What is asylum?

If you are outside your country of origin and are afraid to return because you are in danger of suffering serious harm for reasons related to your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group or you risk cruel or unusual punishment, torture or death, you can apply for asylum in Canada.

The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) will examine your claim for asylum. During the processing of your asylum claim you cannot be forced to leave Canada as asylum-seekers are protected against refoulement (return).