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What to know about a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment


The risk of deportation or removal can be terrifying. Under these circumstances, preparation can be crucial in protecting your status. 

For instance, you should know what to expect if the removal process is underway and you learn that you are eligible for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA).

Preparing for your PRRA

If your PRRA application is approved, you may stay in Canada. A rejected application means that removal orders will be back in effect, and you (or whoever is facing removal) will need to leave Canada. With such incredibly high stakes, diligent preparation is crucial. 

Upon learning from a Canada Border Service Agency that you are eligible for PRRA, you will need to act quickly. If you receive the application form and instruction guide in person, you have 15 days to complete and submit the form. If you receive the information via mail, you have 22 days to complete and submit the form.

Your removal orders are temporarily suspended during this process as long as you meet these deadlines. 

That said, there are circumstances where you must abide by a 12-month waiting period. Your lawyer or the CBSA can explain these situations.

When completing the PRRA application, you must include truthful information regarding the risks you might face if you leave Canada. Government officials will be looking for material evidence that you are at risk of:

  • Persecution
  • Torture
  • Cruel and unusual punishment
  • Death

Thus, submit as much information as possible, including a letter explaining your situation and any documents supporting your fears. Retaining this information can be crucial if you are an immigrant, even if you are not currently facing removal.

Mistakes to avoid during this process

Throughout this application process, some mistakes can jeopardize your claim. Such mistakes include:

  • Leaving Canada
  • Engaging in criminal behaviour
  • Violating any permits you may have
  • Submitting inaccurate or misleading information
  • Missing deadlines

Avoiding these missteps can keep your application – and your efforts to stay in Canada – on track.

This process can be intimidating, and eligibility can be confusing. However, you can work with a lawyer to complete your application and submit it properly.