Canada’s Humanitarian Pathway for Sudan Conflict Victims
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Canada’s Response to the Sudan Conflict
Amidst the ongoing conflict in Sudan, Canada remains committed to supporting the Sudanese people as they strive for peace. The country continues to stand by those affected, emphasizing the importance of safety and well-being.
On December 28, 2023, Minister Marc Miller announced a new humanitarian immigration pathway. This initiative allows Sudanese nationals and others residing in Sudan as of April 15, 2023, to reunite permanently with their Canadian family members.
Eligibility Criteria for the Humanitarian Pathway
Applicants must be related to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident as a child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, or sibling. Their Canadian relatives must agree to support them as they transition to life in Canada. Detailed application information will soon be available on the IRCC website.
Canada’s Ongoing Support and Assistance
Canada is already implementing temporary immigration measures for Sudanese nationals. This includes those who arrived in Canada before July 15, 2023, and cannot return home due to the crisis.
Continuing efforts with international partners aim to resolve the conflict peacefully. In Sudan, Canada provides essential humanitarian aid, including emergency food, clean water, and health services.
Minister’s Statement on the Initiative
“The ongoing conflict in Sudan, as well as the humanitarian situation on the ground, remains deeply concerning. Canada will continue to help those in need and uphold our humanitarian traditions as a country. This humanitarian pathway will help reunite loved ones and save lives. We recognize the resilience of the Sudanese people, and are grateful for their continued contributions to their communities and our country.”
– The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Points to Note
- Applicants must undergo biometric and security checks and not be inadmissible to Canada.
- In 2023, Canada committed over $165 million in humanitarian aid to Sudan and its neighbors.
- Temporary measures for Sudanese nationals include:
- Free applications for extending stay or changing status in Canada.
- Waived fees for temporary residence applications for those fleeing Sudan with family.
- Prioritized processing of residence applications already in the system.
- Exemptions from holding passports for permanent resident visa approval.
- Waived passport and travel document fees for Canadians in Sudan wishing to leave.
Additional Resources
- Conflict in Sudan – Temporary immigration measures and contact information
- Canada to provide support to Sudanese nationals
- Sudanese nationals can extend their stay in Canada
- Canada waives fees for family members of Canadians who fled Sudan
Contact Information for Media
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary, Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
FAQ on Canada’s Humanitarian Pathway for Sudan
Who is eligible for the new humanitarian pathway?
Eligibility extends to Sudanese and non-Sudanese nationals who resided in Sudan as of April 15, 2023, and have family ties in Canada.
What support does Canada provide to Sudanese nationals in Canada?
Canada offers temporary measures, including fee waivers and extended stay applications, to Sudanese nationals affected by the conflict.
How is Canada helping those in Sudan?
Canada provides essential humanitarian assistance, including food, water, and health services, while working towards a peaceful resolution with global partners.
What is the financial commitment of Canada towards Sudan?
In 2023, Canada allocated over $165 million in humanitarian aid to support Sudan and neighboring regions.
For more details, please visit the IRCC website.
