Palestinians fleeing Gaza will soon receive transitional financial assistance from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) upon their arrival in Canada. This financial aid is intended to help them meet their essential needs, including food, shelter, and clothing, while they search for employment. Although specific details about the program are yet to be released, IRCC has confirmed that more information will be provided when available.
Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration Minister, emphasized the importance of this support: "Providing settlement and financial assistance is crucial to addressing the immediate challenges Gazans face as they seek safety in Canada."
Additional Support for Gazans
Alongside financial assistance, Palestinians escaping the conflict in Gaza will be eligible for the following support:
- Temporary Health Coverage: They will receive three months of temporary health insurance through the Interim Federal Health Program, ensuring they have access to urgent medical care upon arrival.
- Settlement Services: These include language training, help with adapting to life in Canada (such as enrolling children in school or setting up a bank account), and assistance in finding employment.
So far, 4,245 applications have entered processing under IRCC’s temporary resident pathway for extended family members of Palestinians in Gaza, and 733 individuals have been approved to come to Canada. These individuals had Temporary Resident Visa applications in progress and were able to submit their biometrics.
IRCC acknowledged that leaving Gaza remains "extremely challenging" due to factors beyond Canada's control, but it continues working with local authorities to facilitate the movement of extended family members of Canadians. As of October 5, 334 people have arrived in Canada through this temporary public policy.
Humanitarian Assistance Funding
In response to the ongoing crisis, Canada has announced $140 million in humanitarian assistance to address urgent needs in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, and neighboring regions. This funding will support critical necessities such as food, water, and emergency medical aid in these areas.
Broader Humanitarian Measures
IRCC has implemented several measures to support both Palestinian and Israeli citizens affected by the Middle East conflict.
For instance, in January, IRCC introduced a policy for Palestinians in Gaza who are related to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This policy aims to assist their transition to life in Canada. Eligible relatives are defined as:
- Spouses or common-law partners
- Children or grandchildren
- Siblings
- Parents or grandparents of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Those approved through this pathway can obtain temporary resident status in Canada for up to three years, allowing them to work (under an open work permit) or study during their stay. Additionally, family members joining applicants may also apply for a study or work permit.
At the same time, IRCC has fast-tracked the processing of family-class applications for permanent residency (PR) for Palestinians affected by the conflict, providing a more efficient pathway to reunite families in Canada.
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