By: Karina Juma, Articling Student, Heron Law Offices
Beginning March 25, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will introduce a new photo identification document for refugee claimants called a Refugee Protection Identity Document (RPID).
Access Provided by the RPID
Refugee claimants can use the new RPID to access health coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) and certain provincial benefits, depending on province of residence.
Differences Between RPID and RPCD
The RPID is replacing the current Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD). Unlike the RPCD, the RPID will be bilingual for easier use across Canada and will exclude certain details, such as a claimant’s eligibility decision and their sex or gender identifier.
Replacing Expired RPCDs
Claimants with valid RCPDs can continue using these documents until they expire and/or are phased out.
As IRCC announced in August 2024, expired RCPDs will no longer be valid starting April 1, 2025. Claimants with expired RCPDs can apply to renew or to replace lost, destroyed or stolen RCPDs on IRCC’s website.
If you need assistance with renewing your RPCD or have questions about its validity, contact Heron Law Offices today for a consultation.
