This article addresses the plight of asylum seekers as they resettle and entertain the hope of eventually integrating into Canadian society. Are addressed some of the major elements of the refugee determination process that have been shown to present obstacles to long term integration into the host society. In this context, culturally specific knowledge and skills constitute one level of intervention with asylum seekers. However, in addition to being aware of issues related to culture and country of origin, practitioners must understand the meaning of migration. Whether voluntary (immigrants) or involuntary (asylum seekers and refugees), migration is a painful experience and always involves a rupture with the past. Social work can be instrumental in a process that serves to rebuild social bonds.