Refugee appeals lawyer Canada
If your refugee claim was refused by the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB), you may have the right to appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD). At Ayodele Law, our experienced refugee appeal lawyers help individuals challenge negative decisions by preparing persuasive legal arguments and introducing compelling evidence.
What is the refugee appeals division (RAD)?
The Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) is part of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). It reviews decisions made by the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) to ensure fairness and accuracy. The RAD can:
Confirm the RPD’s refusal decision
Set aside the decision and substitute a new one granting refugee protection
Send the case back for a new hearing before a different RPD member
Unlike the Federal Court, the RAD allows written arguments and, in some cases, new evidence that was not available during the RPD hearing.
| Who Can Appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) |
|---|
| ✔Your refugee claim was refused by the Refugee Protection Division (RPD). |
| ✔You are not barred from appealing under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). |
| Who Cannot Appeal to the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) |
|---|
| ✖You are a designated foreign national. |
| ✖Your claim was withdrawn or abandoned. |
| ✖Your claim was found to have no credible basis or is manifestly unfounded. |
| ✖Your claim was made at a land border under the Safe Third Country Agreement. |
| ✖The Minister of Immigration made an application to end or cancel your protection. |
| ✖Your claim was deemed rejected under Article 1F(b) of the Refugee Convention. |
What are the refugee appeal division deadlines?
Strict filing deadlines apply:
Notice of Appeal: within 15 days of receiving your RPD reasons
Appellant’s Record: within 30 days of filing your notice
Missing these deadlines can result in an automatic dismissal. Our legal team acts quickly to preserve your right to appeal.
What is the refugee appeal process in Canada?
File Notice of Appeal – Within 15 days of receiving the RPD’s written decision
Prepare Appellant’s Record – Includes your legal arguments, affidavits, and new evidence
RAD Review – The RAD Member reviews all written submissions
Decision – The RAD may:
Allow your appeal (granting protection)
Dismiss your appeal (option to seek judicial review at the Federal Court)
Order a new RPD hearing
In limited cases, the RAD may also schedule an oral hearing, especially if new evidence is being considered.
Why Hire Ayodele Law for Your Refugee Appeal?
At Ayodele Law, we understand how life-changing a refugee appeal can be. Our team provides strategic, compassionate, and timely representation before the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD) of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB).
Our services include:
- Reviewing your RPD refusal letter and full file.
- Preparing comprehensive legal submissions and affidavits.
- Identifying legal or procedural errors in your RPD hearing.
- Presenting new, credible evidence to strengthen your case.
- Meeting all IRB deadlines and communication requirements.
We advocate for fairness, compassion, and due process—helping you secure the protection and stability you deserve in Canada.
Have a question? Contact us below.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) Refugee Appeals Division (RAD)
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No. Some claimants—such as those from designated countries or with serious inadmissibility findings—are not eligible to appeal to the RAD.
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Yes, but only if the evidence was not reasonably available at the time of your RPD hearing.
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Most RAD appeals take 6 – 12 months, depending on case complexity and IRB scheduling..
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If your appeal is allowed, you may be granted refugee protection, or your case may be sent back to the RPD for a new hearing.