Steps after submitting an asylum application

Immigration steps

1. Complete your immigration medical examination 

You must complete your immigration medical examination within 30 days of arrival. These are available in multiple languages, to see the doctor's list by language click here 

2. Complete the IRCC portal (QR code)

The IRCC portal must be completed online within 45 days of your arrival in Canada. This is an important step because it confirms your refugee claim. In this portal you will also apply for your work permit. 

It is recommended to do your portal with a legal representant. However, if you don't have legal representation, you are allowed to fill it by yourself. Be mindful that the IRCC portal information is an important step in your refugee process and will be included in your IRB case.

 

Click here for instructions on how to complete the IRCC portal and here to see the organizations that help you complete this step. 

IRCC portal link

https://ircc.canada.ca/visit-visiter/en/get-account-ircc-portal

3. Complete your Basis of Claim (BOC)

The Basis of claim is the most important form of your refugee claim application and it should be completed within 45 days of your arrival. This is the form that explains why you are asking for asylum in Canada and any information provided in it, will be used at your hearing to decide if you are accepted or not. 

Finding a lawyer

It is recommended that you complete this forms with a lawyer. For more information on how to find a lawyer click here.  If you have not found a lawyer within 45 days of your arrival, it is possible to request an extension with IRB to have more time to submit the BOC. For more information on how to complete this form and how to ask request an extension, click here. 

General steps

1.  Open a bank account

Opening a bank account is the first step to do before applying for Welfare. You can open a bank account at any Canadian bank. For more information on recommended banks, click here.

2. Complete your welfare application

You can complete your welfare application online or in paper. For detailed information on amounts you can receive, and how to apply, click here.

3.  Find an apartment

Here is a list of the most common sites and Facebook groups to find apartments and rooms for rent.

4. Register your children to school

After finding an apartment, you can register your child or children to school. Here is an article on how to register your children to school and what documents you need.

5. Register in French classes

The government of Quebec offers free French classes to refugee claimants. You can register after you find an apartment.