First Charter Flight of Privately Sponsored Afghan Refugees Arrives in Canada
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Welcoming Afghan Refugees to Canada
Canada is actively embracing Afghan refugees, with private sponsors nationwide playing a vital role. A considerable number of Afghan nationals are arriving through private sponsorship, supported by individuals, groups, and communities across the country.
December 2, 2021—Toronto, Ontario—Canada’s commitment to Afghan refugees took a significant step as the first charter flight carrying privately sponsored Afghan refugees landed at Toronto Pearson International Airport. Approximately 250 refugees arrived and will soon integrate into their sponsor communities, receiving quarantine support from their sponsors.
This initiative is part of Canada’s promise to aid vulnerable Afghan refugees, including women leaders, human rights advocates, persecuted minorities, LGBTI individuals, and journalists. It complements a special immigration program for Afghans who aided Canada during its military mission. To date, Canada has welcomed nearly 4,000 Afghan refugees.
The Role of Private Sponsors
The Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program is a cornerstone of Canada’s refugee efforts, allowing Canadians to actively engage in refugee resettlement. Sponsors are instrumental in helping refugees succeed, whether they are Canadian groups, faith organizations, cultural associations, or settlement bodies.
Private sponsors are invaluable in assisting refugees to acclimate to their new environment, from finding schools to managing finances, and covering basic needs like food and housing. Alongside sponsor support, privately sponsored refugees are eligible for government-funded settlement services.
Since the late 1970s, this program has enabled 330,000 vulnerable individuals worldwide to begin anew in Canada, serving as a model internationally. Discover how you can sponsor a refugee and make a transformative impact.
Insights from the Minister
“For those newly arrived in our big, cold country, private sponsors offer a warm welcome. It’s no wonder that many refugees think of their sponsors as family. As we welcome Afghan refugees, private sponsors are essential in helping vulnerable newcomers thrive in their new communities. I look forward to welcoming many more new arrivals in the weeks and months to come.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Important Facts
Stay updated with the latest data on newly arrived Afghan refugees on our Key figures webpage.
The UNHCR’s 2019 report highlights that refugees integrate into Canada’s middle class within five years, with one in four earning between $40,000 and $79,999 annually. Half are employed in high-skilled roles, and 14.4% are entrepreneurs.
To ensure Canadians’ safety and health, new arrivals underwent thorough screening, including medical exams, vaccinations, and COVID-19 tests. Those unvaccinated against COVID-19 will adhere to a quarantine plan provided by private sponsors following public health guidelines.
Associated Links
- Canada’s response to the situation in Afghanistan
- Sponsor a refugee
- Who may submit a private sponsorship?
- What are the responsibilities of a sponsoring group?
- Government-Assisted Refugees Program
- Immigration Matters: Canada’s immigration track record
Contact Information
Media Contacts Only
Alexander Cohen
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
alexander.cohen@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs about Privately Sponsored Afghan Refugees
How do private sponsors support Afghan refugees?
Private sponsors assist Afghan refugees by helping them integrate into the community, providing support in finding housing, schools, and essential services.
What is the Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program?
The program allows Canadians to sponsor refugees, aiding their resettlement and integration into Canadian society.
How are Afghan refugees screened before arriving in Canada?
Refugees undergo medical exams, vaccinations, and COVID-19 screenings to ensure public health safety.
Can privately sponsored refugees access government services?
Yes, they are eligible for the same government-funded settlement services as other newcomers.
Where can I find more information about sponsoring a refugee?
You can learn more by visiting the Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program page.
Inspired to make a difference? Sponsor a refugee today and help transform lives.
