Step 1: Receive the Notice of Appeal


The Minister must send a Notice of Appeal to the IAD and to you within 30 days of the Immigration Division’s decision.

It is important to keep all contact information up to date. Use the Notification of Client Contact Information form to tell the IAD if it changes.

Representation at the IAD

Extra help with the process for children and people with mental health concerns

You or your counsel must tell the IAD if:

  • you are under 18 years of age, or
  • you are 18 or older but not able to understand what your hearing is about.

The IAD can then appoint a designated representative for you. A designated representative is not the same as a counsel. A designated representative is a person who is responsible for making decisions in your best interests. They will also explain the hearing process to you. See Designated representatives for more information.

Extra help with the process for vulnerable persons

Some people need special help with the appeal process because they:

  • have gone through trauma
  • have a physical or mental illness
  • are older and frail or ill, and this is causing trouble with understanding or taking part in the process.

A person in this situation is called a vulnerable person. If you or your counsel think that you may be a vulnerable person, contact the IAD office that is dealing with your case. You will find the contact information in all letters from the IAD. You may receive accommodations, including changes in procedures.

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