Welcome

UNHCR Canada - Help for refugees and asylum-seekers

🚨Important: Changes to Canada’s Asylum System 🚨

On 26 March 2026, Canada made some changes to its asylum system. More details will be announced soon.

These changes may affect who can apply, how your case will be processed, and the deadlines you must meet. For more information, please visit the government of Canada website

If you are thinking about claiming asylum in Canada make sure you get up-to-date legal advice and check for new information.

We will update this page when more details are available.

If you are fleeing your country because you fear persecution or risk to your life, you can apply for asylum in Canada. If you are granted asylum, you will receive refugee status and the right to stay. To apply for asylum, you must be physically present in Canada or be seeking entry into the country at a point of entry (airport, land border or seaport).  


On this website, you will find:

The information contained here is to be used as a guide and is not legal advice. If you have any questions, please seek legal assistance. 

Fraud alert: Individuals are falsely displaying UNHCR Canada’s phone number (613-232-0909) to offer resettlement in exchange for money. These persons are fraudsters and do not represent UNHCR. UNHCR services are always free.


Are you outside of Canada?  Are you seeking help for relatives abroad? Please select the country you want information about on UNHCR’s HELP homepage or contact your closest UNHCR country office.