The Government of Canada announced that it is taking steps to help vulnerable Canadians leave Haiti as the security situation in the country remains precarious. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honorable Mélanie Joly, announced today that Canada has begun facilitating departure options to the Dominican Republic for these citizens.
This initiative is part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to ensure the security of its nationals abroad, particularly in crisis zones. Thanks to the support of the Dominican Republic, Canada is putting in place solutions to allow the safe departure of the most vulnerable Canadians. It is important to note that this departure option to the Dominican Republic is reserved for Canadian citizens with a valid passport, due to the admissibility requirements to enter this neighboring country.
However, the Government of Canada is also working with its partners to explore other options for individuals who do not meet these criteria. The Department of Global Affairs Canada has deployed three members of its Permanent Rapid Deployment Team (PRDT) to the region to support these operations and provide emergency response, consular assistance and logistical support. The EPDR consists of highly trained members capable of deploying quickly to respond to emergency situations.
Canadians who are still in Haiti and wish to leave are encouraged to use the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and to contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Center to discuss of their situation.The Government of Canada also reminds Canadians who intend to travel to Canada to apply for a travel document as soon as possible.
In addition, it encourages all Canadians in Haiti to regularly consult the voyage.gc.ca site for updates and to use the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive important information on the help available.
For any consular assistance in Haiti, Canadians are invited to contact the Canadian Embassy in Haiti.
In the event of an emergency, they can also contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Center in Ottawa, available 24/7, by phone, SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal or email.
