5. Submit your BOC
Question and answer
How do I fill out my Basis of Claim form?If you made your refugee claim at a Port of Entry, you must file your Basis of Claim (BOC) form within 45 days of being found eligible to make a claim. Send a copy of your BOC to the registry office that your file is with:
- electronically by email or the My Case portal
- by mail, courier, fax, or in-person in some cities.
Each method has its own rules. Read: How do I submit documents to the RPD or RAD?
Keep the original BOC for your records and proof of submission, such as an email, fax, or courier receipt.
If you're making a refugee claim from inside Canada, you submit your BOC when you make your claim online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship (IRCC) portal. Keep copies of the BOC and all documents and translations you upload.
Incomplete BOC
It's very important to file your BOC on time. If you miss the deadline, you will have a special hearing to decide if your refugee claim is . If it's abandoned, your claim will not be heard.
You can ask for an extension of time, but it's not guaranteed.
If you cannot finish your BOC in time and do not get an extension, submit your incomplete BOC with as much information as possible. Include a letter explaining why you could not complete your BOC and say that you will provide a complete BOC as soon as possible. Get legal help right away. You must submit your updated BOC at least 10 days before your refugee hearing.
After you file your BOC
Gather evidence to support your refugee claim. All must be consistent with your BOC and the information in your immigration file. Have your lawyer or representative review anything you plan to submit. You must submit your evidence at least 10 days before the hearing.
This tipsheet explains which documents may support your BOC.
BOC amendments
If anything changes, or you notice incorrect information, tell your lawyer or licensed representative right away. It's very important to update your BOC before your hearing. If any information is missing, not true, or different from other information, then your claim could be refused.
You must submit any BOC amendments at least 10 days before your hearing.
This tipsheet explains how to amend your BOC after you've submitted it.
