Afghan Newcomers Arriving in Canada
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Canada’s Commitment to Afghan Refugees
Canada is dedicated to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan nationals safely and swiftly. To date, over 16,000 Afghan refugees have arrived in Canada, including 313 individuals who landed in Vancouver, contributing to this effort.
As we approach World Refugee Day on June 20, we celebrate the stories of Afghan newcomers finding refuge and starting anew in Canada. This day, established by the United Nations in 2001, honors the resilience of those fleeing conflict and persecution as they rebuild their lives under challenging circumstances.
Inspiring Stories of Resilience
Abdul Hakim Azizi’s Journey
Abdul Hakim Azizi, once an interpreter for the Canadian Armed Forces, arrived in Canada last August. He and his wife now reside in Ottawa. She’s learning English, and he’s employed at a tech start-up. Their new community, including fellow Afghan newcomers, has helped them feel at home.
“Canada is a warm, welcoming country, and I’m very proud that I stabilized my life so soon. It is because of the support that I received, but also my struggle and hard work. I have goals to continue my education and build a stronger professional career.” – Abdul Hakim Azizi
Mohammad Tamim Hamkar’s Legacy
Mohammad Tamim Hamkar, who worked with a non-governmental organization in Kabul, relocated to Ottawa with his family in October 2021. Although reluctant to leave Afghanistan, he saw no future there post-government collapse. Now, his children are thriving in school, and the family is building a new life.
“I’m proud of my daughters because now they are going to school, and they are fully dedicated to their school. One day they will be able to contribute and work here. This is my legacy.” – Mohammad Tamim Hamkar
Supporting Afghan Newcomers
With the help of partners nationwide, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is improving the lives of Afghan refugees. Those interested in volunteering, donating, or engaging in resettlement efforts can learn more about how Canadians can help.
Media can access photos of recent arrivals and track Canada’s progress on welcoming Afghan refugees.
Quotes from Leadership
“Canada has a proud history of welcoming the world’s most vulnerable, and we’re working hard to protect and improve the lives of refugees every day. Canadians across the country continue to welcome refugee newcomers from Afghanistan, and around the world, into their communities. As we approach World Refugee Day, we reaffirm our commitment to continue this crucial work and to offer protection to those at risk, including at least 40,000 vulnerable Afghans.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick Facts
- This year’s World Refugee Day theme is “Whoever. Wherever. Whenever.”, highlighting the universal right to seek safety.
- The United Nations Refugee Agency reports approximately 100 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide due to conflict, persecution, violence, or human rights violations.
Associated Links
Contact Information
Contacts for media only
Aidan Strickland
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Aidan.Strickland@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Afghan refugees has Canada welcomed so far?
Canada has welcomed over 16,000 Afghan refugees, with a goal of resettling at least 40,000.
What support is available for Afghan newcomers in Canada?
IRCC, along with partners, provides support to Afghan newcomers, including access to community resources and settlement programs.
Can individuals contribute to the resettlement efforts?
Yes, individuals can volunteer, donate, or support resettlement efforts through various initiatives.
Read our immigration guide for more details on Canada’s refugee policies.
Engage with these stories of hope and resilience as Canada continues to offer sanctuary to those in need. Contact us today to learn how you can contribute to this vital mission.
