Claiming asylum from within Canada
Canada offers asylum (legally known as refugee protection) to people within Canada who can prove they meet the definition of a Convention refugee or person in need of protection.
If you are not a refugee but want to stay in Canada, learn what options are available.
Changes to the asylum application start Nov 3, 2026
Our ongoing efforts to modernise the asylum process will affect how asylum claims are submitted in the IRCC Portal.
If you have an unfinished claim in the IRCC Portal on Nov 3
If you start a claim but don’t submit it by 11:59pm ET on November 2, 2026:
- you’ll need to answer new questions and review old ones
- your personal information will be saved
If you submit your asylum claim before Nov 3
If you submit your asylum claim in the IRCC Portal by 11:59pm ET on November 2, 2026, you do not need to provide new information unless we ask.
Features
Get an orientation booklet(opens in a new tab)
This third-party illustrated booklet gives you an easy-to-read overview of the refugee protection process in Canada.
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