IRCC recently announced that as of April 1, 2025, expired refugee protection claimant documents (RPCDs) will no longer be valid, marking the end of a pandemic-related policy under which all expired RPCDs were considered valid until further notice to avoid in-person renewal or replacement requests.
An RPCD is a photo identification card issued to refugee claimants awaiting a decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) or to individuals awaiting approval on an application for a pre-removal risk assessment (PRRA). The RPCD provides access to health coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program and to certain provincial benefits.
IRCC is no longer accepting mailed applications for RPCDs. Instead, RPCD holders can apply online via webform to renew an expired RPCD. You should only apply to renew your RPCD if: (1) it expired or will expire in less than 3 months; (2) it is lost, stolen or damaged; or (3) it contains an error.
If you need help renewing your RPCD or have questions about the validity of your RPCD, contact Heron Law Offices today for a consultation.
