OA Clarke Immigration Services Inc.
Refugees & Asylum Seekers Guide
Humanitarian Protection and Resettlement Pathways
In-Canada Asylum Claims
Individuals physically present in Canada who fear persecution, torture, or cruel and unusual punishment in their home country can claim asylum. Eligible claims are referred to the independent Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) for adjudication.
Refugee & Protection Streams Matrix
| Stream Category | Primary Purpose & Mechanism | Work Permit Eligibility | PR Pathway |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Canada Asylum Claim | Claim made at a port of entry or inland office; decided by IRB (RPD). | Eligible for Open Work Permit upon medical completion. | Direct PR application upon receiving Protected Person status. |
| Government-Assisted (GAR) | Resettlement from abroad; funded by the Government of Canada via UNHCR referrals. | Immediate PR status granted upon landing in Canada. | Arrives directly as a Permanent Resident. |
| Privately Sponsored (PSR) | Resettlement from abroad sponsored by Canadian citizen/PR sponsorship groups. | Immediate PR status granted upon landing in Canada. | Arrives directly as a Permanent Resident. |
Resettlement & Permanent Residence
- Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP): Eligible refugee claimants and protected persons receive temporary health coverage for medical services while awaiting decision.
- Protected Persons PR: Confirmed protected persons in Canada can apply directly for Permanent Residence and include eligible dependants abroad.
- Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C): Alternative discretionary pathway for exceptional hardship cases not meeting standard refugee definitions.