Who the Refugees and Asylum is for
#- Individuals seeking protection as refugees
- Asylum claimants in Canada meeting legal protection criteria
- Applicants referred through resettlement programs
Eligibility nuances
#Eligibility depends on fear of persecution or risk in the home country.
Processes and requirements differ by claim type and location.
Official IRCC guidance to review
#Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.
Canada visa requirements checklist
#- Meet legal definitions for refugee protection
- Provide identity and background documentation
- Admissibility checks including biometrics and medical exams
- Follow specific claim or resettlement procedures
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- Identity documents and travel records
- Evidence supporting protection claim
- Biometrics and medical exam results where required
- Case-specific documents requested by IRCC
Comparing options? Review Family Sponsorship and Visitor Visa (TRV) before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Determine the correct protection pathway (resettlement or asylum claim).
- Submit the claim or application with supporting evidence.
- Complete biometrics, medicals, and interviews if required.
- Follow IRCC or tribunal instructions for the decision.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Family Sponsorship and Visitor Visa (TRV) before you finalize your plan.
Canada processing times
#Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Processing times vary widely depending on claim type and case complexity.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Submitting incomplete evidence for protection claims
- Missing deadlines or interview appointments
- Providing inconsistent personal history information
Common misconceptions
#- Asylum claims are the same as visitor visas.
- Protection claims guarantee approval.
- You can choose any pathway regardless of eligibility.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
What is the difference between resettlement and asylum?
Resettlement typically applies to refugees outside Canada, while asylum claims are made from within Canada.
Do I need documents to make a claim?
You should provide identity and supporting documents, but IRCC can give instructions if documents are unavailable.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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