In Canada, the terms “refugee” and “asylum seeker” are used broadly to address newcomer refugees and are often used interchangeably in service delivery for refugee claimants, but they can be different when it comes to immigration and protection in Canada.
Government Assisted Refugees (GAR) are individuals who have been recognized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or the Canadian government as needing protection due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on factors like race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. They usually go through a vetting process before arriving in Canada, often through resettlement programs. Once granted refugee status, they can settle in Canada and access various support services.
At Wesley, we have two programs dedicated to helping GARs arriving in the Hamilton and Brantford area. Our Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) provides support to individuals and families referred through Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the first 4-6 weeks after their arrival in Canada. Settlement includes temporary housing and support with documentation, healthcare, and education.
Asylum seekers are individuals who arrive in Canada seeking protection but have not yet received official refugee status. They may arrive at a port of entry or make a claim from within Canada. Asylum seekers must navigate a legal process to demonstrate their need for protection, which can include hearings and interviews. While their claims are being processed, they may have limited access to resources and support compared to recognized refugees.
We have recently introduced a new Asylum Seekers Assistance Program (ASAP), funded by the City of Hamilton and in collaboration with Good Shepperd and Refuge Community Health in Hamilton; we support asylum seekers to get them out of emergency shelters while their claims are being processed. With transitional housing, resettlement assistance, and employment support, asylum seekers can have a smoother transition into their new lives in Canada.
In summary, while both groups seek safety from persecution, GAR refugees have been formally recognized and granted status, whereas asylum seekers may be granted refugee status after their claims are evaluated in Canada. At Wesley, we work hard to support as many people as possible by creating a safe and comfortable transition start in Canada.