Asylum seekers who are looking to apply for protection in Canada may be eligible to do so under the Asylum Cooperation Agreement (ACA) between Canada and the United States. This agreement, commonly referred to as the ABC Agreement, is designed to provide a framework for cooperation between the two countries in managing asylum claims by individuals who pass through one country to reach the other.

Under the ABC Agreement, asylum seekers must first apply for protection in the country where they first arrive. If they arrive in the United States first, they must make their claim there before applying in Canada. Conversely, if they arrive in Canada first, they must make their claim there before applying in the United States.

To be eligible to apply for asylum under the ABC Agreement, an individual must meet certain criteria. Firstly, they must be a citizen or national of a country other than Canada or the United States. Additionally, they must have passed through the other country on their way to Canada or the United States. Finally, they must be able to demonstrate that they would face persecution or harm if returned to their country of origin.

It is important to note that applying for asylum can be a complex and time-consuming process. As such, it is strongly recommended that individuals seeking protection under the ABC Agreement seek legal advice and guidance from an experienced immigration lawyer.

If an individual is found to be eligible to apply for asylum under the ABC Agreement, they will be required to attend an interview with a government official to provide additional information about their claim. They may also be required to provide supporting documentation, such as medical reports or evidence of persecution.

Once an individual has applied for asylum under the ABC Agreement, they will be subject to the same legal process as other asylum seekers in Canada or the United States. This includes the possibility of being detained while their claim is processed, as well as the potential for their claim to be denied and for them to be deported to their home country.

In conclusion, the ABC Agreement provides a mechanism for cooperation between Canada and the United States in managing asylum claims by individuals who pass through one country to reach the other. However, it is important to remember that the process of applying for asylum can be complicated and challenging, and that seeking legal advice is strongly recommended.