New laws in Canada may affect your refugee claim eligibility, even if you have already submitted your application. Some information on this website is out of date. We are updating it. Speak with a lawyer or trusted settlement service provider. Learn More

Representing yourself

If you cannot find a representative of any kind, you must do your BOC Form yourself, and go to your hearing.

If you do not have legal help: 

  • Attend a Ready Tour.
  • Read the Claimant’s Guide.
  • Read the National Documentation Package for your country.
  • Use this website as your guide.
  • Read everything the CBSA and IRB-RPD send to you and follow the instructions.
  • Be familiar with your BOC Form, your narrative, and your evidence. Make sure everything in these documents is true. 
  • Get help from family, friends, or other people in the community you can trust. For example, someone who is good at reading and writing might be happy to help you.