Introduction:
Filing a refugee claim in Canada can be overwhelming — but what about supporting yourself while you wait for your claim decision? Many refugees worry about how they’ll pay rent or buy food if they can’t work.
The good news? In most cases, refugee claimants can apply for a work permit in Canada, but you must meet specific requirements. In this guide, AshLaw breaks down when, how, and why you can work as a refugee claimant — so you can stay focused on your safety and future.
Table of Contents:
- Can Refugee Claimants Legally Work in Canada?
- When Can You Apply for a Work Permit?
- Eligibility Requirements
- How to Apply for a Refugee Claimant Work Permit
- Work Permit Validity & Renewals
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- What if Your Refugee Claim is Denied?
- How AshLaw Can Help
- FAQ
1. Can Refugee Claimants Legally Work in Canada?
Yes! Refugee claimants can apply for a work permit while their claim is in process, allowing them to work legally and support themselves and their families.
However, you must first receive your Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) — this proves you are an active refugee claimant.
2. When Can You Apply for a Work Permit?
You can apply after receiving your RPCD and completing your medical exam. Without a valid RPCD, your application will be refused.
3. Eligibility Requirements
You must have an open refugee claim (pending or in process).
You must have completed an Immigration Medical Exam.
You must not be inadmissible on security or criminal grounds.
4. Work Permit Validity & Renewals
- Refugee claimant work permits are typically valid for 12 months and can be renewed as long as your claim is active.
- Renew early — at least 3 months before your permit expires.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Applying before completing your Immigration Medical Exam
❌ Submitting incomplete forms
❌ Failing to update IRCC with address changes
❌ Working without a valid work permit (illegal; could harm your claim)
6. What if Your Refugee Claim is Denied?
- If your claim is refused but you appeal (e.g., at RAD or Federal Court), your work permit may not remain valid.
- Contact a lawyer immediately to assess your options for maintaining status and legal work authorization.
7. How AshLaw Can Help
At AshLaw, we guide refugee claimants through every step of getting their work permit quickly and legally. We’ll help you:
- Apply correctly the first time
- Avoid delays with missing documents
- Understand what happens if your claim status changes
- Plan your case for both your refugee claim and work authorization
Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I work while waiting for my work permit?
A: No — you must have an approved work permit before starting any job.
Q: Can I switch employers with a refugee claimant work permit?
A: Yes, these are open work permits; you’re not tied to a specific employer.
Q: Do I need to pay the employer compliance fee?
A: No, refugee claimants are exempt.
Need help applying? Book a consultation with AshLaw today
