Palestinians leaving Gaza will soon receive transitional financial aid from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) when they arrive in Canada. This support is designed to help cover essential needs such as food, housing, and clothing while they search for employment. The IRCC plans to release more information about the program when it becomes available.
Canada’s immigration minister, Marc Miller, emphasized that providing both settlement and financial assistance is crucial to supporting Gazans as they find safety in Canada.
Additional Support for Gazans
In addition to financial assistance, Gazans fleeing the ongoing conflict will benefit from several other forms of support, including:
- Temporary Health Coverage: Three months of coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program to address urgent medical needs upon arrival.
- Settlement Services: These include language training, guidance on integrating into Canadian society (e.g., enrolling children in school or setting up bank accounts), and help with finding employment.
Current Numbers
As of now, 4,245 applications are under processing through IRCC’s temporary resident pathway for extended Palestinian family members in Gaza, and 733 individuals have been approved to come to Canada. These individuals had pending Temporary Resident Visa applications and were able to submit their biometric information.
IRCC has acknowledged that movement out of Gaza is highly difficult due to factors beyond Canada’s control but has committed to working with local authorities to facilitate the process. As of October 5, 334 people have arrived in Canada under the temporary public policy.
Humanitarian Aid
Canada has also committed $140 million in humanitarian assistance to help address urgent needs in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, and surrounding areas. This funding will support critical supplies, including food, water, and emergency medical care.
Broader Humanitarian Measures
IRCC has implemented several additional measures for Palestinians and Israelis affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Earlier this year, the department introduced a new policy for Palestinians in Gaza who have close family members that are Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This policy supports their transition to life in Canada. Eligible relatives include:
- Spouses or common-law partners
- Children or grandchildren
- Siblings
- Parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents
Successful applicants under this pathway can receive temporary resident status in Canada for up to three years, allowing them to work (with an open work permit) and/or study during this time. Family members accompanying these applicants may also apply for study or work permits.
Additionally, IRCC has expedited the processing of family-class permanent residence applications for Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.