1613658 (Refugee)

This matter concerned an application for a Protection visa by a citizen of China. The applicant claimed he feared persecution based on his religion, specifically his adherence to Yiguan Dao, and also alleged political opinion stemming from an employment dispute. The decision under review affirmed the delegate's refusal to grant the visa.

The Tribunal was required to determine whether the applicant had a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of religion or political opinion, or whether he faced a real risk of significant harm if returned to China, thereby meeting the criteria for complementary protection. This involved assessing the credibility of the applicant's claims and the evidence provided in light of relevant country information and policy guidelines.

The Tribunal found the applicant's evidence to be inconsistent and lacking in credibility, particularly concerning his claims of religious persecution and the alleged employment dispute. It considered the applicant's stated religious affiliation and the country information regarding the Yiguan Dao religion in China. The Tribunal concluded that there was no substantial ground for believing that the applicant would suffer significant harm, nor did he have a well-founded fear of persecution, as required for the grant of a Protection visa. Consequently, the Tribunal affirmed the delegate's decision.