Refugees

World Refugee Day

Every year on June 20, World Refugee Day gives us the chance to focus the world’s attention on the millions of refugees in need of protection.

Refugees and persons in need of protection are people within or outside Canada who fear persecution and going back to their home country. There are more than 10.5 million refugees in the world who face uncertain futures with great courage, in unfamiliar environments, as they go about trying to rebuild their lives.

Many live in desperate conditions, often forgotten by the world at large.

Learn about Canada’s role

Canada is recognized around the world for its leadership in offering safe haven to people who need refugee protection. Find out more about what Canada is doing to help refugees.

Resettlement from outside Canada

CIC relies on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), other referral organizations and private sponsorship groups to find and refer refugees to be resettled in Canada. Find out more about refugees from outside Canada.

Sponsor a refugee

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor refugees from abroad who qualify to come to Canada. Sponsors must provide financial and emotional assistance for refugees once they arrive in Canada.

Claim refugee protection from inside Canada

If you feel that you will be persecuted or at risk if you return to your home country, you may be able to seek protection in Canada as a refugee.

Get help from within Canada

Find out more about the services available to refugees once they arrive in Canada.