1. Gather your evidence
Question & Answer
How do I prepare for my refugee hearing?The Refugee Board recently announced that it will continue to schedule all refugee hearings to be heard remotely. For more information, read the question.
A member of the Refugee Board looks at your to decide whether to accept your claim. You must give evidence that shows:
- who you are,
- how you came to Canada,
- why you left your country, and
- how you meet the definition of a Convention Refugee or person in need of protection.
Your evidence includes:
- your Basis of Claim (BOC) form
- what you say at your hearing
- any other evidence like documents that prove your identity and the risk you face in your country
- witnesses who can testify at your refugee hearing
The Board compares your evidence to the evidence in your immigration file. For example, you might have a previous application for a study permit or visitor's visa, or a previous refugee claim or an immigration application in another country.
You must file copies of all your documents and a list of any witnesses to the closest registry office at least 10 days before your hearing. If you miss the time limit, get legal help right away. Sometimes if you have a good reason the time limit can be extended, but it doesn't happen often.
