Updates to the Pre-Removal Risk Assessment for the Nagorno Karabakh region of Azerbaijan
November 9, 2024
In recent years, the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan has been a focal point of concern regarding the safety and security of its inhabitants. Against this backdrop, the Canadian government has announced significant changes to the Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA) process for individuals from this region. These alterations aim to provide better avenues for protection and assessment for those facing potential risks upon return.
Effective from March 15, 2023, to March 14, 2024, individuals from the Nagorno-Karabakh region who received a negative final decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada or the Federal Court during this period may now be eligible to apply for a PRRA. Additionally, those who received a final PRRA decision from IRCC within the same timeframe may also qualify.
Typically, individuals facing negative decisions are required to wait 12 months before reapplying for a PRRA. However, recognizing the dynamic nature of conditions in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, the Canadian government has made exceptions to this rule. The Canada Border Services Agency will provide eligible individuals with the necessary guidance to initiate their PRRA application if they are currently under an enforceable removal order.
It’s essential for applicants to ensure their PRRA application remains updated and to promptly inform IRCC of any changes. However, meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee a favorable outcome. Each case will continue to be assessed on its individual merits, with IRCC officers evaluating the provided information diligently.
For individuals who receive a final negative decision after March 14, 2024, the standard 12-month waiting period will apply. This decision is grounded in the understanding that recent changes in country conditions would have been considered during previous refugee claim assessments or PRRA processes.
The adjustments to the PRRA process represent a concerted effort by the Canadian government to address the specific concerns of individuals hailing from the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. By providing a more nuanced approach to assessing risks and eligibility, these changes aim to uphold Canada’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.