This section gives you an overview about preparing information for your claim. It gives you ideas for important evidence to support your story. It explains how to manage and share your important information.
Learn more about evidence and supporting documents in Section 5: Prepare for Your Hearing.
Write down your story
It is helpful to write down the story of what happened to you and why you are afraid to return to your country. Organize your story chronologically, from the beginning to the end, and include as many dates as possible. This can help you identify important evidence for your claim. Ensure you include every relevant detail and do not omit any important information. The IRB-RPD may disapprove if you withhold information or introduce new details at your hearing.
Gather your evidence
It is important to gather evidence to support your claim. Evidence helps the IRB-RPD believe what happened to you, and understand the situation in your country and why you cannot return.
Some examples of evidence you can gather are:
- Documents that prove who you are
- Evidence that shows what happened to you is true
- Documents or news reports that show what it is like in your country and why you are at risk there
- Letters or legal documents (affidavits) from people who can say your story is true
- Reports showing that you asked a government agency in your country for help
Try to get anything you need from your home country (your country or where you usually lived) as soon as possible. Getting police or hospital reports can take a long time. If you cannot get something, keep a record of how you tried to get it.
Review your documents and evidence
It is important to read through all your evidence and documents to look for mistakes. Someone may write a letter of support for you that does not match the information in your BOC Form. You may need to talk to the writer so you can explain at your hearing. Talk to your legal representative about what to do. It is very important that the IRB-RPD believes all the important parts of your story.
Translate all documents
All evidence must be translated into English or French. This takes time so do it as soon as possible. Check with your legal representative about what you need to get translated.
Keep a copy of all your documents
Keep photocopies of all your documents:
- Your BOC and other immigration forms
- Your narrative
- All evidence, applications, and letters that you or your legal representative give to the IRB, CBSA or IRCC
Get a file folder to keep your documents organized and safe. Keep your documents until you become a Canadian citizen.
Update your address
Always keep your address updated. This is important so you do not miss any information about your claim.