Since September 7, 2026, an Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) practice notice governs the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in its proceedings. It applies to all four divisions, to claimants, their counsel and self-represented parties. For refugee claimants, the key point concerns the narrative.
Your narrative must come from you
The notice prohibits using AI to create or substantially change the content of the Basis of Claim (BOC) narrative, an affidavit or a witness statement. The content must be based on your own knowledge and experience. Rewriting a person's narrative with an AI tool is given as an example of what is not allowed. Creating or altering photos, videos or screenshots with AI is also prohibited.
Still allowed: spelling, grammar and formatting corrections. These minor uses do not need to be declared.
A declaration in some cases
When AI was used to create or substantially change the text of a document filed with the Board, the document must include a declaration saying so, with the name of the person who verified it. Any use of AI for translation or transcription must always be disclosed.
Possible consequences
- the document may be refused or given no weight;
- the member may draw a negative credibility finding;
- a representative may be reported to their regulatory body.
What this means for you
A narrative generated by an online tool is often easy to spot: it is generic, lacks personal details and does not sound like the person testifying at the hearing. Credibility is decided on exactly those details. Write your story in your own words, in your own language if needed, and have it translated properly. Your lawyer helps you organize it, find gaps and contradictions, and gather supporting evidence, without writing your story for you.