What is a refugee protection identity document and when will I get one?

The refugee protection identity document (RPID) (formerly the refugee protection claimant document [RPCD]) confirms

• you made a refugee (asylum) claim in Canada
• whether you’re eligible for health coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)

The RPID doesn’t explain the conditions or length of your IFHP coverage. Your doctor should always confirm your coverage with our claims administrator.

We give you an RPID after we determine your claim is eligible to be referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.

In some cases, we also give you an RPID if you’re not eligible to make a refugee claim but you’re eligible to apply for a pre-removal risk assessment.

You may also be able to use the RPID to confirm your identity when applying for certain provincial benefits.

What does an RPID look like?

RPIDs may have

• a digital photo
• a physical photo with a laminate covering
• an immigration official’s signature or initials near the physical photo
• a CBSA or an IRCC stamp on the laminate photo cover (for physical photos only)