Practice notice on artificial intelligence
An Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) practice notice on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in its proceedings took effect on September 7, 2026. It applies in all four divisions. In summary:
- AI must not be used to create or materially change personal evidence, such as Basis of Claim narratives, affidavits, witness statements, photos or screenshots.
- Where AI generated or materially changed other text in a document filed with the IRB, the document must include a declaration saying so and confirming that a named person reviewed it and checked any case law cited. Spelling, grammar and formatting tools do not require a declaration.
- AI-assisted translation or transcription must be disclosed.
- Legal principles and case citations must be checked against reliable sources.
- If the notice is not followed, the IRB may refuse a document or decline to rely on it, draw negative conclusions about credibility, and report or restrict counsel.
Proposed Refugee Protection Division Rules
On June 20, 2026, proposed amendments to the Refugee Protection Division Rules were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, for comment. They are not yet in force. As proposed:
- The Basis of Claim Form would be replaced by basis of claim information given to the Minister as part of a single application.
- Changes to that information would have to be received no later than five days after the claimant receives a notice to appear.
- Personal documents would be due 30 days after the claim is referred. Country condition documents would still be due 10 days before the hearing.
- A hearing date would be changed only in exceptional circumstances.
Sources: Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, Practice notice: Use of artificial intelligence in IRB proceedings; Canada Gazette, Part I, June 20, 2026, Rules Amending the Refugee Protection Division Rules
This update is general information only and is not legal advice. Rules change and every case is different. Check the official source or contact ProSeek Legal Services about your situation. Reviewed October 10, 2026.