Canada has taken a significant step in providing humanitarian assistance to Palestinians affected by the conflict in Gaza by introducing a new temporary residency pathway for extended family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This initiative, announced by Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), on January 9, aims to offer a temporary haven for Palestinians directly impacted by the Gaza conflict who have family ties to Canada.
Under this new temporary residency pathway, eligible family members including spouses, common-law partners, children, grandchildren, siblings, parents, and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents are provided with an opportunity to seek temporary refuge in Canada. Additionally, immediate family members such as spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, and dependent children of dependent children are also considered eligible for this program.
Once eligible individuals arrive in Canada, they can apply for a fee-free study permit or an open work permit to sustain themselves while the crisis in Israel and the Palestinian Territories persists. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on affected individuals and enable them to maintain their standard of living in Canada during these challenging times.
Beneficiaries of this program will also receive essential support services, including access to three months of health coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program to address any urgent medical needs upon their arrival. Settlement services such as language training and assistance in integrating into the local community and job market will also be provided to help individuals adapt to their new environment.
To facilitate inquiries and applications related to this extraordinary measure, the IRCC has established a dedicated service channel accessible at 613-321-4243. This channel is available to individuals both in Canada and abroad, with collect calls accepted.
It’s important to note that exemptions for individuals applying for temporary resident visas under this program will expire on January 9, 2025, or upon receipt and processing of a total of one thousand applications, whichever comes first. The IRCC will closely monitor program volumes and evolving conditions to ensure that Canada continues to meet the needs of the target population.
For individuals already in Canada, including Israelis and Palestinians, the Minister of Immigration announced on December 21 that they are eligible for a free open work permit and study permit. This extends the support to those already present in Canada who may require assistance during this challenging period.
Canada’s introduction of a new temporary residency pathway for Palestinians in Gaza demonstrates its commitment to humanitarian values and assisting those in need. By offering refuge to extended family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, Canada aims to alleviate the hardships faced by Palestinians affected by the conflict and provide them with a temporary sanctuary to rebuild their lives.
If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.
