IRCC Offers Financial Assistance to Gazans Arriving in Canada

Palestinians leaving Gaza will soon be eligible for financial support from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) once they arrive in Canada. This financial assistance aims to help them cover essential needs such as food, shelter, and clothing while they search for work.

IRCC is expected to share more details about this program as they become available. Canada’s immigration minister, Marc Miller, highlighted the importance of this support, saying it will address the immediate challenges faced by Gazans seeking safety in Canada.

Additional Support for Gazans

Besides financial aid, Gazans coming to Canada will benefit from:

• Three months of temporary health coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program to address urgent medical needs upon arrival.
• Settlement services such as language training, help with enrolling children in school, opening a bank account, and job search assistance.
  
  

As of now, 4,245 applications have been accepted for processing through IRCC’s temporary resident pathway for Palestinian extended family members in Gaza. Out of these, 733 people have been approved to come to Canada, with 334 already having arrived as of October 5, 2024. These individuals had Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) applications in progress and were able to submit biometrics.

However, IRCC acknowledges that leaving Gaza is highly challenging due to factors beyond Canada’s control. The department is working closely with local authorities to assist extended family members of Canadians.

Canada's Humanitarian Efforts

In addition to supporting those arriving in Canada, the country has committed $140 million in humanitarian aid to address urgent needs in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Israel, and neighboring regions. This funding will go towards providing essentials like food, water, and emergency medical care.

Support for Palestinians and Israelis Affected by Conflict

IRCC has introduced various measures to assist both Palestinian and Israeli citizens impacted by the conflict. Earlier this year, IRCC launched a new policy for Palestinians in Gaza who have close family ties to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Eligible individuals can apply for temporary resident status for up to three years, which may include work or study permits. Family members can also apply for work or study permits if they join their relatives in Canada.

At the same time, IRCC has streamlined the processing of family-class permanent residence applications for Palestinians affected by the conflict. These measures aim to provide faster, more efficient immigration pathways for those seeking safety and reunification with family in Canada.