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Support for asylum claimants

Details about emergency shelters, housing, employment support, local resources, and our asylum claimant response.

An asylum claimant is someone who has requested refugee protection in Canada, either at a port of entry or from within the country. Many arrive with limited resources, no housing, and few community connections.

Unlike Government-Assisted Refugees (GARs) who have status with the Canadian government before arriving in the country and are on a path to permanent residency in Canada, asylum claimants make refugee claims after arriving in the country and need to have their claims reviewed by a tribunal to determine whether they can remain in Canada on humanitarian grounds.

Asylum claimants are not covered by major Canadian government resettlement programs and do not receive direct funding from the Government of Canada. Many turn to local municipalities and service managers for help.

Emergency shelter program

If you’re an asylum claimant in need of temporary housing and essential support services, call the Asylum Claimant Shelter Central Intake Line at 647-368-5880.

Walk-ins are not permitted.

Call the Central Intake Line before visiting the Peel Reception Centre or any of Peel’s hotel sites.

Emergency shelter program eligibility

Clients who have submitted an asylum claim and are waiting for:

  • Confirmation of eligibility
  • A work permit
  • An interview with the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB)
  • IRB decision letter

To confirm eligibility, you must provide verification of your asylum claim at intake.

What asylum claimant locations offer

  • Large congregate setting to support single individuals, couples and couples with adult children 16 years and older in Mississauga at the Peel Reception Centre.
  • Hotel room for families with children under the age of 16 in Mississauga and Brampton.
  • Accommodations for up to 90 days.
  • Basic needs including 3 meals and snacks, showers, laundry facilities, and prayer rooms.
  • Support to help you navigate complex systems and to successfully continue your Canadian journey. This includes immigration and settlement services, housing and income support.