Canada Waives Fees for Sudanese Family Members of Canadians
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Canada’s Commitment to Sudanese Families
Amidst ongoing violence in Sudan, Canada urges for peace and stands in solidarity with the Sudanese people. The safety of Canadian citizens and permanent residents’ families forced to escape the turmoil remains a priority.
Temporary Residence Fee Waiver
On May 4, 2023, Minister Sean Fraser announced the waiver of temporary residence application fees for foreign nationals who fled Sudan with their Canadian families. This initiative allows them to apply for temporary residence without incurring any fees. Once in Canada, they can pursue open work permits, study permits, and permanent residency under the family class, all free of charge. For more details, visit online.
Supporting Sudanese Residents in Canada
In addition to these new measures, Canada is prioritizing the processing of temporary and permanent residence applications from Sudanese residents. Fees for passports and travel documents are also waived for Canadians and permanent residents in the area.
“Canada continues to call for an end to violence in Sudan and stands with the Sudanese people as they strive for peace. We remain committed to helping the family members of Canadians who have been forced to flee this violence stay together and find safety in Canada.”
Key Information for Applicants
- Immediate family members arriving in Canada before July 15, 2023, can apply for open work or study permits. Permanent residency applications under the family class will also be free.
- Applicants evacuated by Canada or partners need proof of eligibility. Those who left independently must prove their immediate familial ties to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and joint residence in Sudan before April 15, 2023.
- Eligibility extends to the spouse, common-law partner, or dependent children of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, as defined by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
- All applicants must meet other legislative eligibility and admissibility criteria.
Related Resources
- Canada to Provide Support to Sudanese Nationals
- Sudanese Nationals Can Extend Their Stay in Canada
- Temporary Measures for Foreign National Family Members
Contact Information
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
FAQs
Who is eligible for the fee waiver in Canada?
Immediate family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who fled Sudan and meet specific criteria are eligible.
What documents are required for proof of eligibility?
Applicants need to provide proof of their familial relationship and joint residence in Sudan before April 15, 2023.
Are there any other requirements to meet?
Yes, applicants must fulfill all other legislative eligibility and admissibility requirements.
For more comprehensive guidance, read our immigration guide.
