Recognizing the urgent need for support, Canada is ensuring that essential resources are available for Gazans as they transition to life in Canada.
On January 16, 2025, the Canadian government, under the leadership of the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced significant financial assistance measures for Palestinians arriving in Canada.
This initiative responds to the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where conditions have become increasingly catastrophic, making it extremely challenging for individuals to leave the region. Recognizing the urgent need for support, Canada is ensuring that essential resources are available for Gazans as they transition to life in Canada. The newly introduced transitional financial assistance program allows Palestinians who have recently arrived in Canada to apply for a one-time payment designed to help them cover necessities. Specifically, adults will receive $3,000, while children aged 17 and under will be allocated $1,500.
This financial support is crucial as it aims to alleviate immediate challenges such as securing food, clothing, and housing, enabling families to reunite and settle into their new communities across Canada. The rollout of these payments will begin with individuals who have arrived by March 31, 2025, and it is strongly encouraged that they submit their applications as soon as they arrive to facilitate quick access to these funds. Payments will be made through direct deposit to ensure that the financial assistance is distributed efficiently, necessitating applicants to have a bank account with a Canadian financial institution.
Furthermore, the government has committed to refunding application fees and biometrics costs for temporary resident visa applications related to extended family members in Gaza. Those who have already submitted their applications and paid these fees can expect to receive their refunds in the upcoming weeks. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to support not only new arrivals from Gaza but also family members of Canadians and permanent residents, as well as individuals already in Canada who have been impacted by the ongoing conflict.
Minister Miller emphasized the commitment of the Canadian government to provide ongoing support to Palestinians fleeing the humanitarian crisis, highlighting the importance of settlement assistance and financial aid in addressing the immediate challenges faced by those relocating under such difficult circumstances. As of January 4, 2025, there have been notable developments in the processing of applications under the temporary resident pathway for Palestinian extended family in Gaza, with 4,782 applications accepted and 616 individuals having successfully arrived in Canada. The temporary resident pathway will remain open until April 22, 2025, or until 5,000 applications are processed, whichever comes first. Additionally, those who fled Gaza after September 1, 2023, may also access existing IRCC programs, with 473 individuals potentially eligible for financial assistance upon their arrival.
In response to the urgent needs in Gaza and the West Bank, Canada has also announced an additional $50 million in international assistance, bringing the total funding to $215 million since the onset of the conflict. This funding is aimed at providing vital resources such as food, water, emergency medical assistance, and protection services to those affected. In conclusion, Canada’s proactive measures reflect a commitment to supporting Gazans as they arrive in the country, ensuring they have the necessary resources to begin rebuilding their lives in a new environment. The government's ongoing advocacy for the safety and well-being of all individuals in the region remains a priority as they work to facilitate successful integration for those fleeing the crisis.
Source: Canada.ca