IRB Representation: RPD and RAD

Refugee Claims & Protection

As an RCIC-IRB, Shirani Jenita Daniel is authorized to represent clients before the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) and Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) of the Immigration and Refugee Board. Those are rights most immigration consultants do not hold.

A tabbed binder of documents being organised on a consultant desk

RCIC-IRB Authorization

Licence R705794, IRB Level 3

The IRB designation on Shirani’s licence authorizes her to appear before all four divisions of the Immigration and Refugee Board: the Refugee Protection Division (RPD), Refugee Appeal Division (RAD), Immigration Appeal Division (IAD), and Immigration Division (ID). Most immigration consultants hold only the basic RCIC designation and cannot provide this representation.

A calm empty hearing room with a wooden table and two chairs — Hearings before the Refugee Protection Division are held in a hearing room like this, often by video.

How the Refugee Claim Process Works

Claim at Port of Entry or Inland

Refugee claims can be made at a Canadian border crossing (port of entry) or inland at an IRCC office after arrival. Eligibility screening occurs first to determine if the claim can proceed.

Referral to the RPD

Eligible claimants are referred to the Refugee Protection Division for a full hearing. A Basis of Claim (BOC) form must be submitted within the required deadline.

Refugee Hearing Preparation

Shirani reviews the BOC, identifies supporting evidence, prepares country condition documentation, and prepares the claimant for testimony. Hearing preparation is critical.

RPD Hearing

The claimant presents their case to an RPD member. Shirani represents the claimant throughout the hearing, examines and cross-examines evidence, and makes legal arguments.

RAD Appeal (if needed)

If the RPD decision is negative, an appeal can be filed with the Refugee Appeal Division within 15 days of receiving the decision. Shirani is authorized to prepare and argue RAD appeals.

Facing a Refugee Hearing?

Don’t face the RPD alone. Book a consultation to discuss your claim and how Shirani can represent you.

Book Consultation ($50 + Tax) (825) 435-1101

IRB Division Jurisdiction

RPD Refugee Protection Division

Hears inland refugee protection claims

RAD Refugee Appeal Division

Appeals of negative RPD decisions

IAD Immigration Appeal Division

Sponsorship refusals and deportation appeals

ID Immigration Division

Admissibility hearings and detention reviews

Shirani is authorized to appear before all four divisions under Licence R705794.

A parent reading with two children on a sofa in a bright living room

Before the hearing

Preparation is where a claim is decided.

The Basis of Claim narrative, supporting documents and country conditions evidence are prepared well before the hearing date, and you are prepared for the questions the Member is likely to ask.

Tabbed document folders organised on a desk — Identity documents, the Basis of Claim form and supporting evidence are disclosed to the Board on the deadlines the rules set.

Refugee Claims FAQ

Am I eligible to make a refugee claim in Canada?

Eligibility is assessed before a claim is referred to the RPD. You are generally eligible if you are in Canada and fear persecution in your home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. You may not be eligible if you came from a safe third country (like the US under the STCA), if you already have status in another country, or in certain other circumstances.

What is a Basis of Claim (BOC) form?

The BOC is a written narrative you submit to the RPD explaining why you need protection. It is one of the most important documents in your refugee claim. Errors, omissions, or inconsistencies in the BOC can significantly harm your case at the hearing. Shirani reviews and helps prepare the BOC to ensure it is complete, consistent, and well-supported.

What happens if my refugee claim is rejected?

If the RPD denies your claim, you generally have 15 days to file an appeal with the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD). The RAD reviews the RPD decision and can confirm or overturn it, or refer the claim back for a new hearing. After RAD, there may be other options such as a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) or Judicial Review at the Federal Court.

Can an RCIC represent me at my refugee hearing?

Only RCICs who hold the IRB designation (RCIC-IRB) are authorized to appear before the Immigration and Refugee Board. Shirani holds RCIC-IRB Licence R705794, which includes full RPD and RAD representation rights.

Consultant listening to a client across a desk — The first consultation is a confidential review of what happened and what evidence exists.

Traveller arriving at an airport — Claims can be made at a port of entry or from inside Canada.

Red document folder and passport on a desk — Original identity documents are central to every claim.

A hearing is not the place to discover a gap in your file.

Shirani holds the RCIC-IRB designation and is authorized to represent you before the Immigration and Refugee Board.

Book Consultation About Shirani’s RCIC-IRB Credentials

30 minutes with a licensed RCIC-IRB. $50 + Tax. No obligation to proceed.

This article is general information and is not immigration advice. Advice about your own situation comes from a consultation with Shirani Jenita Daniel, RCIC-IRB, CICC Licence R705794. Representation begins only once a retainer is signed.