Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve with digital improvements that make processing faster, more secure, and easier to manage. One recent update comes from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. The IRB has announced that the My Case Portal will now serve as the primary platform for submitting documents for matters related to the Refugee Protection Division and the Refugee Appeal Division. This change is designed to create a more efficient and standardized process for both legal counsel and individuals involved in refugee claims and appeals. This blog explains what the transition means, who is affected, how to use the My Case Portal, and what alternative options may remain available in limited situations.
My Case Portal Now the Main Submission Channel
The main update is clear. Legal counsel and designated representatives must now submit all documents electronically through the My Case Portal for cases before the Refugee Protection Division and the Refugee Appeal Division. This portal allows users to upload documents, receive notices, and monitor case progress securely in one place. The move aligns with Canada’s focus on improving access to digital services and reducing delays that often come with paper or email-based submissions.
Changes to Previous Submission Methods
As the My Case Portal becomes the standard platform, several former document submission methods are being discontinued. Here is a summary of what has changed:
| Submission Method | Current Status |
| Email Submissions | No longer accepted for RPD and RAD |
| Canada Post Connect | Fully discontinued for all IRB divisions |
| Fax Submissions | Being phased out, no longer preferred |
| My Case Portal | Required for legal counsel and representatives |
Self-represented individuals will be phased into the system more gradually. Many will be invited to join the portal over time. If someone does not yet have portal access, they may still send documents through email for now.
Who Must Use the My Case Portal
The IRB’s direction applies primarily to:
- Legal representatives
- Lawyers
- Authorized immigration consultants
- Designated representatives appointed for vulnerable persons
These users must upload all case documents directly through My Case Portal. Self-represented claimants and appellants are encouraged to transition but will not be required to do so immediately. They may use email until they receive individualized instructions to register.
Are Alternative Submission Methods Still Possible
Alternative methods will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances, and only when specifically authorized by the IRB division handling the case. Examples may include:
- Technical issues where the portal is temporarily unavailable
- Accessibility accommodation requests
- Urgent matters where time sensitivity prevents portal access
However, these exceptions are expected to be rare. The standard expectation going forward is to use the My Case Portal exclusively.
Why This Transition Matters
The shift to the My Case Portal supports:
- Increased processing efficiency
- Reduced risk of lost documents
- Faster communication between parties and the Board
- A more modern, secure, digital case management environment
This change is particularly valuable for representatives managing multiple files at once, as it provides a centralized system for tracking case progress. The transition to the My Case Portal marks a significant modernization of Canada’s refugee claim and appeal document processes. Anyone involved in an IRB matter should ensure they are familiar with how to register, upload documents, and monitor case updates. With the portal now serving as the main channel, users can expect a more secure and consistent experience when preparing and managing their submissions.
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