Pre-removal risk assessment: After you apply

What happens after you apply

After we get your application, we review it and decide what to do next. Sometimes we schedule a hearing if

• we need to address an issue of credibility that is key to making a decision on your application
• the only reason you’re not eligible to have your claim referred to the IRB is because you made an asylum claim in a country Canada has an information-sharing arrangement with

You have the right to counsel during your hearing. Your counsel can be anyone you want to help you during the process, including

• a trusted friend
• community member

If your counsel is charging you for their help, they must be

• a registered immigration consultant
• a lawyer who is a member in good standing with their professional organization

In Quebec, a notary in good standing with their professional association can also represent you.

If we accept your application

In most cases, you become a protected person after we accept your PRRA application. After that, you can apply for permanent residence.

In some cases, we accept your PRRA application, but you won’t be eligible to become a protected person.

For example, you won’t be eligible to become a protected person if you’re both

• inadmissible for serious criminality
• at risk if you go back to your home country

In these situations, we let you stay in Canada until things change or it’s safe to send you to your home country.

If we reject your application

If we reject your PRRA application, you must leave Canada.

If you disagree with our decision, you can also apply to the Federal Court of Canada for a review. You still have to leave Canada unless you ask the Court for a temporary stay of removal.