How do I fill out my Basis of Claim form?
The Basis of Claim (BOC) form is an important document every refugee claimant must complete. Your BOC is reviewed to decide if your refugee claim should be accepted.
In the BOC, you tell your story about why you're claiming refugee protection in Canada. You explain why you meet the definition of a Convention Refugee or a . You must give details about:
- what happened in your country
- why you're afraid
- whether you tried to get help from the police in your country
- whether you tried moving to another part of your country to be safe
- when you decided to leave
- why you decided to leave
You can also attach a longer written explanation, called a narrative. You do not have to include a narrative but it's a good idea.
Complete and correct
The BOC form is complicated. Complete it carefully and correctly.
Never guess an answer. If you do not know the answer, write “Unknown.” Do not leave any questions blank. If a question does not apply to you, write “N/A” for “not applicable”.
At your hearing, you will be asked questions about your BOC and narrative. And they're compared to:
- your
- the information in your immigration file
- what you say at your hearing
If any information is missing, not true, or different, your claim could be refused.
Language
The BOC is available in English or French. Choose which language and dialect you want to use at your hearing.
If you do not understand English or French, an interpreter must read the full BOC and narrative to you. They must sign to confirm that they interpreted the entire BOC to you before you file it.
Get legal help
It's important to get legal help to complete your BOC.
There's more information on the My Refugee Claim website, in multiple languages. And you can use these tipsheets to help you.
