The Government of Canada has established a program to support human rights defenders seeking asylum. This initiative is designed to provide protection and resettlement opportunities for individuals who are at risk due to their efforts to defend and promote human rights. How it works: Identification: Human rights defenders who face serious threats in their home countries are identified through various channels, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international partners, and other credible sources. Assessment: Each case is carefully evaluated to confirm the individual's status as a human rights defender and the level of risk they face. Referral: Qualifying individuals are referred to the Canadian government for possible resettlement. Application and Processing: The Canadian immigration authorities process the applications, ensuring all necessary security and eligibility checks are completed. Resettlement: Once approved, human rights defenders and their immediate families are provided with resettlement assistance in Canada. This includes help with travel arrangements, initial accommodation, and integration into Canadian society. This program underscores Canada's commitment to human rights by offering a safe haven to those who have risked their lives advocating for justice and equality.

Volunteers at Iranian Justice Collective assist applicants in preparing their resettlement applications. Additionally, we collaborate with other organizations to identify and access available programs tailored for human rights activists seeking asylum.

IJC's dedicated team of volunteers is here to offer guidance and support, addressing any queries or concerns you might have regarding the process, required forms, and necessary steps to craft a strong case in fluent English for applicants. IJC volunteers are trained to assist you in filling out application forms and preparing your submission. It's important to note that typically, applicants are required to submit their own applications directly to the relevant programs. In certain cases, requested by some organizations, IJC has been approached to endorse applications and submit cases on behalf of the applicants. However, it is essential to emphasize that any actions carried out by IJC are always done in consultation with the explicit consent of the applicants involved. Our mission is to ensure that you receive the necessary assistance and guidance throughout the resettlement process, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

The work at IJCollective is purely voluntary. Volunteers dedicate their time and effort to assist applicants without any financial compensation, driven by their commitment to supporting human rights and aiding asylum seekers.

The process of receiving asylum through this program is highly competitive and can be quite lengthy, often taking an average of two years to complete. Given the high volume of applications and the stringent evaluation criteria, the likelihood of successfully receiving asylum is relatively slim. For example, in 2022, the Protect Defenders program had only 250 available spots for all asylum seekers worldwide, with only a handful of spots specifically allocated for Iranian human rights activists seeking asylum for submitting their applications. It’s important for applicants to be aware of these challenges and prepare accordingly.

If you are a human right activist seeking asylum seeker or know someone who is, send an email to info@ijcollective.com with brief information about the case. Our volunteers will reach out to you to fill out the application and prepare it for submission.

Volunteers at IJCollective assist applicants in preparing their applications for submission. Applicants have the option to submit their applications directly. However, some organizations only accept applications submitted by trusted entities such as IJCollective. In these cases, IJCollective can submit the application on the applicant's behalf.

The process of refugee resettlement is long and sometimes it takes years. From submission to getting updates from UNHCR or other programs would take at least 3 months. The whole process may take up to 2 years.

After you contact info@ijcollective.com , our volunteers will contact you to collect more information. They will inform you if you need to submit any documents.

No, there is no cost associated with applying for resettlement through IJCollective. Our services are free of charge for asylum seekers.

Once you submit your application through IJCollective, our volunteers will review it and work with you to ensure all necessary information and documents are included. They will then help you to submit the application to the appropriate organizations for further processing.

Yes, you can still apply for resettlement through IJCollective even if you are residing in another country. The only country from which you cannot apply for refugee resettlement is your home country. Additionally if you are already on a safe soil, you cannot apply for resettlement in Canada.

The acceptance of an application for resettlement in Canada is determined by various organizations that assist the Canadian Government. While IJCollective works in close association with these organizations, we do not exert control or authority over the selection process or its duration. Our role is to assist applicants in finding a suitable program that corresponds with their individual case and prepare a strong application, yet it is important to note that the final decision rests with the organizations external to IJC.

Please be aware that IJC does not have authority or control over the selection process. Our role is to assist asylum seekers in crafting a robust application in fluent English and preparing it for submission.