Refugee Claimants in Canada: Fact vs. Fiction

By the end of 2023, over 117 million people globally were displaced by conflict, violence, persecution, and human rights abuses. As long as these issues endure, refugees will seek safety internationally. Canada has a longstanding commitment to welcoming refugees spanning decades. However, in recent years we have seen a rise in online misinformation spreading misinformation about refugees in Canada, fostering bias and prejudice.

The Kinbrace Community is dedicated to dispelling misinformation. We provide accurate information, promote understanding, and build community support to counteract negative stereotypes. By debunking misunderstandings, we move closer to a world where refugee claimants are truly welcomed. Explore below to learn facts about refugee claimants in Canada and common myths that we’re challenging head-on. You can help spread the good information!

FICTION: “Refugee Claimants are Illegal Immigrants”
FACT: Refugee claimants have the legal right to seek asylum in Canada under international and domestic law.

Refugee claimants are not illegal immigrants, even if they have irregularly crossed into the country. The 1951 Refugee Convention, which Canada is a signatory of, and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) ensures that individuals can seek protection if they face persecution in their home country.

FICTION: Asylum Seekers “Jump the Queue”
FACT: Refugee Claims Do NOT Affect the status or processing times of other immigration applicants in Canada.

The notion that refugee claimants “jump the queue” in Canada is a common misconception. Here is why this is not the case:

Separate Streams: Refugee claimants do not take spots away from immigrants applying through other programs like family sponsorship, skilled worker programs, or other economic immigration streams. These are separate processes with different criteria and allocations.
Claim Processing: Refugee claims are processed by the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) of Canada, which is distinct from the departments handling other immigration applications. The IRB assesses each claim individually based on the merits of the case, including the need for protection.
Temporary Status: Refugee claimants often live in Canada on a temporary basis while their claims are being processed. They may receive work permits and access to essential services, but their long-term status is not guaranteed until their claim is approved.
Complexity and Prioritization: The refugee determination process can be complex and lengthy due to the need for thorough investigations and hearings to ensure that claimants genuinely need protection. This process is designed to prioritize individuals who are at risk and in urgent need of protection, but it does not affect the processing times for other types of immigration applications.
Backlogs and Delays: Both refugee and other immigration streams can experience backlogs and delays, but these are managed independently. The presence of refugee claimants does not delay other immigration applications.

FICTION: Criminals Pose as Refugees to Enter Canada
FACT: Refugees undergo strict background checks and security screenings before their claims are processed.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) checks all refugee claimants once they arrive in Canada. In fact, entering Canada as a refugee is far more difficult than as a visitor due to the number of security checks and lengthy and detailed interview process. The number of claimants who pose any sort of threat or security concern is statistically zero. If a claimant poses a security risk, has a serious criminal background, has participated in organized crime, or has committed a human rights violation, they are detained and not admitted into Canada.

FICTION: “Most Refugee Claims are Fraudulent”
FACT: The refugee determination process in Canada is an extensive and thorough process.

The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) carefully reviews each claim to ensure that only those who meet the criteria for refugee status are accepted. The majority of claims are genuine and involve individuals fleeing serious threats. The average refugee recognition rate from 2013 to 2023 was 70.4%. (Source: IRB Recognition Rate)

FICTION: “Canada Accepts All Refugee Claims”
FACT: The refugee claim process in Canada involves multiple steps including security screenings, interviews, and background checks.

Canada has a structured and rigorous process for evaluating refugee claims. Not all claims are accepted; only those that meet the strict criteria set by law are granted refugee status. The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) is responsible for hearing refugee claims and making determinations based on the evidence provided. (UNHCR Canada).

FICTION: “Refugee Claimants are a Burden on the Economy”
FACT: With Canada’s low birth rate and aging population, immigrants and refugees help keep the economy stable by working hard and filling job vacancies left by Canadians.

Many refugees become entrepreneurs and actually help create job opportunities for the wider community in Canada.

Studies show that refugees contribute to the economy over time by filling labor shortages, paying taxes, and starting businesses. The initial support they receive helps them integrate and become self-sufficient (UNHCR Canada).

FICTION: The only reason Canada should welcome refugees including refugee claimants is humanitarian responsibility.
FACT: Refugees and refugee claimants enhance Canada in a multitude of ways which can lead to mutual transformation.

Diverse Skills and Talents: Refugees bring a wide range of skills, talents, and experiences that can contribute to the economy. Many refugees are highly skilled and can fill gaps in the labor market, particularly in sectors experiencing shortages.

Cultural Enrichment: Refugees contribute to the cultural diversity of Canada. They bring unique traditions, languages, and perspectives that enrich Canadian communities and foster a more inclusive and vibrant society.

Economic Contribution: Over time, refugees contribute economically by working, paying taxes, and starting businesses. Studies have shown that refugees can have a positive impact on economic growth and innovation.

Demographic Balance: Canada has an aging population and a low birth rate, leading to concerns about labor force sustainability and economic growth. Refugees, like other immigrants, can help offset these demographic challenges by contributing to the workforce and increasing population diversity.

Global Reputation: Welcoming refugees enhances Canada’s reputation on the global stage as a compassionate and welcoming country. Canada has welcomed 1,088,015 refugees since 1980. Not only is this the right thing to do, it can also strengthen diplomatic relations and international partnerships.

Community Revitalization: Refugees often settle in communities that may be experiencing population decline. Their presence can revitalize these areas, leading to economic and social renewal. Refugees become friends, neighbors, colleagues and more.

Innovation and Resilience: Refugees often bring resilience and a strong work ethic, having overcome significant challenges. Studies show that their drive and determination leads to innovation and often entrepreneurial activities.

Social Cohesion: Successful integration of refugees can enhance social cohesion by promoting mutual understanding and respect among different cultural groups within Canada.

FICTION: “Refugee Claimants receive more Government Support than Veterans, pensioners, or other Canadians”
FACT: The support provided to refugee claimants, veterans, and Canadian citizens varies greatly in scope and purpose.

Here’s a comparison:
Refugee Claimants

Basic Support: Temporary healthcare, emergency housing, and social services while their claims are processed.
Work Permits: Eligible to apply for work permits

Veterans

Comprehensive Benefits: Pensions, disability benefits, extensive healthcare, mental health services, rehabilitation, and financial assistance.
Long-Term Support: Continuous and tailored support, often for life.

Canadian Citizens

Social Services: Access to public healthcare, education, unemployment benefits, and various social programs.
Specific Programs: Additional support for low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities.

Comparison

Refugee Claimants: Receive temporary and basic support during claim processing.
Veterans: Access to extensive, long-term benefits.
Canadian Citizens: Broad access to public services and targeted support programs.

Veterans generally receive the most extensive and long-term support, followed by Canadian citizens with broad public services, and refugee claimants with temporary, basic support.

Refugee Claimants in Canada: Fact vs. Fiction

FICTION: “Refugee Claimants are Illegal Immigrants” FACT: Refugee claimants have the legal right to seek asylum in Canada under international and domestic law.

FICTION: Asylum Seekers “Jump the Queue” FACT: Refugee Claims Do NOT Affect the status or processing times of other immigration applicants in Canada.

FICTION: Criminals Pose as Refugees to Enter Canada FACT: Refugees undergo strict background checks and security screenings before their claims are processed.

FICTION: “Most Refugee Claims are Fraudulent” FACT: The refugee determination process in Canada is an extensive and thorough process.

FICTION: “Canada Accepts All Refugee Claims” FACT: The refugee claim process in Canada involves multiple steps including security screenings, interviews, and background checks.

FICTION: “Refugee Claimants are a Burden on the Economy” FACT: With Canada’s low birth rate and aging population, immigrants and refugees help keep the economy stable by working hard and filling job vacancies left by Canadians.

FICTION: The only reason Canada should welcome refugees including refugee claimants is humanitarian responsibility. FACT: Refugees and refugee claimants enhance Canada in a multitude of ways which can lead to mutual transformation.

FICTION: “Refugee Claimants receive more Government Support than Veterans, pensioners, or other Canadians” FACT: The support provided to refugee claimants, veterans, and Canadian citizens varies greatly in scope and purpose.