In Detention

Contact people

It can be difficult to talk to people who are outside your centre or jail.

In the centres, you cannot use the internet or your own cell phone unless CBSA gives you permission. You can make free calls within Canada. You may need a prepaid international calling card to call another country. CBSA officers may let you make a video call.

Inside provincial jails, you may have trouble using a phone depending on which one you are in.

Get information

You can ask to speak to a CBSA officer for more information about the steps ahead. Your legal representative can also give you important information. 

There are Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) who support detained people. They may be able to visit you and give you information about your situation. Ask if you can speak to an NGO. 

Visitors

You may be able to have visits from friends, family members, or others. Visiting hours and conditions will vary. 

You may not be allowed to have visitors if you are being confined for some reason, such as public health.

Security measures

The centres and jails are staffed by security guards who enforce the rules and watch over you.

Being detained can be a very difficult experience. It will seem like a prison and you will not have basic freedoms. Handcuffs, shackles, and other restraints may be used when you are outside the facility.

Children

If you are in Canada with your children, they may be held in a centre with you. If you are separated from your children or other family members, tell your legal representative and get help from an NGO.

Make a complaint

If you have a complaint about your treatment, you can complain to CBSA. Any discussions you have may come up again at your hearings. It is important to get legal advice or get information from an NGO.

Your rights

While you are detained, you have the right to:

  • Be told why you are detained.
  • Have access to a CBSA officer.
  • Hire a legal representative to act for you.
  • Get legal aid if you qualify. You will be told about the legal aid services available to you. You may also get a friend or a member of an organization to represent you without a fee.
  • Contact your country’s embassy or consulate. If you are making a refugee claim, you should not do this without first getting legal advice. You can ask that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Canada be contacted.
  • Contact NGOs who may support you.
  • Get an interpreter if you do not understand or speak English or French.
  • Get medical attention. 
  • Practice your religion.