You cannot file a pre-removal risk assessment whenever you like. The clock starts when the department hands you the application form, or seven days after it mails the form to the last address you gave them. That notice comes before you are removed, so keeping your address current with the department matters. A few people in special situations can apply without waiting for any notice.
(1)Subject to subsection (2) and for the purposes of subsection 112(1) of the Act, a person may apply for protection after they are given notification to that effect by the Department.
(2)A person described in section 165 or 166 may apply for protection in accordance with that section without being given notification to that effect by the Department.
(3)Notification shall be given (a)in the case of a person who is subject to a removal order that is in force, before removal from Canada; and (b)in the case of a person named in a certificate described in subsection 77(1) of the Act, when the summary of information and other evidence is filed under subsection 77(2) of the Act.
(4)Notification is given (a)when the person is given the application for protection form by hand; or (b)if the application for protection form is sent by mail, seven days after the day on which it was sent to the person at the last address provided by them to the Department.