In 2018, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reported a backlog of 180,000 illegal immigrants and asylum seekers. Here's some related information about asylum seekers and refugees in Canada:
Asylum seekers
People who are seeking international protection from their home country, but whose claim for refugee status has not yet been legally determined. They must apply for protection in the country they are seeking to enter.
Refugee claimants
People who have made a claim for protection as a refugee. This term is more common in Canada, while "asylum seeker" is more common internationally.
Processing times
As of November 2020, the projected wait time for refugee claims was about 24 months, and the projected wait time for refugee appeals was about 12 months.
Asylum and immigration
Canada respects its international obligations to those who genuinely need help and protection. However, seeking asylum is not a shortcut to getting around normal immigration rules and procedures.
Applying for permanent residence
If the IRB determines that you are a person in need of protection or a Convention refugee, you may apply for permanent residence.
Traveling outside of Canada
Refugees can use a Refugee Travel Document to travel to other countries, but they cannot return to their country of citizenship or the country where they were persecuted.
Withdrawing a claim
If you decide to withdraw your refugee protection claim, you must tell the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) in writing.
Backlog and wait times (Refugee claims and appeals)
?Key messages. As of the end of October, the inventory of pending refugee claims was 85,300, down 6,000 (6.5%) from 91,300 at the ...
Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada
Talking About Refugees and Immigrants: A Glossary Of Terms
Refugee claimant – a person who has made a claim for protection as a refugee. This term is more or less equivalent to asylum-seeke...
Canadian Council for Refugees
For asylum seekers: What you need to know - Canada.ca
Jul 26, 2024 — Safe Third Country Agreement remains in effect Seeking asylum is not a shortcut to get around normal immigration rules...