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Humanitarian & Refugee Claims

Refugee Protection

What it is: A program for individuals fleeing persecution, war, or serious harm in their home country and seeking protection in Canada. Successful applicants and their families receive Permanent Residency (PR).

Requirements:

  • Must meet the definition of a Convention Refugee (facing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group) or a Person in Need of Protection (facing risk of torture, cruel treatment, or death).

  • Can apply from inside Canada through the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) or be resettled from abroad through the Government-Assisted Refugee (GAR) Program or Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) Program.

  • Must pass security, medical, and background checks.

Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Applications

What it is: A special pathway for individuals who do not qualify under regular immigration programs but have exceptional circumstances that justify permanent residency. Successful applicants and their families receive Permanent Residency (PR), with the ability to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely, access social benefits, and apply for citizenship in the future.

Requirements:

  • Must demonstrate establishment in Canada, family ties, or significant hardship if forced to leave.

  • Consideration is given to children’s best interests and other compelling humanitarian factors.

  • Cannot apply if a refugee claim has been refused in the past 12 months unless there are exceptional circumstances (e.g., risk to life, health, or safety).