Start a claim at a port of entry

You can claim asylum with a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer at an airport or border crossing when you enter Canada.

1. Prove your identity

   You and any family members claiming asylum with you must give the officer:

   • your original passports and travel documents
   • any other identification documents you may have

   The officer will:

   • seize the original travel documents and give you certified copies
   • fingerprint everyone age 14 and older
   • photograph every family member

   If you don’t have any identity documents, the CBSA may detain you until they can confirm who you are.

2. Complete your interview

   The border services officer will ask you about your background and collect information for your application. Based on this interview, they’ll decide whether your claim is eligible.

3. After your interview

   If your claim is eligible

   If your claim is eligible, the CBSA officer will let you into Canada and give you:

   • a conditional removal order
     • This won’t be enforced unless your claim is withdrawn, abandoned or rejected.
   • a Notice of Application Due Date document and instructions on how to complete your claim online in 60 days using the IRCC Portal
   • a Refugee Protection Identity Document that confirms your identity and asylum claim, and lets you access temporary health care coverage
     • You need this document to complete your claim online.
   • instructions for your immigration medical exam
   • a package with important information on the asylum process and copies of any forms you filled out with the CBSA
   If your claim is ineligible

   Find out what happens if your claim is found ineligible.