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Refugee Claim Support
(Protected Persons)

UNDERSTANDING REFUGEE CLAIMS

Canada is internationally recognized for its commitment to protecting individuals who are fleeing persecution and seeking safety. If you fear returning to your home country because your life or freedom would be at risk, you may be eligible to make a refugee claim from inside Canada.

Who Can Make a Refugee Claim?

You can claim refugee protection in Canada if you are physically present in the country and unable or unwilling to return to your country of origin because you fear serious harm. Under Canadian law, there are two main categories of refugee claimants:

  1. Convention Refugees – People who are outside their country and cannot return because of a well-founded fear of persecution due to:

    • Race

    • Religion

    • Political opinion

    • Nationality

    • Membership in a particular social group (e.g., women facing gender-based violence, LGBTQ+ individuals)

  2. Persons in Need of Protection – People in Canada whose removal would subject them to:

    • A risk to life

    • A risk of cruel and unusual punishment or treatment

    • A danger of torture

Common Grounds for Refugee Claims

Each refugee case is unique. Even the smallest personal experiences may form the foundation of a compelling claim. Some common categories include:

1. Gender-Based Claims

Many women face discrimination, violence, or oppression because of deeply rooted gender norms in their country. These cases may include:

  • Forced marriage

  • Domestic violence without state protection

  • Risk of "honour"-based violence

  • Oppression related to mandatory dress codes, such as forced hijab

2. Political Opinion

Claimants may be at risk due to their real or perceived opposition to the government. This includes:

  • Participation in protests or political groups

  • Posting political opinions online

  • Having family members who are politically active or persecuted

3. Religious Beliefs and Apostasy

You may qualify for refugee protection if you:

  • Belong to a minority religion that faces discrimination or persecution

  • Have converted to another religion or become non-religious (ex-Muslim), and fear persecution or punishment

  • Face forced religious practices or religious laws that contradict your beliefs

4. LGBTQ+ and Identity-Based Persecution

Sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression continue to be criminalized or violently suppressed in many countries. Canada recognizes these risks and offers protection for individuals fleeing such persecution.

5. Ethnic or Minority Group Targeting

Belonging to a persecuted ethnic, linguistic, or indigenous group—especially where discrimination is systemic and state-sponsored—can be grounds for refugee protection.​

Even Small Details Matter

Often, claimants underestimate their own stories, thinking their situation isn’t "serious enough." In reality, even seemingly minor experiences—like being threatened, harassed, detained, or surveilled—may form part of a larger picture of persecution.

What matters is not just the severity, but the pattern of fear and lack of protection. That’s why it is essential to speak with a legal professional who can help you identify and present the strongest elements of your claim.

How We Can Help

At Farzan Fallah Law Corporation, we take the time to listen to your story. We build your refugee claim with care, compassion, and legal precision. From preparing your Basis of Claim (BOC) form to representing you at your refugee hearing before the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), we are with you every step of the way.

If you believe your return to your country would put your safety at risk, don’t wait. Reach out to us for a confidential consultation. Your story deserves to be heard—and protected.

Access to Legal Help Through Legal Aid BC

We understand that starting a refugee claim can be overwhelming—especially if you are under financial pressure. If you are a low-income individual or unable to afford legal representation, you may be eligible for free legal services through Legal Aid BC.

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