Canada announces support measures for Haitians and their families facing the crisis in Haiti

The Government of Canada announces support measures for Haitians and their families facing the crisis in Haiti

In response to the continued deterioration of the security situation in Haiti, the Government of Canada has taken important measures to support those affected by violence and instability.

L’honorable Marc MillerMinister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced this Thursday a series of temporary measures aimed at helping family members of Canadian citizens, permanent residents and temporary residents from Haiti.

The new measures, in effect this Thursday, will allow Haitians in Canada with valid temporary resident status to apply free of charge for an open work permit, a study permit or an extension of their status.

These facilities also extend to family members, regardless of their nationality, who arrived in Canada via assisted departures from Haiti. In addition, beneficiaries will have access to coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program for three months, reads a note.

Marc Miller said: “We are deeply concerned about the well-being of people in Haiti. The measures announced today will help family members of Canadians who fled Haiti to stay in Canada with their families and allow Haitians to work and study in a safe environment. »

Concrete support for families

These measures aim to keep families together and provide Haitians in Canada with a stable and secure environment to live, work and study. The minister underlined the importance of these initiatives in these difficult times, recalling that the Government of Canada is determined to offer refuge and assistance to people affected by the Haitian crisis.

Information on Eligibility and Procedures

Details regarding eligibility criteria and application procedures are available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Those affected are encouraged to consult this information to fully benefit from the support measures, the note stressed.

As a reminder, Canada recently organized assisted departures from Haiti, successfully transporting 681 people, including 435 Canadian citizens, 111 permanent residents and 135 temporary residents. There are approximately 44,000 Haitians with valid temporary resident status in Canada.