The Refugee Protection Division (RPD) is a tribunal within the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada that decides refugee claims made inside Canada. Individuals can submit claims at an office of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, through the Canada Border Services Agency at a port of entry, or online using the IRCC asylum application system. Claims made from outside Canada are processed separately by IRCC. Refugee claims generally fall into two categories: Convention Refugees and Persons in Need of Protection.

Once a claim is submitted, an officer determines whether it is eligible to be referred to the RPD. If accepted, a hearing is scheduled where the claimant must demonstrate why they cannot return to their home country. A Convention Refugee is someone who fears persecution due to reasons such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. A Person in Need of Protection is someone who would face serious harm, such as danger, torture, or risk to life if returned, regardless of their location within their home country.

Success in a refugee claim depends on strong evidence and credible testimony. In some cases, decisions may be made without a full hearing, but most require a formal appearance before the RPD. At Anwar Immigration Law Office, we assist clients at every stage from preparing and submitting applications to gathering evidence and representing them at hearings ensuring their case is presented clearly and effectively for the best possible outcome.