I'm scared I could be deported if I test positive...

I'm scared I could be deported if I test positive...

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It's normal to feel worried and confused about the immigration process and how being HIV-positive might impact your application to visit, study, work, or live in Canada.

Canada used to have a policy that banned folks with HIV from coming in, but they lifted this in 2016. Still, the immigration and refugee system can be complicated and confusing for people living with HIV.

To read up on how to navigate the process described in 5 key tips, check out our blog post.  Also, the essential links to organizations and agencies posted below, can potentially help, no matter what stage you're at.

The Canadian immigration and refugee system can be complicated and confusing for people living with HIV.‍
David Este
Professor Emeritus of Social Work, University of Calgary

Yet, Canada is a compassionate and welcoming country, and you should feel free to chase your dream of immigrating there, even with HIV.

It is normal to feel worried and confused about the immigration process and how being HIV-positive might impact your application to visit, study, work, or live in Canada.

The Canadian immigration and refugee system can be complicated and confusing for people living with HIV.

In Ontario, the HIV & AIDS Legal Clinic Ontario (HALCO) offers free legal advice and information about immigration to people with HIV. To get help or talk to a lawyer about

The Canadian immigration and refugee system can be complicated and confusing for people living with HIV.

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Applicants for Canadian citizenship are not medically screened, and having HIV does not impact eligibility. Seek medical attention for your health and well-being, and know that Canada respects and protects the human rights of all individuals living with HIV.

It is normal to feel worried and confused about the immigration process and how being HIV-positive might impact your application to visit, study, work, or live in Canada.
David Este
Professor Emeritus of Social Work

Essential Links to Learn More

The Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network
A national organization that advocates for the human rights of people living with HIV. They have a team of lawyers and advocates who can provide legal advice and support to people living with HIV who are navigating the immigration process. They also offer resources and publications on HIV and immigration.
Visit Website
HIV/AIDS Legal Clinic Ontario, HALCO
A legal clinic that specializes in HIV-related legal issues, including immigration. They provide legal advice and representation to people living with HIV and can help with the immigration process. They also offer workshops and webinars on HIV and immigration.
Visit Website
The Canadian Council for Refugees
The Canadian Council for Refugees is a Montreal-based non-governmental organization that critiques the Government of Canada's public policy regarding refugee settlement and determination, and provides consultation to Canadian immigration authorities.
Visit Website
SafeLink
Regardless of where you're at on your journey, SafeLink will help you get the equitable health care and support you deserve.
Visit Website