)
- Province or territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- Postal code, in the following format: X9X9X9
  - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Click “Save and continue”.

Additional Family Details

You must enter details for any additional family members you have in Canada. This could be uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, or nephews. Do not list family members who are part of your refugee claim application or who you provided details on earlier in the application. You only need to include those known to you or who you are in contact with.

Question 68:

Do you have any family members in Canada? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "No", click "Save and continue".
If you choose "Yes", tell us about your family members.
- Surname/last name (required)
- Given name/first name (optional)
  - If you do not know their given name, leave this field blank.
- Date of birth (required)
  - If you do not know their complete date of birth, select "unknown" for the year, month, and day.
- Gender (required): select one of the following
  - X
  - Female
  - Male
- Relationship (required)
- Country or territory of birth (required)
- Citizenship (required)
  - Select all that apply
- Do you know their address? (required)
  - If you select "No", click "Save".
  - If you select "Yes", enter their address information:
    - Country or territory (required)
    - Street name (required)
    - Apartment or unit number
    - P.O. Box
    - City or town (required)
    - Other address details
    - Postal code
      - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Click "Save".

Repeat the above steps for all known family members in Canada.

Click "Save and continue" when complete.

Travel to Canada

We may use this information to confirm how you entered Canada. Provide details on how you most recently entered Canada. The questions you need to answer will vary on your responses within this section. Depending on your personal entry details, you may not see all questions listed below.

Question 69:

When did you most recently enter Canada? (required)

Insert the correct date

Question 70:

Where did you cross the border? (required)

Select one of the following:

I entered where border services officers work
I crossed at a place that is not an official port of entry
- This could include a field, across a small river, etc.

Question 71:

How did you arrive in Canada? (required)

An official border crossing
Airport
Marine port

Question 72:

Where did you enter Canada? (required)

Select the option that most accurately describes where you entered. The list of options will vary based on your previous answers.

Question 73:

When you entered Canada, did you show officers a passport? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 74:

Was it your own authentic passport? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 75:

What travel document did you use when you entered Canada? (required)

Select from the following

Fraudulent passport
- This could be a passport that was not issued by an official government body.
Altered passport
- This could be an official passport that was issued by a country, but was somehow modified.
Another person's passport

Question 76:

How did you enter Canada without being examined by an officer? (required)

Select from the following if it applies to you. If none apply, select "Other" and provide additional details in the text box provided:

Hid on a ship or shipping container
Hid inside a passenger vehicle
Hid inside a truck
Hid inside a transport container
Walked or drove through an open area
- This could include a field, forest, shallow waterway, etc.
Arrived by boat or watercraft at an unofficial landing point
Other
- Please specify in the text box provided

Question 77:

What is your ticket number? (required)

(if “airport” above is selected)

Enter the number on the ticket you used to travel to Canada. Enter "unknown" if you don't know it or if you don't have your ticket number. Leave this field blank if you did not use a ticket to travel to Canada (e.g., arrived by land).
If unknown, you must enter as many details as you are able to regarding airline, arrival time, etc.

Route to Canada

Question 78:

How did you travel? (required)

Tell us how you travelled to Canada. Start with your arrival in Canada and work your way back to when you left your country or territory of persecution.

Click on "Add" and enter the following information:

How did you travel (required): from the list, select one of the following:
- Air
- Sea
- Land
Date you left (required)
Country or territory you left (required)
City/town (required)
- If you selected "air", enter the airport you flew out of (required).
Date you arrived (required)
Country or territory you arrived in (required)
- If you select "Canada", enter the Province (required).
City/town (required)
- If you selected "air", enter the airport you landed at (required).

Click "Save".

Repeat these steps for each part of your journey to Canada.

Click “Save and continue”.

Additional Entry Information

Question 79:

Did someone help you come to Canada? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

This includes, but is not limited to, people who purchased your ticket, arranged transportation, or gave you a fraudulent passport, etc.

If you choose "No", click "Save and continue".
If you choose "Yes", provide the requested details in the table.
- Surname/last name (required)
- Given name/first name (optional)
  - If you do not know their given name, leave this field blank.
- Your relationship to this person (required)
- Type of help (required)
  - Tell us how they helped you come to Canada:
    - Travel agent
    - Facilitator
    - Guidance
    - Consultant
    - Other
    - Indicate in the free text box on who helped you and how
- Did you pay this person? (required)
  - If you choose "Yes", write how much you paid them in Canadian dollars (required).
- Do you know their address? (required)
  
  From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.
  - If you choose “No”, click “Save and continue”.
  - If you choose “Yes”, start typing their street number and street name in “Address lookup” to find their address in the list. If you don’t see their address, select “Enter address manually” to enter their address details (required).
    - Country or territory (required)
    - Street number (required)
    - Street name (required)
    - Apartment or unit number (optional)
    - PO Box (optional)
    - City or town (required)
    - Province (required): select one from the drop-down menu
    - Postal code, in the following format: X9X9X9
      - You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.
    - Other address details (optional)

Click “Save”.

Repeat these steps for each person that helped you come to Canada.

Click “Save and continue”.

Travel History

Question 80:

In the past 10 years, since the age of 18, have you travelled to a country or territory other than where you live or where you’re a citizen? (required)

The wording of this question will vary depending on your age.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "No", click "Save and continue".
If you choose "Yes", provide additional details below (required).
- If you travelled to the same country several times in one month:
  - Add only one entry to the table, and;
  - Use the first and last dates of the month as your travel dates.
Date travel started (required)
Date travel ended (required)
Country or territory (required)
Location (required)
Purpose of travel (required)
Status in this country or territory (required)
If you select "Other", enter the status you had in this country or territory (required)

Question 81:

Has Canada or any other country ever refused to issue you a visa or permit, denied you entry to the country, or ordered you to leave?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “No”, click “Save and continue”.
If you choose “Yes”, provide additional details below (required).
- Date
  - Enter the date you were denied a visa permit, refused entry or ordered to leave.
- Country or territory (required)
- Details (required)

Click “Save and continue”.

Work, education, and other activities

You must enter every job or activity from the last 10 years or since the age of 18.

Include all jobs and activities, including periods of study and military, police, or government positions.

Do not leave gaps in your history. When one activity ends, the next activity must start on the same date. It is okay to have overlapping dates, but there must not be any missing time between activities. For example:

2020/01 – 2022/06: Factory worker – Country X
2022/06 – 2024/03: Unemployed – Country X

If you did more than one activity at the same time, list them all. Multiple activities may have the same or overlapping dates, but there must be no missing time between activities.

If you enter a period of unemployment, make sure it accurately reflects your activities. For example, if you were unemployed between January and March and started a job on March 16, enter your unemployment as January to March so your activities remain continuous without creating gaps.

The information provided in the Travel to Canada section has been carried over and cannot be edited. To make changes, go back to the Travel to Canada section.

Question 82:

Give details of all your employment and activities since the age of 18, for the past 10 years (required)

Click “Add” and provide the following details:

Date started (required)
Date ended (required)
- If this is your current activity, you must check the box.
Work or activity (required): select one from the drop-down menu
Job title (required): select one from the drop-down menu
Company or employer name (required)
Responsibilities (required): enter as many details as possible about your responsibilities for this position or activity.
Country/territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu
Address of employer or activity (required): Street address

Click “Save”.

Repeat the above steps for all employment and activities for the past 10 years or since the age of 18.

Click “Save and continue” when complete.

Education History

Question 83:

Are you currently studying or have you ever studied at a post-secondary school? (required)

This could be a university, college or vocational school. You don’t need to have completed a certificate, degree or diploma, all post-secondary school activity should be recorded.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "No", click save and continue to the next section.
If you choose "Yes", click "Add" and provide the details:
- School or institution name (required)
- Date studies started (required)
- Date studies ended (required)
  - Click the check box if you are still studying at this school or institution
- Level of study (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- Field of study (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- Did you get a degree, diploma or certificate after completing this program? (required)
- What is the degree, diploma or certificate you received? (required)
- Country or territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- City or town (required)
- Province or territory (required)
- Street address
  - Enter the address. Include the province, territory, state, district, house number or building number, as needed. If you don't have any address details, write "unknown".

Click “Save”.

Repeat the above steps for each program you studied or are currently studying.

Military History

The questions you need to answer will vary on your responses within this section. Depending on your personal details, you may not see all questions listed below.

Question 84:

Are you from a country where they have mandatory military service? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 85:

Did you serve in any military, militia, paramilitary, defence force or security organization or police force? (required)

This includes any service with any group, including mandatory, optional (you weren’t required to serve), short term, reserve or volunteer units.

If you choose “No”, but indicate in question 84 that you are from a country where they have mandatory military service, you must provide an explanation. Enter the information either in the free text box, or upload a supporting document. Failure to do so may cause a delay in the processing of your application.

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "No", click save and continue to question to the next section.
If you choose "Yes", you must list all ranks you achieved (ex. Private, Captain, General) . You must also list each posting and position separately for each rank to ensure all duties, commanders, and locations are recorded. Do not use abbreviations or acronyms. You may also provide an explanation (optional).
- Click "Add" and enter the details:
- Name of group (required)
  - for example, Canadian Navy
- Your rank (required)
- Date started (required)
  - Click the check box if you currently work for this employer
- Date ended (required)
- Reason your service ended (required): select one from the drop-down menu
  - If you select "Discharged", tell us why you were discharged
  - If you select "Employment terminated", tell us why your employment was terminated
  - If you select "Other", tell us why your service ended (required)
- Was your service mandatory or did you volunteer?
  - From the options, choose either "Mandatory military service (conscript)" or "Volunteer service"

Click "Save". Repeat the above steps to add each military position related to each rank.

Question 86:

During the course of your service, were you involved in any combat support operations? (required)

Involved in any combat support operation could include participating in military support operations by providing operational, administrative, logistical, communications, intelligence, and coordination support to facilitate the execution of assigned military activities and objectives.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details below including the name of the operation, locations, roles of unit, your role, names of cooperating units or battalions that may have participated in any joint operations if applicable, etc.

Click “Save”.

Question 87:

During the course of your service, did you ever participate (including in a support function) in arrests, interrogations, or detentions (including the transport of detainees)? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details of your involvement below.

Click “Save”.

Question 88:

During the course of your service, did you ever encounter periods of civil unrest, such as protests, riots, etc.? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details of your involvement and / or duties below.

Click “Save”.

Question 89:

During the course of your service, did you ever witness or participate in the ill-treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting, or desecration of religious buildings? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details of your involvement and / or duties below.

Click “Save”.

Question 90:

Did you receive any medals or awards? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include the name(s), date(s), and reason(s) below.

Click “Save”.

Question 91:

Did you receive specialized training? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details on type(s), location(s), and date(s) below.

Click “Save”.

Question 92:

Post(s) or unit(s) for each rank

Indicate post(s) or unit(s) for each rank (required)
- Which rank is this post for? (required)
- Type of unit (required)
  - (Artillery, infantry, special ops, etc.)
- Name of unit (required)
- Your title (required)
- Date started (required)
  - Click the checkbox if you currently work at this post or unit.
- Date ended (required)
- For this position, was your service mandatory or voluntary? (required)
  - From the options, choose either "Mandatory military service (conscript)" or "Voluntary service".
- Number of people you supervised (required)
- Country/territory (required)
  - Select one from the drop-down menu.
- City or town (required)
- Base or office (required)
- Name and rank of your immediate supervising officer (required)
- Name and rank of your Unit/Regimental commander (required)
- Name and rank of your operational group/corps commander (required)
- Your duties (required)

To avoid processing delays, please provide clear and detailed descriptions of your daily duties and responsibilities. General or vague descriptions may not provide sufficient information for review. If an exemption for mandatory military service was granted, you will need to upload an exemption document or explanation.

Police History

The questions you need to answer will vary on your responses within this section. Depending on your personal details, you may not see all questions listed below.

Question 93:

Did you serve in any police force or other law enforcement organization? (required)

This includes any optional service (you weren’t required to serve) and reserve or volunteer units.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "Yes", you must list all ranks you achieved. You must also list each posting and position separately for each rank to ensure all duties, commanders, and locations are recorded. Do not use abbreviations or acronyms.
- Click "Add" and enter the details:
- Your rank (required)
- Date started (required)
- Date ended (required)
  - Click the check box if you currently work for this employer
- Reason your service ended (required): select one from the drop-down menu
  - If you select "Discharged", tell us why you were discharged
  - If you select "Employment terminated", tell us why your employment was terminated
  - If you select "Other", tell us why your service ended (required)
- Was your service mandatory or did you volunteer?
  - From the options, choose either "Mandatory service (conscript)" or "Volunteer service"

Click "Save". Repeat the above steps to add each police position.

Question 94:

During the course of your service, were you involved in any combat or combat support operations? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details below including the name of the operation, locations, roles of unit, your role, names of cooperating units or battalions that may have participated in any joint operations if applicable, etc.

Question 95:

During the course of your service, did you ever participate (including in a support function) in arrests, interrogations, or detentions (including the transport of detainees)? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details below of your involvement below.

Question 96:

During the course of your service, did you ever encounter periods of civil unrest, such as protests, riots, etc.? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details below of your involvement below.

Question 97:

During the course of your service, did you ever witness or participate in the ill-treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting, or desecration of religious buildings? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details below of your involvement below.

Question 98:

Did you receive any medals or awards? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include the name(s), date(s), and reason(s) below.

Question 99:

Did you receive specialized training? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, indicate type(s), location(s), and date(s) below.

Question 100:

Post(s) or unit(s) for each rank (required)

You must provide at least one post or unit per police rank you provided on the previous page

Click "add" to add the following details:

Which rank is this post for? (required)
Jurisdiction (required)
- For example, municipal, provincial, federal, military, etc.
Unit name (required)
Your title (required)
Date started (YYYY/MM) (required)
- Click the check box if you currently work at this post or unit.
Date ended (YYYY/MM) (required)
Number of people you supervised (required)
Country or territory (required)
City or town (required)
Name and rank of your immediate supervising officer (required)
Name and rank of your unit or district commanding officer (required)
Name and rank of your operational group/corps commander (required)
Your duties (required)
- You must provide detailed descriptions of your daily duties or responsibilities. General, limited, or vague description of duties may result in processing delays.

Click "Save". Repeat the above steps to add a line for each posting or position.

If you have police service you will need to upload any documents related to your role (if you have them).

Government History

The questions you need to answer will vary on your responses within this section. Depending on your personal details, you may not see all questions listed below.

Question 101:

Have you ever held a government positions? (required)

A government position could be a civil or public servant, judge, mayor, Member of Parliament, hospital administrator, council member, or employee of a security organization, including in junior positions. If unsure, please include the position.

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "No", click save and continue to the next section.
If you choose "Yes", indicate type(s), location(s), and date(s) below.
- click "Add" and enter the details:
- Department, ministry, or employer name (required)
- Date started (required)
  - Click the check box if you currently work for this employer.
- Date ended (required)
- Reason your service ended (required): select one from the drop-down menu
  - If you select "Discharged", tell us why you were discharged
  - If you select "Employment terminated", tell us why your employment was terminated
  - If you select "Other", tell us why your service ended (required)

Question 102:

During the course of your service, were you involved in any combat or combat support operations? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details below including the name of the operation, locations, roles of unit, your role, names of cooperating units or battalions that may have participated in any joint operations if applicable, etc.

Question 103:

During the course of your service did you ever participate (including in a support function) in arrests, interrogations, or detentions (including the transport of detainees)? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details of your involvement below.

Question 104:

During the course of your service, did you ever encounter periods of civil unrest, such as protests, riots, etc.? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details of your involvement below.

Question 105:

During the course of your service, did you ever witness or participate in the ill-treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting, or desecration of religious buildings?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include details of your involvement below.

Question 106:

Did you receive any medals or awards?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include the name(s), date(s), and reason(s) below.

Question 107:

Did you receive specialized training?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, include the name(s), date(s), and reason(s) below.

Question 108:

Post(s) or unit(s) for each rank (required)

You must provide at least one post or unit per government position you provided on the previous page

Click "add" to add the following details:

Which department, ministry, or employer is this post for? (required)
Name of unit (required)
Your title (required)
Your rank (required)
Number of ranks between you and the Minister (required)
Total number of ranks in the department (required)
Date started (required)(YYYY/MM)
- Click the check box if you currently work at this post or unit.
Date ended (YYYY/MM) (required)
Number of people you supervised (required)
Did you have financial authority?
- Select "Yes" or "No".
- If you select "Yes" include additional details regarding the context and monetary amounts (required).
Country or territory (required)
City or town (required)
Name and rank of your immediate supervising officer (required)
Name and title of your department head (required)
Your duties (required)
- You must provide detailed descriptions of your daily duties or responsibilities. General, limited, or vague description of duties may result in processing delays.

Click "Save". Repeat the above steps to add a line for each posting or position.

Criminality

This section will only display for persons 18 years of age and older.

Question 109:

Have you ever been convicted of a crime in any country or territory? (required)

This includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Include as many details as possible about what happened when you were convicted and why. This will help us process your application. You’ll also need to upload any documents related to this conviction.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details. Include as many details as possible about what happened when you were convicted and why. This will help us process your application. You'll also need to upload any documents related to this conviction.
- Nature of crime or offence (required): tell us about the crime you were convicted of. You'll need to upload any documents related to it.
- Country or territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- Location (required)
- Date of conviction (required): if you do not know the exact date, select "unknown" for the month or day.
- Penalty for this crime (required)
  - From the drop-down menu, select all that apply:
    - Jail or prison sentence
    - Probation
    - Fine
    - Other penalty
- Length of jail or prison sentence (required): enter the length of your sentence in months.
  - This question will only display if you selected "Jail or prison sentence" as a penalty for the crime.
- Length of probation (required): enter the length of your probation in months.
  - This question will only display if you selected "Probation" as a penalty for the crime.
- Fine amount (required): enter the total fine amount you paid in Canadian dollars, if applicable.
  - This question will only display if you selected "Fine" as a penalty for the crime.
- What penalty did you get? (required)
  - This question will only display if you selected "Other penalty" as a penalty for the crime.

Click "Save". Repeat for each conviction you've had.

Question 110:

Have you ever been arrested or detained in any country or territory? (required)

List all occasions, even if you consider it was unjustified. This includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Don’t include any crimes you listed above.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details.
- List all occasions, even if you consider the detention unjustified or the detention was not accompanied by formal criminal charges. This includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Don't include any crimes you listed above.
- Include as many details as possible about what happened, when and why. This will help us process your application. You'll also need to upload any documents related to it (if you have them).
  - Reason for arrest or detention (required)
  - Country or territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu
  - Location (required)
  - Date detained (required): if you do not know the exact date, select "unknown" for the month or day.
  - Date released (required): if you do not know the exact date, select "unknown" for the month or day.
    - If you were detained for less than 24 hours, enter the same date in the "from" and "to" fields.

Click "Save". Repeat for each arrest you've had.

Question 111:

Have you ever been charged, sought, or wanted for a crime in any country or territory? (required)

List all occasions, even if you consider it was unjustified. This includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Don’t include any crimes you listed above.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details. Include as many details as possible about what happened, when and why. This will help with processing your application. You'll also need to upload any documents related to it (if you have them).
- Nature of crime or offence (required): tell us about the crime you were charged with or wanted for.
- Country (required): select one from the drop-down menu.
- Location (required)
- Date crime committed (required): if you do not know the exact date, select "unknown" for the month or day.
- Date charged (required): if you do not know the exact date, select "unknown" for the month or day.

Click "Save".

Question 112:

Have you ever committed any criminal offence in any country or territory? (required)

List all occasions, even if you consider it was unjustified. This includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Don’t include any crimes you listed above.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details. Don't include any crimes you were convicted of. Include as many details as possible about what happened, when and why. This will help with processing your application. You'll also need to upload any documents related to it (if you have them).
- Nature of crime or offence (required): tell us about the crime you committed.
- Country (required): select one from the drop-down menu.
- Location (required)
- Date crime committed (required): if you do not know the exact date, select "unknown" for the month or day.

Click "Save." Repeat for each crime committed.

Click “Save and continue” once you are complete.

Admissibility

This section will only display for persons 18 years of age and older.

Question 113:

Have you supported, been a member of, or been associated with any organizations? (required)

Include any political, social, youth, student organizations, trade unions and professional associations.

Include as many details as possible, such as why and when you were a member, supporter, or been associated with any organization. This will help us process your application.

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details. Include as many details as possible, such as when you were a member or supporter and why. This will help us process your application:
- Date you became a member or supporter (required)
- Date you stopped being a member or supporter (required)
- Organization name (required)
- Type of organization (required): include details like the organization's objective or mission.
- Your activities (required): include details like any positions you held and what you did as a member or supporter of this organization.
- Country or territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu.
- City or town (required)

Click "Save". Repeat for each organization you have been a member of, or been associated with.

Question 114:

Have you supported, been a member of, or been associated with any organizations that uses, used, advocated or advocates the use of armed struggle or violence to reach political, religious, or social objectives? (required)

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details. Include as many details as possible, such as when you were a member or supporter and why. This will help us process your application:
- From: Enter the date you became a member or supporter (required)
- To: Enter the date you stopped being a member or supporter (if you are still a member, select today's date) (required)
- Organization name (required)
- Type of organization (required): include details like the organization's objective or mission
- Your activities (required): include details like any positions you held and what you did as a member or supporter of this organization
- Country or territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- City or town (required)

Click "Save".

Question 115:

Have you been a member of an organization that is or was engaged in any activity that is part of a pattern of criminal activity? (required)

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details. Include as many details as possible, such as when you were a member and why. This will help us process your application:
- From: Enter the date you became a member (required)
- To: Enter the date you stopped being a member (if you are still a member select todays date) (required)
- Organization name (required)
- Type of Organization (required): include details like the organization's objective or mission
- Your activities (required): include details like any positions you held and what you did as a member of this organization
- Country or territory (required): select one from the drop-down menu
- City or town (required)

Click "Save".

Question 116:

Have you ever witnessed or participated in the ill-treatment of prisoners or civilians, looting, or desecration of religious buildings? (required)

If you were not a member of the military but witnessed these actions, you may respond "No".

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".

If you choose "Yes", click on "Add" and enter the details. Include as many details as possible about what happened, when and why. This will help us process your application:
- Date incident began (required)
- Date incident ended (required)
- Branch, unit of service, or Perpetrator (required)
- Country or territory (required)
- City or town (required)
- Details (required)
  - Include information about the incident, such as what happened and if you witnessed it or participated.

Click "Save".

Question 117:

Have you ever used, planned, or advocated the use of armed struggle or violence to reach political, social or religious objectives? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, provide your answer in the text box. Include as many details as possible about what happened, when, and why. This will help us process your application.

Click “Save and continue”.

Canada and United States Visas

Question 118:

Are you a lawful permanent resident of the United States with a valid Green Card (alien registration card)? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, answer the following questions:
- What is the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) number on your permanent resident card (green card)?
- Green card expiry date (required)

Question 119:

What is your current status in Canada? (required)

Select one from the drop-down menu:
- Permanent resident
- Visitor – visa exempt
- Visitor – with visa
- Student
- Worker
- Temporary resident permit holder
- Foreign national – no status
- Protected person

Question 120:

What is the number on your immigration status document? (IRCC) (optional)

Enter the document number found on your study permit, work permit, visitor record, temporary resident visa counterfoil, temporary resident permit, or confirmation or permanent residence.

Question 121:

Did you apply for a visa to enter Canada in the last 5 years?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, add additional details below (required).
- Date of application
- Which Canadian office did you apply at? (required)
- Type of Canadian visa applied for:
  - Work
  - Visitor
  - Immigrant
  - Student
  - Other
- Was the application accepted?
  
  From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.
  - If you choose “No”, click “Save and continue”.
  - If you choose “Yes”, indicate the dates below (required).
- Date visa was issued
  - Indicate the year, month, and date
- Expiry date of visa
  - Indicate the year, month, and date
- Date visa application was refused
  - Indicate the year, month, and date
- Reason for visa refusal
  - Provide details for the refusal in the text box
- Was the information provided on your visa application complete, true, and correct?

Question 122:

Do you currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, indicate additional details below (required).
- If you indicate “Yes”, you will need to upload a copy of your U.S. non-immigrant visa before you submit your application.
- Indicate your non-immigrant visa number, found on your visa (required)
- Indicate the expiration date on your non-immigrant visa (required)

Canadian Visa Assistance

Question 123:

Did someone help you get this Canadian visa? (required)

This question will appear depending on your answer above. You must outline all individuals either paid, unpaid and/or friends or family who assisted you.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, indicate the individuals that helped you below (required).
- Surname/last name
- Given name/first name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Your relationship to this person
- Type of help:
  - Travel agent
  - Facilitator
  - Guidance
  - Consultant
  - Friend/Family
  - Other (free text)
Select all the visas that this person helped you with.
Did you pay this person?
- From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Accommodation

Question 124:

Do you need accommodation for any of the following?

If you need accommodation for one or more of the conditions below, select which ones. If you don’t need accommodation, leave this field blank. Note, this does not include the services of an interpreter if you need one because you don’t speak English or French. If you do need an interpreter, you should leave this field blank.

Select "Unable to appreciate the nature of the proceedings" if any of the following is true:

You are under 18 and you are not in Canada with your parent or legal guardian.
You are under 18 and the adult you are with is not your parent or legal guardian — for example, an older sibling, aunt or uncle, cousin, family friend, employer, or someone who helped you travel to Canada.
You don't know your exact age, or you have no document showing your date of birth, and you may be under 18.
A condition such as a mental health condition, an intellectual or cognitive disability, or the effects of trauma make it hard for you to follow what is happening in your claim or to make decisions about it.

Blind or has a visual impairment
Deaf or hard of hearing
Mobility impairment (uses a wheelchair, cane, etc.)
Unable to understand the proceedings

Question 125:

Do you need any other accommodation not listed above (please specify)

If you need accommodation for another condition, write it in the text box. Note, this does not include the services of an interpreter if you need one because you don’t speak English or French. If you do need an interpreter, we’ll provide one and you should leave this field blank.

Review your application summary for Part 1

Review the information you entered to ensure it is complete and accurate. If you need to make changes, edit the applicable section, update any related information if prompted, and save your changes before returning to the application summary. Once you have confirmed that all information is correct, continue to the next step.

Step 2. Gather and upload documents

Upload all required documents before submitting Part 1 of your refugee claim application. The documents you must provide depend on the information you entered in your application. You may also upload optional documents to support your application. Ensure your files meet the required file size limits and accepted file format requirements.

Complete the consent and declaration

Before submitting Part 1 of your refugee claim application, complete the consent and declaration. Depending on whether you are applying on your own or through an authorized representative, you or your representative must confirm that the information provided is complete, truthful, and accurate, and sign the declaration as instructed. Once the declaration is complete, submit your application.

Step 3. Submit Part 1 of your application

After you submit Part 1, you will receive a confirmation message in your account and a PDF copy of your submitted application. Keep a copy for your records.

IRCC will contact you through your online account if additional information is required or to provide details about your appointment.

IRCC will contact you to schedule your in-person appointment. At your appointment, your claim will officially be made and an officer will determine whether your claim is eligible for referral to the Immigration and Refugee Board. If it is eligible, you will be given instructions for completing an additional part of the refugee claim application.

Part 2: If your claim is eligible to be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board

Part 2 is to be completed by those whose claims have been determined to be eligible at their appointment.

Step 4. Complete Part 2 of your application

Answer the questions within the portal
Answer the questions truthfully and with as much detail as possible. These questions will be reviewed by IRCC and CBSA and will be used by the Immigration and Refugee Board at your hearing.
Review all your answers. You can make changes directly in the portal until you submit your application.
Each adult applicant must review and attest to the truthfulness of the information. Minor applicants will need to have an adult sign on their behalf.
If an interpreter is used, a signed declaration from the interpreter must be included.

Note: Review information submitted during Part 1 of the application

You will see the information you submitted in Part 1 of the Refugee Client Application. Click on “Expand all” to view the information. This information can not be changed and is also viewable in your Client Registration Summary.

Complete the following questions for Part 2

Question 126:

Provide your nationality/nationalities, ethnicity/ethnicities, racial group(s), or tribe(s) (required):

Enter your response in the text box below.

Question 127:

Provide your religion and denomination or sect (required)

Enter your response in the text box below

Question 128:

List all languages you speak (required)

From the drop down menu, select the languages you speak from the drop-down list. You may select up to 8 other languages.

Question 129:

List all the dialects you speak (required)

Indicate all the dialects you speak in the text box provided.

Basis of Claim

The following questions are where you will explain in your own words why you are claiming refugee protection and will help guide you to include the most important parts of your life experience.

It is important that you include all important facts and events and tell the truth.

Include details about what happened to you, who harmed or threatened you, and why you would be at risk if you return to your country or countries (i.e., the reasons for your claim). It is important that all your answers be submitted within the portal. If you do not complete the information within this format, your application may be considered incomplete and it could result in delays in processing.

Important: Refugee protection protects people from a risk of persecution because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group. It also protects people from a danger of torture, a risk to their life or a risk of cruel and unusual treatment or punishment. The following questions ask if you or your family have experienced persecution or other harm. This could mean mistreatment, harm, or threats by any person or group.

Question 130:

Are you afraid to return to your home country, or country where you normally live, because you believe you are at risk of persecution or other harm there? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.
If you choose “Yes”, from the drop down menu, select the country/countries where you believe you are at risk of persecution or other harm.
- You can choose more than one country

Question 131:

Is there another country where you believe you are at risk of persecution or other harm? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, from the drop down menu, select the country/countries where you believe you are at risk of persecution or other harm.
- You can choose more than one country

Question 132:

Were you and/or your family, and/or other people in your situation persecuted or did they face other harm by any person or group? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 133:

Do you know who caused the persecution or other harm? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 134:

Do you know why you and/or your family, and/or other people in your situation were persecuted or faced other harm? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 135:

Did you try to get help from authorities like the police, or another organization? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 136:

Did you move to another part of your country to be safe? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 137:

Did you move to a different country (other than Canada) to be safe?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 138:

When did you leave your country? (required)

If you don’t know it, enter “unknown” for the year, day or month.

Question 139:

Explain why you left on that date (required)

Enter your response in the text box in the portal. There is a character limit of 750,000 characters. Only, if you exceed the character limit the remainder of your answer must be uploaded as an additional document prior to submittal.

Question 140:

Why did you not claim when you arrived in Canada (at a port of entry)? (required)

Enter your response in the text box in the portal (required). If you claimed at a port of entry enter “N/A”. There is a character limit of 750,000 characters. If you exceed the character limit the remainder of your answer must be uploaded prior to submittal.

Question 141:

Why did you decide to come to Canada (instead of another country or territory)?

Enter your response in the text box below (required). There is a character limit of 750,000 characters. If you exceed the character limit the remainder of your answer must be uploaded prior to submittal.

Question 142:

Give more details about your answers to the questions above.

Enter your response in the text box below (required).

Describe any important events that happened to you and/or your family, in the order that they happened. Give as much detail as you can and include dates, places, and names wherever possible.

Please consider the following questions when you answer:
- When the harm, mistreatment, or threats occurred.
- Who do you think caused the harm, mistreatment, or threats?
- What do you think was the reason for the harm, mistreatment, or threats that occurred?
- Did people in situations similar to yours experienced such harm, mistreatment, or threats?
- What would happen to you if you returned to your country?
- Who would harm, mistreat, or threaten you if you returned to your country?
- What do you think is the reason you would be harmed, mistreated, or threatened if you returned to your country?
- If you asked any authorities (e.g., the police or other organization) to protect or assist you, who did you approach for help, what steps did you take, and what happened as a result.
- If you moved to another part of your country to seek safety, why did you leave the place that you moved to?
- If you moved to another part of your country to seek safety, why could you not live there?
- Why could you not live in another part of your country today?
- If you moved to another country (other than Canada) to seek safety, please state the name of the country, when you moved to that country, how long you stayed there.
- If you moved to another country (other than Canada), did you claim refugee protection in that country, and if not, why not?
- Reminder: Give as much detail as you can and include dates, places, and names wherever possible.
- Explain why you answered Yes OR No to all of the questions above using the questions above to help guide your answers.
- Include any other details you think are important for your refugee protection claim.
- If a member of your family group is relying on your reasons for claim, this information will be provided to the IRB and relied on by the IRB decision maker at their hearing.
- Your response must be submitted in the portal.
- There is a character limit of 750,000 characters. Only if you exceed the character limit should the remainder of your narrative be uploaded in
- a separate document prior to submittal. This can be done by submitting a PDF or Word document containing additional text to support your narrative

Remember your narrative must be entered in the free text box below. You may type directly in the box or you may copy and paste into the portal from an offline document.

Question 143:

*Only appears for applicants who are not the head of family*

Are you relying on the same reasons for claim as another family member? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 144:

Which family member in your claim group are you relying on?

If you choose “Yes”, indicate which family member in your claim group are you relying on.

You must click the check box confirming that you have read the selected family members’ reason for claim and want to use that for your application

If you want to add more details, provide them in the text box.

Your additional details must be entered in the free text box below. You may type directly in the box or you may copy and paste into the portal from an offline document.

Describe any important events that happened to you and/or your family, in the order that they happened. Give as much detail as you can and include dates, places, and names wherever possible.

Please consider the following questions when you answer:

When the harm, mistreatment, or threats occurred.
Who do you think caused the harm, mistreatment, or threats.
What do you think was the reason for the harm, mistreatment, or threats that occurred.
Whether persons in situations similar to yours experienced such harm, mistreatment, or threats.
What would happen to you if you returned to your country?
Who would harm, mistreat, or threaten you if you returned to your country?
What do you think is the reason you would be harmed, mistreated, or threatened if you returned to your country?
If you asked any authorities (e.g., the police or other organization) to protect or assist you, who did you approach for help, what steps did you take, and what happened as a result.
If you moved to another part of your country to seek safety, why did you leave the place that you moved to?
If you moved to another part of your country to seek safety, why could you not live there?
Why could you not live in another part of your country today?
If you moved to another country (other than Canada) to seek safety, please state the name of the country, when you moved to that country, how long you stayed there.
If you moved to another country (other than Canada), did you claim refugee protection in that country, and if not, why not?
- Reminder: Give as much detail as you can and include dates, places, and names wherever possible.
- Explain why you answered Yes or No to all of the questions above using the questions above to help guide your answers
- Include any other details you think are important for your refugee protection claim.
- If a member of your family group is relying on your reasons for claim, this information will be provided to the IRB and relied on by the IRB decision maker at their hearing.
- There is a character limit of 250,000 characters. If you exceed the character limit the remainder of your narrative must be uploaded prior to submittal.

Minors – Parent authorization – children in claim

The questions you need to answer will vary on your responses within this section.

Question 145:

Are children who are less than 18 years old claiming refugee protection with you? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, indicate additional details in the next question.

Question 146:

Select the relationship to the child

You are the child’s parent, and the other parent is in Canada.
You are the child’s parent, but the other parent is not in Canada.
You are not the child’s parent.

If you indicate that you are the child’s parent, but the other parent is not in Canada, or you are not the child’s parent, you will need to provide additional details.

Question 147:

Do you have any legal documents or written consent allowing you to take care of the child or travel with the child? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”

Question 148:

What documents do you have?

Outline these documents and provide additional details in the free text box.

If you have legal documents or written permission, it must be uploaded when you submit your claim.

Question 149:

Explain why you do not have legal documents (required)

Enter your response in the text box below.

Question 150:

If there is a child younger than 7 years old that is claiming with you, explain why you think the child is at risk of persecution or other harm.

Only answer if there is information that is specific to the child's situation. Provide an explanation for each child under 7 in your group. You may type directly in the box or you may copy and paste into the portal from an offline document. If you exceed the character limit the remainder of your narrative must be uploaded prior to submittal.

Previous Claim History

Question 151:

Have you ever made any previous claims for refugee protection in Canada or at a Canadian visa office abroad, in any other countries or territories, or with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)(required)?

This includes claims that were accepted, rejected, or which were abandoned or withdrawn in any country. Include information about:

Claims made to the governments or authorities of other countries
Claims made at a Canadian office in another country
Claims from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

From the options, select "Yes" or "No".
If you choose “Yes”, you will be asked to provide additional details related to you claim and to the countries or territories you made your claim.
- Country or territory
- Date you made this claim
- Claim outcome
- Claim details

Question 152:

Have any of the relatives you named in Family Information made refugee or asylum claims in another country? (required)

Includes all individuals you provided in part 1 of the Refugee Claim Application in the family information not just those in your claim group

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, you must list all claims that were accepted, rejected, or which were abandoned or withdrawn in any country. Include information about:
- Claims made to the governments or authorities of other countries
- Claims made at a Canadian office in another country
- Claims from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
click “Add” and enter the details:
- Country or territory
- Date the relative made this claim
- Your relationship to the individual
- Claim outcome
  - Accepted
  - Rejected
  - Abandoned
  - Withdrawn
  - Other
If you select “other”, include details on their claim, including the IRB file number and their client ID.

Assistance with your application

Question 153:

Did you have assistance from a representative/ lawyer / paralegal / notary (Quebec) / certified immigration consultant in completing this refugee application? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 154:

Did you get help from an interpreter to complete this application? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, the interpreter declaration form must be uploaded when you submit your claim.

Question 155:

*Only appears for applicants who are not the head of family*

Did you get help from an interpreter other than the one used by the head of family to complete this application?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, a separate interpreter declaration form must be uploaded when you submit your claim.

Question 156:

Did someone assist you with this application?

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, list all individuals who assisted you. Do not enter individuals within your group (if applicable). This could include anyone who helped you, e.g., a family member or friend.

Surname or Last name (required)
Given name or First name (optional)
Telephone type (required)
Select telephone number country or territory (required)
Country code (required)
Telephone numbers (required)
Extension number (optional)
Email address (required)
How did they assist you? (required)

Click “Save”.

Counsel Information

Your counsel cannot interpret your application because it could be a conflict of interest. For example, if there are questions about the interpretation during your hearing, your counsel cannot represent you and testify about how the interpretation was done.

Question 157:

Will your paid representative who helped you complete this application be representing you at your refugee protection hearing?

This information is for the IRB’s use. IRCC and CBSA will not communicate with this representative unless they are your Authorized Representative with the department.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 158:

Do you have a counsel that will represent you at your Refugee Protection Division (RPD) hearing? (required)

Counsel can be:

A lawyer
A notary (Québec only)
A paralegal (Ontario only)
A certified immigration consultant
A family member or another person

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

If you choose “Yes”, select the type of counsel you have.
- A lawyer
- A notary (Québec only)
- A paralegal (Ontario only)
- A certified immigration consultant
- A family member or another person

Provide your counsel’s membership identification number. Indicate in the free text box provided.

What is your relationship to this person? Indicate in the free text box provided.

Indicate the following:

Surname/last name (required)
Given name/first name (optional)
Telephone type (required)
Select telephone number country or territory (required)
Telephone numbers (required)
Extension number (optional)
Email address (required)

Counsel address information

Country or territory (required)
Address lookup
- Start typing your address, if your address doesn’t show up, choose “Enter address manually” and enter your address details in the fields below.
Street number
Street name
Apartment or unit number
PO Box
City or town
Province
Postal code, in the following format: X9X9X9
- You must provide a postal code or zip code when you are inputting a Canadian or US address.

Language at Hearing

Question 159:

Do you need an interpreter for your interview and any hearings with the RPD? (required)

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Question 160:

What language or dialect do you want to use during your interview and any hearings with the Refugee Protection Division? (required)

Select a language from the drop-down menu. If your language is not listed in the drop-down box manually enter it.

Other Claim Details

Question 161:

Do you want to apply for a work permit?

Choose Yes if you want to request a work permit. You don't need to submit a separate application or pay extra fees. Requesting a work permit doesn't mean you'll get one. You must still be eligible for a work permit. If you are eligible and we approve your permit, we'll mail it to you after you complete your medical exam.

From the options, select “Yes” or “No”.

Click “Save and continue”.

Summary of your Information

How to review and correct your answers

Select the Edit icon to change your answers
- For example, if you need to correct your religion, click on the Edit icon in the Basis of Claim section of the summary information.
If you change your answers, you may need to answer related questions again
- If so, you’ll see empty fields for those questions.
- You won’t be able to move to the next section until you answer the questions in the empty fields.
To return to the summary screen, you need to click on the ‘Save and continue’ button of each section.
Click “Save and continue” when complete.

Step 5. Gather and upload documents

After you answer all the questions, you can add supporting documents to your claim.

Documents to support your claim

The list of documents you need to give us depends on how you answered the questions.

If you are required or want to submit supporting documents, you need to upload them before you submit your claim.

Make sure the documents you upload are accurate and complete. Review them before you upload them.

Note: You can't change or add documents in your application after you submit your claim in the portal. You can bring additional documents to your eligibility interview (if applicable) if you would like to include them with your claim. You can't delete a document once you upload it to the portal. You can only replace a document by uploading a new one in its place.

After submitting your claim, you can update your Basis of Claim information or provide additional supporting documents through the IRCC web form by selecting "Update your application".

Include a document that explains any changes to your narrative and lists the additional supporting documents.

Once your claim has been referred to the IRB, all updates and supporting documents must be submitted directly to the IRB within 30 days of the referral date shown on your Confirmation of Referral letter.

Translation of documents

If you are submitting documents that are not in English or French, you must provide a translation (in addition to the original document). A human translator must complete any translations. The Government of Canada does not accept documents translated by software, artificial intelligence (AI), or web services like Google Translate.

Your counsel cannot interpret this form for you because it could be a conflict of interest. For example, if there are questions about the interpretation during your hearing, your counsel cannot represent you and testify about how the interpretation was done.

The translations and a translator's declaration must be provided, along with copies of the documents. The translator's declaration must include:

the translator's name;
the language translated; and
a statement signed by the translator that the translation is accurate.

You must pay for these translations yourself. You must bring the originals to your hearing (or give them to the IRB sooner if the IRB asks for them), unless the documents have been seized by IRCC or CBSA.

Make sure the documents you upload are accurate and complete. Review them before you upload them.

Missing documents or information in your application

If information is missing or an incorrect document has been uploaded with your application, we will send you a message to request it. Check your email regularly, including the junk/spam folders.

You can submit any information we request securely using your portal account. We will need the missing information to continue processing your claim.

If you do not provide the missing information, your claim will be transmitted to the IRB for pre-referral abandonment proceedings to determine if your claim has been abandoned.

File size and accepted formats

A file size of 9.6MB is allowed for the Passport, Other travel documents and Basis of Claim documents. Every other document has a file size limit of 2MB.

We accept these file formats:

.tiff
.jpg
.pdf
.doc (if you get an error message, you must convert to .docx)
.docx
.png

If your file is bigger than the size limit or you need to provide multiple files in 1 upload field, our website's Help Centre has tips to help you.

Passport or travel documents (if in your possession)

You must provide a recent photocopy of a least one passport or travel document (for each claim). All photocopies must be clear and easy to read. Ensure that you are photocopying the page with your photo on it.

If you return to your country of persecution or travel using your passport you risk:

having your claim rejected (if your claim is still being processed)
losing your protected person status (after Canada has given you refugee protection)

How to find out more about each document

Click on each document name to learn more about what it is, what details to include in the document, and useful tips.

Consent and declaration

The text displayed will differ depending on whether you are applying for yourself, or an authorized representative is applying on your behalf.

The Consent and Declaration form will need to be signed by each adult applicant prior to submission and will need to be signed on behalf of any children (17 and under).

Read the consent and declaration and follow prompts, if you are an authorized representative applying on behalf of a claimant, you must electronically sign your name, not the claimant's name. Do not use initials. Then you will need to submit the completed consent and declaration form.

Required documents

You must upload:

Copy of your travel/ID document (in colour if possible), unless it is not in your possession and you have provided details why (if applicable)
Signed Consent and Declaration form (IMM 0292)
- The consent and declaration will need to be completed by each claimant over 18 years of age. This will need to be completed if you are submitting you application with or without a representative. If your representative is submitting on behalf of you, they will need to complete the client consent with the help of a representative, and you will need to complete the supporting consent and declaration form. To complete the consent and declaration form, please download the form and follow the instructions within.
Signed Interpreter Declaration (PDF, 303 KB) (if applicable)
Completed Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476) (if applicable)

Optional documents

You can upload other documents in support of your claim, including:

Identity documents
Proof of your arrival and entrance to Canada
Proof of membership in political organizations, unions, or other groups
Police or medical reports
Custody or guardian documents (if applicable)
Business records
A copy of your Green Card
A copy of any Permanent Resident documents
A copy of any criminal convictions
Proof of ill-treatment, desecration, or looting you witnessed or took part in
An explanation of any difficulties you had in submitting or providing information in the portal
Any documents related to parent authorization to travel (if applicable)
Proof of ill-treatment, desecration, or looting you witnessed or took part in
You can upload the remainder of your risk question narrative only if you exceeded the character limit of the narrative text box in the Reasons for Claiming Refugee Protection section
An Appointment of a Designated Representative for Accompanied Minors form (if applicable)

When submitting evidence containing graphic content, such as pictures or videos that show violence, serious injuries, or sexually explicit acts, you must clearly identify the document by labelling it with "Notice: Graphic Content".

Step 6. Submit Part 2 of your application

Once you answer all the questions and upload your supporting documents, you can submit your application.
If you're completing applications for a group, you will only be able to submit them once you answer all questions and upload all documents for each group member.
After submittal you cannot modify your answers directly in the portal.
You have 60 days as indicated on your Notice of Application Due Date to complete Part 2 of your application in the portal and submit it.
If you need additional time, you may request a one-time 30-day extension in the portal to complete and submit your application.
If you do not complete Part 2 of the application by the applicable deadline, your claim will be transmitted to the IRB for abandonment proceedings. If it is determined that your claim has been abandoned, your removal order will come into force and any refugee claim you make in the future will be ineligible.

Under Full Name (required), enter your full name exactly as it appears in your application.

If you are submitting an application without the use of a representative, you will be prompted to select “Submit application”.

Note: Once you click this, you cannot modify or add information.

Your application has been submitted

Within 24 hours, you should get a confirmation message in your account for each application you submitted.

You'll also receive PDF copies of the information you submitted in a separate message. Download a copy of the PDFs for your records. Each claim you submit will have its own application number.

After we receive your application, it may take up to 5 days to see it in your account. If you don't see it after 5 days, report a technical problem through our web form. This won't delay your claim.

Only for representatives

Representatives must provide their electronic signature before submitting their client’s application.

After entering your client’s full name, select “Submit application”.

Declaration of representative

Read the consent and declaration before electronically signing your name in the text box. You must electronically sign your name, not the claimant’s name. Do not use initials.

Complete claim

Click “Submit Application”.

Note: Once you click this, you cannot modify or add information.

After we receive your application, it may take up to 5 days to see it in your account. If you don't see it after 5 days, report a technical problem. This won't delay your claim.

If we need to contact you

We'll email you to let you know there's a new message in your account.

We'll also contact you

If we need more information from you, like missing or additional documents or information
With a date for an appointment with an officer (if applicable)

What happens next

If you made a mistake, forgot to add something important to the determination of your claim, or if there is new information you wish to add to your application, you may submit it via IRCC web form before your claim is referred to the IRB.

If you have submitted all required information and documents, your claim will be referred to the IRB once security and screening are complete.

You can check the progress of your application by logging into your IRCC portal account. Continue monitoring your email account for any notifications or next steps.

After you apply online

What happens after you submit your application

You'll get a confirmation email from us soon indicating that you have a notification in your portal account.

Make sure to check the junk mail folder of the email address you gave us on your application. Some spam filters may block automated emails.

You should return to your "Account Home" page to save and print a copy of your Client Application Summary, and for updates on the status of your application. This document confirms that your application has been submitted, and shows details of what you submitted. You can find this document for each application you submitted by clicking "Check full application status" next to each claim on your home page.

We'll confirm there are no technical problems with your application before entering it in our system. After we confirm your application, we'll add the information you provided to our system. Once this is done, you'll find application numbers in your list of claims.

The portal will provide the status of your application through the point a decision on eligibility is made and until your claim is referred to the IRB. You will see status updates on the following:

Medical results
Additional documents (requested by IRCC/CBSA)
Interview
Biometrics
Application Review
Eligibility decision
Referral of the claim to the IRB (if applicable)

When these statuses are updated and documents uploaded by IRCC into the portal, you will receive an email telling you that a change has been made to your account. Go to the "Messages about your application" section to view your messages from IRCC.

Note: It can take up to 7 days to add application numbers. If you don't see one after 7 days, contact us through our web form to report the problem. You'll need to know the reference number listed in your dashboard when you contact us.

Updating your contact information

During the application process, you must advise us of any change of address, telephone number(s) and email address immediately. Changes to your contact information should be made through the IRCC web form.

Note: If your claim has been transmitted for a pre-referral abandonment process and once your claim has been referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), you must also advise the IRB of any change in contact information.

If your address, phone number, email and/or counsel changes, immediately send the RPD a form. The RPD will not be able to reach you without your correct contact information.

You can find the change of address form on the IRB website.

Please visit the IRB website where you can find important information about the refugee claim process.

Protecting your information

Your personal information is:

available to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) employees who need to see it to provide the services to you, and
not disclosed to other organizations except as permitted under the provisions of the Privacy Act or the Citizenship Regulations.

For more information about the protection of your data, visit the Help Centre.

Online services

For more information about the programs offered by IRCC, visit Immigration and Citizenship.

Need help?

If you need help, you can find answers to common questions by visiting the Help Centre.

If you can't access the Internet from home or work, or you don't have a printer:

ask a friend, family member or community member for help
try a public library or business that provides internet access and printing services
contact a local non-governmental organization (NGO) or community organization that can help refugee claimants

If you are already inside Canada, the method to submit your refugee claim is online.

However, some clients may not be able to submit online for certain accessibility reasons. If you are unable to apply online, please see our website for further information on how to apply on paper.

For general questions (not case-specific information) authorized representatives may also contact IRCC through the Immigration Representative email mailbox: IRCC.ImmigrationRepresentatives-Representantsimmigration.IRCC@cic.gc.ca.

Page details

2026-11-03

Guide 0174 – Application Guide for the Inland Refugee Claim Process via the IRCC Portal

Table of Contents

Overview

Application guide

Symbols used in this guide

Before you apply

Representatives

Changing your representative

Complete the application

Be complete and accurate

Helpful information

Application process

Timelines

Part 1: Start your refugee claim with IRCC

Application questions

Step 1. Complete Part 1 of your application

Information about the representative

Mailing Address

New or Existing Refugee Claim

You selected: to make a new refugee claim

Documents you need to submit with Part 1 of the application

Information you need to enter

Important reminder

Submit your application

Groups

Personal Information

Other Identities

Contact and residential information

Current Home Address

Previous Address History

Contact Information

Language

Nationality and Identity

Citizenship Information

National Identity Documents

Travel Documents

Family Information – Marital Status

Current Spouse or common-law partner

Previous marriages or common-law partnerships

Family Information – Children not included in refugee claim

Family Information - Parents

Family Information - Siblings

Family Information - Grandparents

Guardian information

Guardian’s mailing address

Additional Family Details

Travel to Canada

Route to Canada

Additional Entry Information

Travel History

Work, education, and other activities

Education History

Military History

Police History

Government History

Criminality

Admissibility

Canada and United States Visas

Canadian Visa Assistance

Accommodation

Review your application summary for Part 1

Step 2. Gather and upload documents

Complete the consent and declaration

Step 3. Submit Part 1 of your application

Part 2: If your claim is eligible to be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board

Step 4. Complete Part 2 of your application

Complete the following questions for Part 2

Basis of Claim

Minors – Parent authorization – children in claim

Previous Claim History

Assistance with your application

Counsel Information

Language at Hearing

Other Claim Details

Summary of your Information

How to review and correct your answers

Step 5. Gather and upload documents

Documents to support your claim

Translation of documents

Missing documents or information in your application