Ottawa, October 9, 2024—Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced important changes to the Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) process for Venezuelan nationals, responding to the worsening conditions in Venezuela following the disputed presidential elections on July 28, 2024. These changes are designed to offer additional protection to those who may face heightened risks if they were to return to their country.
Why These Changes Matter
The political and social situation in Venezuela has deteriorated significantly since the elections. The post-election unrest has resulted in mass protests, and reports of arbitrary arrests of opposition leaders and protestors have surfaced, raising serious concerns about the safety of those who might be forced to return.
In response to these developments, IRCC is offering a new opportunity for certain Venezuelan nationals to apply for a PRRA. This measure is aimed at individuals who may face persecution, torture, or other serious risks if they are deported back to Venezuela.
Who Can Apply for the PRRA?
The following groups may now be eligible to apply for a PRRA, even if they were previously not:
- Venezuelan nationals who received a negative final decision on their refugee claim from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) or the Federal Court between October 10, 2023, and October 9, 2024.
- Individuals who received a final PRRA decision from IRCC during the same period.
Under normal circumstances, people are not allowed to apply for a PRRA until 12 months after a negative decision has been made on their claim. However, in situations where there are sudden and significant changes in the conditions of their home country, IRCC can waive this waiting period, which is exactly what has been done in this case for Venezuelans.
The Application Process
If you are a Venezuelan national and currently subject to a removal order from Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will notify you if you are eligible to apply for a PRRA. It is crucial to act promptly, as this application could provide you with another chance to remain in Canada.
While applying for a PRRA, you must ensure that your application remains up-to-date. It’s essential to notify IRCC of any changes to your personal situation, as each PRRA case is evaluated individually. Being eligible to apply does not guarantee a positive outcome, as IRCC officers will make decisions based on the details of each application.
Who is Not Eligible?
Venezuelan nationals who receive a final negative decision after October 9, 2024, will not be eligible to apply for a PRRA for 12 months. This is because the new country conditions would have already been considered during their refugee claim or PRRA process.
Stay Informed and Act Now
If you are a Venezuelan national facing removal from Canada, it is crucial to stay informed about your rights and options under these new PRRA changes. While these updates provide a vital lifeline for many, it’s essential to navigate the process carefully and ensure that all documents and information are correctly submitted to improve your chances of receiving a positive decision.
If you have any questions or need assistance with the PRRA process, Di Leone Group is here to support you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help guide you through the complexities of the Canadian immigration system.