Guide to IMM 5444 Refugee Travel Document Application

What Is a Refugee Travel Document?

A Refugee Travel Document (RTD) is a travel document issued by the Government of Canada to individuals who have been granted refugee protection. It is grounded in the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and serves as a substitute for a national passport for people who cannot safely obtain one from their home country.

The RTD allows protected persons to travel outside Canada and return. It is issued by IRCC and is recognized by most countries worldwide, though some countries may require additional visas for entry. The IMM 5444 is the specific application form used to request this document.

Who Is Eligible?

You are eligible for an RTD if you meet all of the following criteria:

• You are a Convention refugee or a person in need of protection as determined by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada (IRB) or IRCC
• You are physically present in Canada at the time of application
• You are a permanent resident of Canada, or you have been determined to be a protected person and have not yet obtained permanent residence
• You do not hold a valid passport from any other country

This last point is critical. If you obtain a passport from your country of nationality, it may be viewed as evidence that you have re-availed yourself of that country's protection, which could lead to cessation of your refugee status. Always consult a legal professional before obtaining or using a national passport if you hold protected person status.

Documents Required with the IMM 5444

Completed IMM 5444 Form

Fill out every section of the form. Do not leave fields blank; if a field does not apply to you, write "N/A." The form collects your personal information, details about your protected status, travel document history, and information about planned travel.

Proof of Protected Person Status

Provide evidence that you are a protected person in Canada. Acceptable documents include your Protected Person Status Document, your IRB decision letter granting refugee protection, or your Confirmation of Permanent Residence. If you were resettled through the government-assisted or privately sponsored refugee program, include relevant sponsorship documentation.

Permanent Resident Card or IMM 1000

If you are a permanent resident, include a copy of both sides of your PR card or your Record of Landing (IMM 1000). If you have not yet obtained permanent residence, include interim documentation confirming your status.

Photographs

Two photographs meeting Canadian passport photo specifications are required. Note that RTD photos follow passport specifications, not immigration application photo specifications. They must be taken within the last 12 months.

Current or Expired Travel Documents

If you have a previous RTD (expired or expiring), include it with your application. If you hold any other travel documents, include copies. This helps IRCC verify your identity and travel history.

Processing Fee

Include the applicable fee. Check the IRCC RTD page for current amounts. Payment methods depend on whether you submit online or by mail.

How to Fill Out the IMM 5444

Section A: Personal Information

Enter your full legal name exactly as it appears on your protected person documentation. Include your date of birth, place of birth, gender, and current Canadian address. If your name has changed since you received protection, provide supporting documentation such as a legal name change certificate.

Section B: Contact Information

Provide your current mailing address, telephone number, and email address. IRCC uses this information for all communication about your application, so accuracy is essential.

Section C: Immigration Status

Enter your UCI number, the date you were determined to be a protected person, and whether you are a permanent resident. Include your PR card number if applicable.

Section D: Travel Document History

List all previous travel documents you have held, including national passports, previous RTDs, or any other travel documents. Provide document numbers, dates of issue, and dates of expiry. If you have never held any travel document, indicate this clearly.

Section E: Planned Travel

If you have specific travel plans, provide destination countries, purpose of travel, and expected dates. You do not need confirmed travel plans to apply for an RTD, but providing this information can help with processing.

Section F: Declaration and Signature

Read the declaration carefully, sign the form, and date it. Your signature confirms that all information is truthful and complete.

Critical Warnings About Travel

As a protected person, you must understand the serious implications of certain travel:

• Do not travel to your country of nationality. Returning to the country from which you sought protection can be interpreted as re-availing yourself of that country's protection. This could trigger cessation proceedings and the loss of your refugee status in Canada.
• Verify that your destination accepts the RTD. Some countries do not recognize the Canadian RTD or require a separate visa for RTD holders. Confirm entry requirements before booking travel.
• Carry your PR card. Your RTD allows international travel, but your permanent resident card is what allows you to re-enter Canada by commercial carrier. Ensure both documents are valid before departure.
• Allow sufficient processing time. RTD applications can take several weeks to months. Apply well before your intended departure date.

Processing Times and Renewal

Processing times vary but generally range from several weeks to a few months. You can check current times on the IRCC website. Expedited processing may be available in urgent situations with supporting documentation.

RTDs are issued for a limited period. When yours is nearing expiration, apply for a new one using the same IMM 5444 form. Submit your expired or expiring RTD with the renewal application. Apply well before expiration, especially if you have upcoming travel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying for an RTD while holding a valid national passport, which contradicts the basis of your refugee claim
• Not including proof of protected person status
• Using photos that do not meet Canadian passport specifications
• Failing to pay the correct processing fee
• Not allowing enough processing time before planned travel
• Traveling to your country of nationality, which could result in loss of status

Getting Help

If you need assistance with the IMM 5444, you have several options. Settlement agencies across Canada provide in-person support. Legal aid organizations specializing in refugee law can advise on travel implications. The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants can help you find a licensed representative. You can also explore resources through our newcomer guides.

Related Guides

• How to Fill Out IMM 0104: Authority to Release Information
• How to Fill Out IMM 5476: Use of a Representative
• Guide to IMM 5645: Family Information Form
• Guide to IMM 5708: Visitor Visa Document Checklist
• Guide to IMM 5257: Temporary Resident Visa Application

The Refugee Travel Document is a vital resource for protected persons in Canada who need to travel internationally. By carefully completing the IMM 5444, understanding the rules around travel as a protected person, and allowing adequate processing time, you can maintain your status while staying connected to family, pursuing opportunities, and navigating the world beyond Canada's borders.