Canada Introduces Temporary Relief Measures for Certain Ugandan Asylum Seekers
The Government of Canada has announced temporary immigration measures that will allow certain Ugandan nationals and former residents of Uganda to apply for a new Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA), giving some individuals another opportunity to seek protection before being removed from Canada.
The measure responds to changing conditions in Uganda and provides an exemption from the standard waiting period that normally applies before a person can request another PRRA.
What Is a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)?
A Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) is a process that allows individuals facing removal from Canada to present new evidence showing that returning to their home country could expose them to persecution, torture, a risk to life, or cruel and unusual treatment or punishment. If a PRRA application is successful, the individual may receive protected person status and become eligible to apply for permanent residence under Canada’s refugee protection system.
Who May Be Eligible?
According to the Government of Canada, the temporary measure may apply to:
- Ugandan citizens or former habitual residents of Uganda.
- Individuals who received a final negative decision on an asylum claim, PRRA application, or Federal Court judicial review.
- Those whose final negative decision was issued between June 20, 2025, and June 19, 2026.
- Individuals who meet all other eligibility requirements for a PRRA application.
Eligible individuals may be exempt from the usual 12-month restriction that normally prevents certain applicants from submitting another PRRA.
Why Has Canada Introduced These Measures?
The Government of Canada stated that the temporary policy reflects current political and social conditions in Uganda. The measure is intended to ensure that individuals who may now face increased risks have another opportunity to present updated evidence before removal proceedings continue.
What Happens Next?
Individuals who may qualify cannot automatically submit a PRRA application. Instead, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) must first notify eligible individuals that they are permitted to apply under the temporary public policy. Applicants must still satisfy all other legislative and procedural requirements before their application can be assessed.
What Does Protected Person Status Mean?
If a PRRA application is approved, the applicant may be recognized as a protected person in Canada. Protected persons may be eligible to:
- Remain in Canada.
- Apply for permanent residence.
- Access certain settlement and support services.
- Eventually qualify for Canadian citizenship after meeting the applicable legal requirements.
Each application is assessed individually based on the evidence submitted and the applicant’s personal circumstances.
What This Means for Affected Individuals
The temporary measure offers an important opportunity for eligible Ugandan nationals who previously exhausted their refugee protection options. Individuals who believe they may qualify should carefully review the eligibility requirements, gather supporting evidence, and seek professional advice before submitting any application. Because refugee and asylum matters are highly fact-specific, each case is assessed independently by Canadian immigration authorities.
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Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Eligibility for refugee protection, Pre-Removal Risk Assessments (PRRAs), or any Canadian immigration program depends on the facts of each individual case and applicable Canadian law. Immigration policies and procedures may change without notice. Readers should consult official Government of Canada resources or seek qualified immigration advice before making immigration decisions.
