Refugee Claim in Process – Concerned About My IRCC Portal, Medical Appointment, and Work Permit

[Mohamed Tarawally]

Hello everyone,


I am seeking advice and guidance from anyone who has experience with the Canadian refugee claim process, particularly those who have experienced delays or issues with their IRCC portal.


I am currently in Windsor, Ontario, and I would appreciate hearing from people who have gone through a similar situation.


Here is a summary of my situation:


I came to Canada in July 2026 and subsequently decided to make a refugee claim because I fear returning to my home country, Sierra Leone, due to persecution and discrimination related to my sexual orientation.


I retained an immigration lawyer to assist me with my refugee claim. Before hiring my lawyer, I had independently started an application through an online portal, but I did not complete or submit that application.


My lawyer later opened a new portal/application and submitted my refugee claim on my behalf. My understanding is that the lawyer is handling the application that is currently active.


My Basis of Claim (BOC) was submitted on August 15, 2026. I also submitted a correction to IRCC on August 27, 2026.


However, I have continued to experience uncertainty about the status of my application.


My main concerns are:

1. The earlier incomplete application: I continue to receive messages relating to the portal I started myself but never completed. I am concerned that this earlier application may be causing confusion or affecting the application submitted by my lawyer.
2. Medical appointment: As of October 10, 2026, I have not yet received my immigration medical examination appointment or instructions. I would like to know whether this is normal at this stage of the process.
3. Application status: I have been unable to obtain clear confirmation of the current status of my claim through the online portal. I am concerned about whether the application submitted by my lawyer has been properly received and linked to my file.
4. Work permit and SIN: I have not yet received my work permit or Social Insurance Number (SIN). This has made it difficult for me to plan my life, look for employment, and become financially independent in Canada.
5. Communication with IRCC: I have already tried to raise my concerns with IRCC, but I am still looking for clarity about my application and the earlier incomplete portal.

The uncertainty has been stressful, especially as I am trying to settle into a new country and understand the process while waiting for updates.


I would be grateful if anyone could share their experience or offer guidance on the following questions:

• Has anyone experienced a situation where an incomplete online application continued to generate messages after a lawyer submitted a new refugee claim?
• Could an incomplete application affect or delay a separate claim submitted by a lawyer, or would IRCC normally treat them as separate records?
• How can I independently confirm that IRCC has received and properly recorded my lawyer’s submission?
• How long did you wait for your medical examination instructions after submitting your BOC?
• What steps should I take to clarify the status of my work permit application and determine whether I need to submit a separate application?
• Is there a particular IRCC office or official process I should use to resolve a possible duplicate or incomplete portal issue?

I understand that every refugee claim is different and that processing times can vary. I am not asking anyone to predict the outcome of my claim. I am simply looking for practical advice on how to verify that my application is properly recorded and what steps I can take while waiting.


Thank you for taking the time to read my post. Any helpful information from people with similar experiences, knowledgeable forum members, or regulated Canadian immigration professionals would be greatly appreciated.

 

[appwarez]

Hello everyone,


I am seeking advice and guidance from anyone who has experience with the Canadian refugee claim process, particularly those who have experienced delays or issues with their IRCC portal.


I am currently in Windsor, Ontario, and I would appreciate hearing from people who have gone through a similar situation.


Here is a summary of my situation:


I came to Canada in July 2026 and subsequently decided to make a refugee claim because I fear returning to my home country, Sierra Leone, due to persecution and discrimination related to my sexual orientation.


I retained an immigration lawyer to assist me with my refugee claim. Before hiring my lawyer, I had independently started an application through an online portal, but I did not complete or submit that application.


My lawyer later opened a new portal/application and submitted my refugee claim on my behalf. My understanding is that the lawyer is handling the application that is currently active.


My Basis of Claim (BOC) was submitted on August 15, 2026. I also submitted a correction to IRCC on August 27, 2026.


However, I have continued to experience uncertainty about the status of my application.


My main concerns are:

1. The earlier incomplete application: I continue to receive messages relating to the portal I started myself but never completed. I am concerned that this earlier application may be causing confusion or affecting the application submitted by my lawyer.
2. Medical appointment: As of October 10, 2026, I have not yet received my immigration medical examination appointment or instructions. I would like to know whether this is normal at this stage of the process.
3. Application status: I have been unable to obtain clear confirmation of the current status of my claim through the online portal. I am concerned about whether the application submitted by my lawyer has been properly received and linked to my file.
4. Work permit and SIN: I have not yet received my work permit or Social Insurance Number (SIN). This has made it difficult for me to plan my life, look for employment, and become financially independent in Canada.
5. Communication with IRCC: I have already tried to raise my concerns with IRCC, but I am still looking for clarity about my application and the earlier incomplete portal.

The uncertainty has been stressful, especially as I am trying to settle into a new country and understand the process while waiting for updates.


I would be grateful if anyone could share their experience or offer guidance on the following questions:

• Has anyone experienced a situation where an incomplete online application continued to generate messages after a lawyer submitted a new refugee claim?
• Could an incomplete application affect or delay a separate claim submitted by a lawyer, or would IRCC normally treat them as separate records?
• How can I independently confirm that IRCC has received and properly recorded my lawyer’s submission?
• How long did you wait for your medical examination instructions after submitting your BOC?
• What steps should I take to clarify the status of my work permit application and determine whether I need to submit a separate application?
• Is there a particular IRCC office or official process I should use to resolve a possible duplicate or incomplete portal issue?

I understand that every refugee claim is different and that processing times can vary. I am not asking anyone to predict the outcome of my claim. I am simply looking for practical advice on how to verify that my application is properly recorded and what steps I can take while waiting.


Thank you for taking the time to read my post. Any helpful information from people with similar experiences, knowledgeable forum members, or regulated Canadian immigration professionals would be greatly appreciated.

Since u already have a lawyer, I’d suggest asking them to confirm that ur refugee claim was successfully submitted and that u have an official Acknowledgement of Claim.
Regarding ur medical exam, IRCC says instructions are normally sent once a claim is complete. Since you submitted your BOC in August and still haven’t received medical instructions, ask your lawyer to follow up with IRCC and confirm whether anything is outstanding.

For your work permit, check whether you requested one when the claim was submitted. IRCC says a work permit can be issued after the claim is found eligible, the medical exam is passed, and biometrics are completed. If you didn’t request one initially, ask your lawyer whether you need to apply separately.
You can also report the portal issue through the official IRCC web form:
https://www.ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1551&top=11
Official information about what happens after submitting a refugee claim:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/asylum/in-canada/after-apply.html

 

[brokerdeal1970]

Lol first off thanks you made my day . Its very funny your post you sais that just just came 2 /3 months ago and expect all these very quickly
Dont you read / know about the situation here? And you said you fear persecution mr mohammed in your Muslim country because of your sexual orientation. You know that you have to prove that and have very strong evidence . If you just use it like a shortcut in order to stay this game is all finish . I am proudly gay and many people have abused the system that now canada has tightened up its immigration /asylum Policy because bogus screwed it up .
And you know bow long is it to go to a hearing or get work permit? It takes months if not years this is in case you are genuine .


Just the fact that You have been misinformed about canada and how is the current immigration policy shows that you were thinking to establish here easily by claiming asylum
You will be denied i assure you .
My free advise to you is to find other paths to stay.

 

[Mohamed Tarawally]

Lol first off thanks you made my day . Its very funny your post you sais that just just came 2 /3 months ago and expect all these very quickly
Dont you read / know about the situation here? And you said you fear persecution mr mohammed in your Muslim country because of your sexual orientation. You know that you have to prove that and have very strong evidence . If you just use it like a shortcut in order to stay this game is all finish . I am proudly gay and many people have abused the system that now canada has tightened up its immigration /asylum Policy because bogus screwed it up .
And you know bow long is it to go to a hearing or get work permit? It takes months if not years this is in case you are genuine .


Just the fact that You have been misinformed about canada and how is the current immigration policy shows that you were thinking to establish here easily by claiming asylum
You will be denied i assure you .
My free advise to you is to find other paths to stay.

Thank you for your comment and for sharing your opinion. I understand your concerns, and I respect the fact that you are proudly gay and have your own understanding of the Canadian asylum system.


However, I think it is unfair to assume that someone is abusing the system simply because they are asking questions about delays or seeking advice after arriving in Canada. I never expected the process to be easy or immediate. My concern is that I have already submitted my refugee claim through my lawyer, including my Basis of Claim, and I am trying to understand the next steps and resolve the delays I am experiencing.


I understand that a refugee claim must be assessed based on the facts, evidence, and applicable law. I am prepared to follow the proper process and let the relevant authorities assess my case. I also understand that not every claim will be accepted.


I came here seeking guidance and assistance, not to claim that Canada owes me anything or that I deserve special treatment. There is a difference between asking for help understanding an immigration process and abusing that process.


I respect your opinion, but I would appreciate it if you did not prejudge my case or assure me that I will be denied without knowing my circumstances.


Thank you for your advice. I will continue to work with my lawyer and follow the appropriate legal process.

 

[Mohamed Tarawally]

Since u already have a lawyer, I’d suggest asking them to confirm that ur refugee claim was successfully submitted and that u have an official Acknowledgement of Claim.
Regarding ur medical exam, IRCC says instructions are normally sent once a claim is complete. Since you submitted your BOC in August and still haven’t received medical instructions, ask your lawyer to follow up with IRCC and confirm whether anything is outstanding.

For your work permit, check whether you requested one when the claim was submitted. IRCC says a work permit can be issued after the claim is found eligible, the medical exam is passed, and biometrics are completed. If you didn’t request one initially, ask your lawyer whether you need to apply separately.
You can also report the portal issue through the official IRCC web form:
https://www.ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=1551&top=11
Official information about what happens after submitting a refugee claim:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/asylum/in-canada/after-apply.html

Thank you so much for taking the time to explain this and share the official links. I really appreciate your advice.


My BOC was submitted in August, and my lawyer has been handling my claim. However, I have not yet received my medical examination instructions, work permit, or SIN, and I have been experiencing difficulties accessing my IRCC portal to check my application status.


The delay has been stressful because I am still trying to settle into life in Canada. I will follow up with my lawyer to confirm that my claim is complete, whether anything is outstanding, and whether my work permit request was submitted.


Thank you again for your guidance and for pointing me in the right direction. I genuinely appreciate the support.

 

[Copingwithlife]

Thank you so much for taking the time to explain this and share the official links. I really appreciate your advice.


My BOC was submitted in August, and my lawyer has been handling my claim. However, I have not yet received my medical examination instructions, work permit, or SIN, and I have been experiencing difficulties accessing my IRCC portal to check my application status.


The delay has been stressful because I am still trying to settle into life in Canada. I will follow up with my lawyer to confirm that my claim is complete, whether anything is outstanding, and whether my work permit request was submitted.


Thank you again for your guidance and for pointing me in the right direction. I genuinely appreciate the support.

Who would have thought that we have non stop flights to Sierra Leone

 

[appwarez]

Lol first off thanks you made my day . Its very funny your post you sais that just just came 2 /3 months ago and expect all these very quickly
Dont you read / know about the situation here? And you said you fear persecution mr mohammed in your Muslim country because of your sexual orientation. You know that you have to prove that and have very strong evidence . If you just use it like a shortcut in order to stay this game is all finish . I am proudly gay and many people have abused the system that now canada has tightened up its immigration /asylum Policy because bogus screwed it up .
And you know bow long is it to go to a hearing or get work permit? It takes months if not years this is in case you are genuine .


Just the fact that You have been misinformed about canada and how is the current immigration policy shows that you were thinking to establish here easily by claiming asylum
You will be denied i assure you .
My free advise to you is to find other paths to stay.

we shouldn’t assume someone’s claim is genuine or false. Every claim is assessed on its own facts and evidence. If someone fears persecution because of their sexual orientation, they must explain their circumstances honestly and provide the evidence available to support their claim. The decision is for the IRB to make, not for us to predict on a forum. It’s always better to encourage people to get proper legal advice, understand the process, and be truthful in their applications rather than tell them in advance that they will be accepted or refused.

 

[brokerdeal1970]

Thank you for your comment and for sharing your opinion. I understand your concerns, and I respect the fact that you are proudly gay and have your own understanding of the Canadian asylum system.


However, I think it is unfair to assume that someone is abusing the system simply because they are asking questions about delays or seeking advice after arriving in Canada. I never expected the process to be easy or immediate. My concern is that I have already submitted my refugee claim through my lawyer, including my Basis of Claim, and I am trying to understand the next steps and resolve the delays I am experiencing.


I understand that a refugee claim must be assessed based on the facts, evidence, and applicable law. I am prepared to follow the proper process and let the relevant authorities assess my case. I also understand that not every claim will be accepted.


I came here seeking guidance and assistance, not to claim that Canada owes me anything or that I deserve special treatment. There is a difference between asking for help understanding an immigration process and abusing that process.


I respect your opinion, but I would appreciate it if you did not prejudge my case or assure me that I will be denied without knowing my circumstances.


Thank you for your advice. I will continue to work with my lawyer and follow the appropriate legal process.

Thanks for your kind answer . But its best to tell you facts according to my experience here as a former refugee who resides here for 14 years.

Lets put aside your claim. If you assume that because you hired a lawyer and submitted documents on his behalf that would make it easier you are really tripping my friend because it is the same . I know people in windsor the city bordering michigan who applied and didnt get a work permit even after 5 months let alone the sin and rest .
Unfortunately many people including you are misinformed about the immigration process lately .
If you came from the states because youre illegal over there and fear deportation and assume here it is easier you are really misinformed as i said . Its been a couple of years the system is very slow and now they are very strict rules and thorough checking in regards with your claim , background and it takes a long time some people dont go to a hearing even after many months this is why i am telling you if your case is genuine prepare yourself for a very long journey just for the permanent residency lets say you are accepted it will take 4-5 years including your hearing date , decision etc

This is not to prejudge you but to prevent you find yourself in the worst scenario especially if you have no funds .


Sadly many people abused the generosity of canada , and most applicants just apply in order to stay here because they have no other options and if you are found abusing it now you can be barred from entering canada for 5 years .

Even for other routes besides refugee like entry express and others now you must be very qualified, i am giving you an image in case you entered here and just think things are easier than you think

Feel free to ask me anything

 

[Mohamed Tarawally]

Thanks for your kind answer . But its best to tell you facts according to my experience here as a former refugee who resides here for 14 years.

Lets put aside your claim. If you assume that because you hired a lawyer and submitted documents on his behalf that would make it easier you are really tripping my friend because it is the same . I know people in windsor the city bordering michigan who applied and didnt get a work permit even after 5 months let alone the sin and rest .
Unfortunately many people including you are misinformed about the immigration process lately .
If you came from the states because youre illegal over there and fear deportation and assume here it is easier you are really misinformed as i said . Its been a couple of years the system is very slow and now they are very strict rules and thorough checking in regards with your claim , background and it takes a long time some people dont go to a hearing even after many months this is why i am telling you if your case is genuine prepare yourself for a very long journey just for the permanent residency lets say you are accepted it will take 4-5 years including your hearing date , decision etc

This is not to prejudge you but to prevent you find yourself in the worst scenario especially if you have no funds .


Sadly many people abused the generosity of canada , and most applicants just apply in order to stay here because they have no other options and if you are found abusing it now you can be barred from entering canada for 5 years .

Even for other routes besides refugee like entry express and others now you must be very qualified, i am giving you an image in case you entered here and just think things are easier than you think

Feel free to ask me anything

Thank you for sharing your experience, and I respect the fact that you have lived in Canada for 14 years as a former refugee.


However, I came here to ask a genuine question about my current immigration situation and seek advice from people who may understand the process or have experienced something similar. Unfortunately, instead of focusing on my question, you seem to be judging me without knowing my story or the circumstances that brought me here.


I never said that hiring a lawyer would make my process easier or that Canada’s immigration system is a walk in the park. I simply explained my situation and asked for guidance on the delays I am currently experiencing.


People who understood the purpose of my question have shared helpful advice, and that is the essence of this platform: to ask questions, learn from others, and receive guidance without being judged.


I respect your opinion and appreciate the information you have shared, but please do not assume you know my intentions or circumstances without knowing my story. I came here seeking advice, not to be judged. Thank you.

 

[brokerdeal1970]

Thank you for sharing your experience, and I respect the fact that you have lived in Canada for 14 years as a former refugee.


However, I came here to ask a genuine question about my current immigration situation and seek advice from people who may understand the process or have experienced something similar. Unfortunately, instead of focusing on my question, you seem to be judging me without knowing my story or the circumstances that brought me here.


I never said that hiring a lawyer would make my process easier or that Canada’s immigration system is a walk in the park. I simply explained my situation and asked for guidance on the delays I am currently experiencing.


People who understood the purpose of my question have shared helpful advice, and that is the essence of this platform: to ask questions, learn from others, and receive guidance without being judged.


I respect your opinion and appreciate the information you have shared, but please do not assume you know my intentions or circumstances without knowing my story. I came here seeking advice, not to be judged. Thank you.

I also thank you for talking kindly and i already answered your questions with facts rather than sharing illusions

Let me repeat, you probably take it personal but its up to you !! Answer below again :

Hearing date can take many months let alone decision

Work permit : the same , could exceed 6 months currently and sometimes more i have a friend in windsor who crossed from usa who was illegal because he feared deportation and he never got it its been 6 months now he gave up and quit

Health card : the same , you have to pay from your pocket

Sin : same

Is it clear ? I know cases in ontario and in windsor who came there not long before you

Actually im In quebec processing times are even longer

Otherwise your lawyer have been lying to you !

My friendly recommendation to you is you can stay if you have funds to survive and then have strong evidence in regards with your claim .

You will thank me later

 

[appwarez]

Thanks for your kind answer . But its best to tell you facts according to my experience here as a former refugee who resides here for 14 years.

Lets put aside your claim. If you assume that because you hired a lawyer and submitted documents on his behalf that would make it easier you are really tripping my friend because it is the same . I know people in windsor the city bordering michigan who applied and didnt get a work permit even after 5 months let alone the sin and rest .
Unfortunately many people including you are misinformed about the immigration process lately .
If you came from the states because youre illegal over there and fear deportation and assume here it is easier you are really misinformed as i said . Its been a couple of years the system is very slow and now they are very strict rules and thorough checking in regards with your claim , background and it takes a long time some people dont go to a hearing even after many months this is why i am telling you if your case is genuine prepare yourself for a very long journey just for the permanent residency lets say you are accepted it will take 4-5 years including your hearing date , decision etc

This is not to prejudge you but to prevent you find yourself in the worst scenario especially if you have no funds .


Sadly many people abused the generosity of canada , and most applicants just apply in order to stay here because they have no other options and if you are found abusing it now you can be barred from entering canada for 5 years .

Even for other routes besides refugee like entry express and others now you must be very qualified, i am giving you an image in case you entered here and just think things are easier than you think

Feel free to ask me anything

Refugee process can be lengthy and unpredictable, and that applicants should prepare financially and emotionally for the challenges ahead. At the same time, every person's circumstances and claim are different,

 

[canuck78]

I also thank you for talking kindly and i already answered your questions with facts rather than sharing illusions

Let me repeat, you probably take it personal but its up to you !! Answer below again :

Hearing date can take many months let alone decision

Work permit : the same , could exceed 6 months currently and sometimes more i have a friend in windsor who crossed from usa who was illegal because he feared deportation and he never got it its been 6 months now he gave up and quit

Health card : the same , you have to pay from your pocket

Sin : same

Is it clear ? I know cases in ontario and in windsor who came there not long before you

Actually im In quebec processing times are even longer

Otherwise your lawyer have been lying to you !

My friendly recommendation to you is you can stay if you have funds to survive and then have strong evidence in regards with your claim .

You will thank me later

Hearing in months? It is now years for most.

 

[canuck78]

Hello everyone,


I am seeking advice and guidance from anyone who has experience with the Canadian refugee claim process, particularly those who have experienced delays or issues with their IRCC portal.


I am currently in Windsor, Ontario, and I would appreciate hearing from people who have gone through a similar situation.


Here is a summary of my situation:


I came to Canada in July 2026 and subsequently decided to make a refugee claim because I fear returning to my home country, Sierra Leone, due to persecution and discrimination related to my sexual orientation.


I retained an immigration lawyer to assist me with my refugee claim. Before hiring my lawyer, I had independently started an application through an online portal, but I did not complete or submit that application.


My lawyer later opened a new portal/application and submitted my refugee claim on my behalf. My understanding is that the lawyer is handling the application that is currently active.


My Basis of Claim (BOC) was submitted on August 15, 2026. I also submitted a correction to IRCC on August 27, 2026.


However, I have continued to experience uncertainty about the status of my application.


My main concerns are:

1. The earlier incomplete application: I continue to receive messages relating to the portal I started myself but never completed. I am concerned that this earlier application may be causing confusion or affecting the application submitted by my lawyer.
2. Medical appointment: As of October 10, 2026, I have not yet received my immigration medical examination appointment or instructions. I would like to know whether this is normal at this stage of the process.
3. Application status: I have been unable to obtain clear confirmation of the current status of my claim through the online portal. I am concerned about whether the application submitted by my lawyer has been properly received and linked to my file.
4. Work permit and SIN: I have not yet received my work permit or Social Insurance Number (SIN). This has made it difficult for me to plan my life, look for employment, and become financially independent in Canada.
5. Communication with IRCC: I have already tried to raise my concerns with IRCC, but I am still looking for clarity about my application and the earlier incomplete portal.

The uncertainty has been stressful, especially as I am trying to settle into a new country and understand the process while waiting for updates.


I would be grateful if anyone could share their experience or offer guidance on the following questions:

• Has anyone experienced a situation where an incomplete online application continued to generate messages after a lawyer submitted a new refugee claim?
• Could an incomplete application affect or delay a separate claim submitted by a lawyer, or would IRCC normally treat them as separate records?
• How can I independently confirm that IRCC has received and properly recorded my lawyer’s submission?
• How long did you wait for your medical examination instructions after submitting your BOC?
• What steps should I take to clarify the status of my work permit application and determine whether I need to submit a separate application?
• Is there a particular IRCC office or official process I should use to resolve a possible duplicate or incomplete portal issue?

I understand that every refugee claim is different and that processing times can vary. I am not asking anyone to predict the outcome of my claim. I am simply looking for practical advice on how to verify that my application is properly recorded and what steps I can take while waiting.


Thank you for taking the time to read my post. Any helpful information from people with similar experiences, knowledgeable forum members, or regulated Canadian immigration professionals would be greatly appreciated.

The whole system is incredibly overwhelmed so would prepare for many things to take a very long time even if things go smoothly which they often don’t. There are 300k+ applications in line ahead of you with the ability to process less than 100k annually. Would send an email to confirm that you potentially have 2 files but both likely haven’t gotten to a stage where they are in the system in order for you to determine whether there is an issue. Would follow-up in 6+ months and coordinate with your lawyer. If relying on legal aid then they may not have time to follow-up on issues like this and you will have to try to confirm with IRB. Things like work permits can have a wide range of processing times although it should be faster than a few years ago when it could take a year to get a work permit. In general your goal should be to try to become as self-sufficient and prepare yourself to be incredibly patient you may not hear from IRB for a full year at times.