Canada Extends Immigration Measures to Support Sudanese Families: A Path to Safety and Stability
In a compassionate response to the ongoing crisis in Sudan, the Government of Canada has extended immigration measures to support immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who left Sudan. Effective from May 16, 2024, to October 27, 2024, these measures aim to ease the process for eligible family members to travel and settle in Canada, providing crucial assistance to those affected by the outbreak of violence in Sudan on April 15, 2023.
Key Measures for Sudanese Family Members
Under these extended immigration measures, eligible family members can benefit from several key provisions:
Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs): Eligible family members can receive fee-exempt TRPs to facilitate their travel to Canada, waiving the usual application fees. This permit must be obtained before July 15, 2023, to qualify for further benefits upon arrival in Canada.
Open Work and Study Permits: Once in Canada, eligible family members can apply for fee-exempt open work or study permits, enabling them to work or study without the usual fees, thus providing significant financial relief and aiding in their integration into Canadian society.
Permanent Residence Applications: Eligible family members can also submit fee-exempt applications for permanent residence under the family class, ensuring a clear path to settling in Canada permanently and reinforcing Canada’s commitment to family reunification.
Eligibility Criteria:
To benefit from these measures, eligible family members must meet specific criteria:
- Family Member Status: The applicant must be an immediate family member of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who left Sudan on or after April 15, 2023.
- Location: The applicant must be outside Sudan and in a third country.
- Travel Timeline: The applicant must have left Sudan on or after April 15, 2023.
Applying for Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) and Permits
Eligible family members must apply for a TRP through the IRCC’s online portal. Applications are processed on a priority basis, with specific exemption codes used to waive fees. In cases where applicants do not meet the standard requirements for a TRV, officers may issue a single-entry TRP to facilitate travel to Canada, using their discretion to waive certain requirements as necessary.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA):
Family members requiring an eTA must submit their application via the standard process. While most applications are automatically approved, an officer will review those with issues.
Port of Entry Processing:
Upon arrival in Canada, eligible family members can receive a period of authorized stay for up to two years or until their travel document expires, whichever comes first. Border services officers can authorize this stay and facilitate the entry process.
Post-Arrival Benefits:
After entering Canada, eligible family members admitted before July 15, 2023, can apply for fee-exempt open work permits and study permits. These applications are processed on a priority basis to support quick integration into Canadian life.
Applying for Permanent Residence
Eligible family members can apply for permanent residence under the family class without paying the usual fees.
Applications are processed on a priority basis, with specific exemption codes used to waive fees. The eligibility criteria for permanent residence applications include being in Canada with valid temporary resident status and having entered Canada before July 15, 2023.
Fee Waivers:
The following fees are waived for eligible applicants:
- Temporary resident visa (TRV) application fee
- Temporary resident permit (TRP) application fee
- Open work permit application fee
- Study permit application fee
- Permanent residence application fee
- Biometric enrollment fee
Conclusion
Canada's extension of immigration measures for relatives of citizens and permanent residents who left Sudan underscores the country's commitment to humanitarian assistance and family reunification. These measures provide vital support to those affected by the crisis in Sudan, offering a clear path to safety and stability in Canada. By easing the immigration process and waiving fees, Canada ensures that affected families can quickly integrate and contribute to their new communities.
How Pelican Migration Consultants Facilitate Visa Success for a New Beginning in Canada
Pelican Migration Consultants stands as a beacon of support for individuals navigating the complexities of immigration processes. With their specialized knowledge and personalized approach, Pelican Migration Consultants can provide invaluable assistance to Sudanese families seeking to secure their visit visas to Canada. Their team of experienced consultants offers guidance at every step, from assessing eligibility criteria and compiling necessary documents to navigating the application process with ease. By entrusting their visa applications to Pelican Migration Consultants, families can benefit from expert advice, streamlined procedures, and peace of mind, knowing that their case is in capable hands. Pelican Migration Consultants are dedicated to helping Sudanese families achieve their dreams of safety and stability in Canada, ensuring a smooth transition and a brighter future ahead.
