info@halaniimmigration.com
1940 Eglinton Ave E, Toronto, ON M1L 4R1
Mon–Sat · 9:00–18:00
HALANIImmigration
Shoukat Qumruddin Halani, RCIC-IRB
Enquiries+1 (647) 979-7175
HALANIImmigration
Shoukat Qumruddin Halani, RCIC-IRB
Enquiries+1 (647) 979-7175
HALANIImmigration

Refugee Claim — Processing Time

  • Home
  • Refugee Claim — Processing Time
Refugee Claim
Service OverviewDocument ChecklistFeesProcessing Time
Processing Time

Refugee Claim Processing Time — Current Windows and Timeline

Current processing windows for Refugee Claim, the factors that move the timeline up or down, and the typical milestone-by-milestone sequence from application submission to final decision.

Last reviewed:
Current Window

RPD hearing scheduled 12–24 months from claim intake. RPD decision typically issued at hearing or within weeks. RAD appeals (if applicable) decided 6–18 months after appeal filing.

Times are operationally derived from recent IRCC service standards and our own file-volume observations. Individual files vary based on the factors below.

What moves the timeline

These are the variables that most commonly extend or shorten Refugee Claim processing beyond the typical window.

  • IRB Regional Office workload — Toronto Regional Office is heavily backlogged; Vancouver and Montreal currently move faster.
  • Claim complexity — simple country-conditions-evidence files process faster than complex factual or credibility-heavy files.
  • Counsel preparation — well-prepared BOC and disclosure typically lead to shorter hearings.
  • Procedural matters — Minister-intervention or designated counsel involvement can extend timelines.

Typical milestone-by-milestone timeline

The table below sequences the main checkpoints from application submission to final decision. Use this to plan downstream events like start dates, housing, and family arrival.

MilestoneTypical duration
Claim referral to IRB → BOC submission deadline15 days
BOC submission → hearing scheduling4–12 months
Hearing scheduled → hearing date8–18 months
Hearing → RPD decisionDay of hearing to several weeks
Negative RPD → RAD appeal filing deadline15 days
RAD filing → RAD decision6–18 months

Important notes on Refugee Claim processing

• Refugee claim application has no IRCC application fee. Legal Aid coverage is available for financially eligible claimants in Ontario, BC, and Quebec.

• While waiting for the hearing, claimants can apply for a Work Permit and access provincial health coverage (IFHP).

Frequently asked questions — Refugee Claim processing

How long until my RPD hearing date after I make a refugee claim?
Currently 12–24 months from claim intake to RPD hearing date at the Toronto Regional Office. Vancouver and Montreal regional offices generally have shorter wait times (8–18 months). Specific factors affecting your hearing date: regional office workload, file complexity, whether the Minister is intervening, designated counsel involvement.
Can I work while waiting for my RPD hearing?
Yes. Refugee claimants are eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit. After biometrics and intake, the OWP application typically takes 3–6 weeks. The OWP allows you to work for any Canadian employer while you wait for the RPD hearing and any subsequent appeals. You also have access to provincial health coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP).
What happens if my RPD claim is refused — how long for the RAD appeal?
RAD appeal must be filed within 15 days of receipt of RPD reasons. The appeal record (with submissions) is due 30 days after filing the appeal. RAD decisions typically take 6–18 months from appeal filing. Most RAD reviews are paper-based (no oral hearing); the appellant cannot present new evidence except under specific s. 110(4) circumstances.

Need help understanding your file's status?

Use our live IRCC Processing Times tool for current service standards across all programs, or book a free consultation to review your specific file timeline.

Live processing times →Back to Refugee Claim
0