Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) is Canada's largest independent administrative tribunal. It is responsible for making well-reasoned decisions on immigration and refugee matters, efficiently, fairly and in accordance with the law. The IRB decides, among other responsibilities, who needs refugee protection among the thousands of claimants who come to Canada annually.

COVID-19 : Important information​

  • Update as of November 20:​ O​ur offices in Toronto remain open, all in-person hearings will proceed as scheduled.
  • ​Update as of November 18: All non-medical masks worn on IRB premises must adhere to the Public Health Agency of Canada’s (PHAC) guidelines, which specify that masks must:
    • be made of at least 3 layers
    • fit securely, allow for easy breathing, and not require frequent adjustment; and
    • ​be large enough to cover both the nose, mouth and chin.
  • Rigorous health and safety measures, developed in consultation with the Public Health Agency of Canada, continue to be in place.
  • Non-medical masks are required in hearing rooms and public spaces at all times and must adhere to PHAC guidelines​. If you are exempt from wearing a mask (see list of exemptions), please contact the applicable division in your region before attending you hearing.
  • A self-assessment questionnaire, will be sent directly to individuals who are scheduled to appear before the Board.
  • The IRB is monitoring public health guidance and will make adjustments as required. Please continue to look for updates on this page.

Learn more about how COVID-19 is impacting those who appear before the Board.

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Make a claim for refugee protection

This involves making a claim; submitting the necessary doc​umentation; attending a hearing; and finally, awaiting a decision.

Filing a refugee appeal or responding to a Minister's appeal

Learn about filing a Notice of Appeal and completing your Appellant's Record.

Filing an immigration appeal

Information on filing a Notice of Appeal and preparing for your appeal hearing.

Detention reviews and admissibility hearings

Information concerning the procedures for Admissibility Hearings and Detention Reviews, as well as legal decisions and guidelines.

Making a complaint to the IRB

Information on making a complaint about the conduct of a member, an unauthorized paid representative or an interpreter.

Member conduct issues

Information on summaries of decisions, archived reports, including the Second Annual Report on Complaints​.

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