If you have a refugee hearing date in British Columbia, then be normal and don’t panic. Many people get worried about the questions the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) will ask. The purpose of this meeting is not to trick you. The Board Member’s job is to understand your story, review the evidence, and decide whether you meet Canada’s definition of a Convention refugee or a person in need of protection.
What Is a Refugee Hearing?
A refugee hearing is a legal proceeding before the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. During the hearing, a Board Member listens to your testimony, reviews your documents, and decides whether your refugee claim should be accepted. Basically, this hearing is your opportunity to explain why you cannot safely return to your home country and why you need Canada’s protection.
Common Questions You May Be Asked
Although every refugee case is different, many hearings include questions like these.
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Why did you leave your country?
This is usually one of the first questions.
The Board wants to understand:
- What actually happened to you in your home country?
- Who harmed or threatened you?
- Why were you targeted?
- When did these events occur?
You must share information based on true events. Reliability is mandatory.
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What makes you afraid to return to your home country?
The Board wants to know why you are reluctant to go to your home country. In short, they want to access why returning home would put you at risk.
You may be asked:
- Who would harm you?
- Why would they target you?
- Has anything changed since you left?
- Do you still face the same danger today?
Your answer should clearly explain the current risk, not just past events.
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Can you describe what happened in detail?
The Board often asks follow-up questions about specific incidents.
For example:
- Where did it happen?
- Who was present?
- What exactly happened?
- Did anyone witness the incident?
- Did you seek medical treatment afterward?
These questions help the Board understand the facts and assess credibility.
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Did you report the problem to the police?
One of the key issues is whether your home country’s authorities were able or willing to protect you.
The Board may ask:
- Did you report the incident to the police or the relevant department?
- Why didn’t you report to the police?
- What happened after you reported it?
- Did the police investigate?
If you did not seek police protection, you should be prepared to explain why.
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Did you have a safe place in your country where you could live?
This is known as the Internal Flight Alternative (IFA).
You may be asked:
- Have you lived elsewhere in your country?
- Could the people threatening you find you?
- Why wouldn’t another city be safe?
The Board will consider whether relocating within your country would have been a reasonable option.
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Why did you come to Canada?
The Board may ask:
- How did you travel to Canada?
- Did you stop in another country?
- Why did you claim refugee protection here instead of elsewhere?
Your travel history can become an important part of your case.
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What documents support your claim?
You may be asked about documents such as:
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Court documents
- News articles
- Threatening messages
- Photographs
- Witness letters
The Board may ask where the documents came from and whether they are genuine.
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Is everything in your refugee claim accurate?
Before the hearing, the Board will usually ask you to confirm that the information in your Basis of Claim (BOC) Form is true and complete. If something has changed since you submitted your claim, tell the Board honestly and explain why.
Questions About Your Personal Background
The Board may also ask about your personal history, including:
- Your education
- Your employment
- Your family members
- Your address history
- Your religion
- Your political activities
- Military service, if applicable
These questions help provide context and may relate directly to your refugee claim.
Tips for Answering Questions at Your Hearing
To give yourself the best chance of presenting your case effectively:
- Listen carefully to each question.
- Answer honestly and truthfully.
- Speak clearly and directly.
- Do not exaggerate or guess.
- If you do not understand a question, ask for clarification.
- If you need an interpreter, make sure one has been arranged.
- Review your refugee documents before the hearing so the details are fresh in your mind.
Conclusion
Every refugee claim is unique. There is no fixed pattern for questions, because they depend on your personal circumstances, your Basis of Claim form, and the evidence filed with the Board. If you have an upcoming refugee hearing in British Columbia, getting legal guidance before the hearing can help you understand the process, prepare your evidence, and present your case effectively.
At CityLaw Group, our experienced immigration lawyers understand your case thoroughly, prepare a plan for you, and help you organize your evidence and answer questions confidently. So, if you need help preparing for your refugee hearing, Contact CityLaw Group today to discuss your case and receive experienced legal guidance before your hearing.
