The Canadian government, under the leadership of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced a groundbreaking initiative in response to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This conflict, which began on April 15, 2023, has led to significant humanitarian concerns, prompting Canada to step forward with a solution aimed at aiding those most affected.
The Humanitarian Pathway
This new program is a family-based humanitarian pathway, specifically designed for Sudanese and non-Sudanese nationals who were residing in Sudan at the onset of the conflict. The primary objective of this pathway is to facilitate the permanent resettlement of these individuals in Canada, where they can reunite with their family members.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this program, applicants must have a direct family connection in Canada. This includes being a child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, or sibling of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The Canadian family member must agree to provide support to the applicant, aiding in their resettlement and integration into Canadian society. This support is crucial as it ensures a smoother transition for the newcomers, helping them to adapt to their new environment and become self-sufficient.
Application Process
The specifics of the application process are yet to be fully detailed on the IRCC website. However, it is expected that the process will be streamlined to facilitate quick and efficient processing of applications. This is particularly important given the urgent nature of the humanitarian crisis in Sudan and the need for rapid assistance.
Canada's Commitment to Humanitarian Aid
This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Canadian government to provide humanitarian aid and support to those affected by global conflicts. In 2023 alone, Canada has allocated over $165 million in humanitarian assistance funding to experienced partners in Sudan and neighbouring countries impacted by the crisis. This funding is directed towards providing emergency food and nutrition assistance, clean water, hygiene, sanitation, health, and protection services.
International and Regional Collaboration
Canada is not working in isolation. The country is actively collaborating with the international community and regional partners to support a peaceful resolution of the conflict in Sudan. This collaboration is crucial as it ensures a coordinated and effective response to the crisis, maximizing the impact of the assistance provided.
Minister Marc Miller's Statement
In his announcement, Minister Miller highlighted the gravity of the situation in Sudan and Canada's commitment to helping those in need. He emphasized the importance of upholding Canada's humanitarian traditions and the role this pathway will play in reuniting families and saving lives. He also acknowledged the resilience of the Sudanese people and their contributions to their communities and Canada.
Extending Canada's Humanitarian Efforts
In addition to the newly announced pathway, Canada has implemented several temporary immigration measures for Sudanese nationals. These measures are designed to provide immediate relief to those already in Canada and those who have recently fled Sudan.
Extension of Stay
Sudanese nationals currently in Canada can apply to extend their stay or change their status as a visitor, student, or temporary worker, free of charge. This provision allows individuals who may be unable to return home due to the conflict to remain in Canada safely.
Waiving of Fees
The Canadian government has waived temporary residence application fees for foreign nationals who fled Sudan with their Canadian family members. This waiver is a significant relief for those facing financial challenges due to the conflict.
Prioritizing Applications
There is a prioritization in processing temporary and permanent residence applications from individuals still in Sudan. This expedited processing is crucial for those in urgent need of safety and security.
Passport Requirements Waived
In an unprecedented move, the requirement to hold a passport or travel document to be approved for a permanent resident visa to come to Canada has been waived. This decision recognizes the challenges that many individuals face in obtaining such documents amidst the conflict.
Additional Fee Waivers
Passport and permanent resident travel document fees have been waived for citizens and permanent residents of Canada in Sudan who wish to leave. This measure further facilitates the safe exit of those wishing to escape the conflict.
Future Implications
The introduction of this humanitarian pathway and the accompanying measures represent a significant shift in Canada's approach to immigration and humanitarian aid. It sets a precedent for how nations can respond to global crises with compassion and practical support. The success of this program could influence future policies and initiatives, both within Canada and internationally, as other nations look to Canada's example in addressing similar crises.
Contact Information for Media
The announcement has garnered significant media attention, and the Minister’s Office, as well as the Communications Branch of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, have provided contact information for media inquiries. This openness to media engagement reflects the government's commitment to transparency and its desire to keep the public informed about its humanitarian efforts.
Contacts for media only:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
