If you have made a refugee claim in Canada, you may be asked to attend a refugee hearing. This hearing is an important step in deciding whether you will receive refugee protection in Canada.
Refugee hearings are held by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB).
What Is the IRB?
The Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) is an independent government tribunal. This means it is not a court, but it makes legal decisions about immigration and refugee matters.
The IRB has different sections. Refugee hearings are usually held by the Refugee Protection Division (RPD).
What Is a Refugee Hearing?
A refugee hearing is a meeting where a decision-maker listens to your story and asks questions about your refugee claim.
The purpose of the hearing is to decide whether you need protection under Canadian refugee law.
During the hearing, the decision-maker will look at:
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Why you left your country
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What you fear if you return
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Whether you meet the legal definition of a refugee
Who Is at the Hearing?
A refugee hearing may include:
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You, the refugee claimant
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An IRB decision-maker
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Your lawyer or legal representative (if you have one)
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An interpreter (if needed)
The hearing is usually private.
What Happens During the Hearing?
At the hearing, the decision-maker will ask you questions about your life, your experiences, and your fears.
You may be asked to:
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Explain what happened to you
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Describe why you cannot return to your country
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Answer questions clearly and honestly
It is normal to feel nervous. Many people find it difficult to talk about painful or traumatic experiences.
How Long Is a Refugee Hearing?
The length of a hearing can vary. Some hearings are shorter, while others take longer depending on the case.
You will be told in advance:
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The date and time of your hearing
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Whether it is in person or virtual
Why Refugee Hearings Can Feel Stressful
Refugee hearings can bring up strong emotions. You may feel:
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Anxious or afraid
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Overwhelmed
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Triggered by memories of trauma
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Worried about saying the “wrong” thing
These feelings are very common and understandable.
Legal Support and Emotional Support
Your lawyer or legal representative helps you with the legal side of your refugee claim.
Some people also seek emotional or psychological support before or after the hearing. This type of support focuses on managing stress, anxiety, and emotional reactions. It does not replace legal advice.
You Are Not Alone
Attending a refugee hearing can be one of the most difficult parts of the refugee process. It is okay to feel scared or unsure.
Learning what to expect can help you feel more prepared and less alone.
Support at Enlee
Enlee offers supportive services for individuals experiencing stress and emotional challenges related to refugee hearings. Our focus is on emotional and psychological support, not legal advice.
If you would like to learn more about Enlee’s services, visit us here.
Bonny Li
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