The government of Canada has welcomed more than 30,000 Afghan refugees since August 2021.

After the Taliban gained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, Canada promised to resettle at least 40,000 Afghans by the end of 2023 through its special programs. The country is prioritizing the most vulnerable Afghans, including Afghans who worked for the Government of Canada, women leaders, human-rights defenders, persecuted and religious minorities, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and journalists.

On the 12th of April 2023, the latest newcomers from Afghanistan arrived in Toronto, Ontario, on a charter flight from Pakistan. Those who arrived included people who supported Canada’s mission in Afghanistan, family members of former interpreters, and privately sponsored refugees. The new arrivals will settle in Surrey, Toronto, and London.

Canada was one of the first countries to welcome Afghans by launching several special humanitarian resettlement programs for vulnerable Afghans. Afghans have been settled in more than 170 communities across Canada so far. They became permanent residents upon their arrival and received services such as income support and medical coverage.

Immigration Minister Sean Fraser says, “The Afghanistan resettlement effort is one of the largest and most difficult in Canada’s history, we remain committed to maximizing every opportunity to support these vulnerable Afghans in their transition to a better life in Canada. This milestone is a testament to the incredible work of governments, stakeholders, and NGOs, and underscores our belief that welcoming refugees is an integral part of who we are.”

Source: Canada.ca