Temporary Support Measures for Those Impacted by the Lebanon Crisis
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Government Response to the Crisis
The ongoing situation in Lebanon is fraught with uncertainty due to escalating conflicts between Israel and Hezbollah, marked by frequent rocket attacks and airstrikes. The Canadian government is committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens and residents in the region.
On October 30, 2024, Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, shared temporary measures to aid Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members who have fled Lebanon, as well as Lebanese nationals in Canada unable to return home.
Details of the Temporary Measures
Immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who evacuated Lebanon after September 29, 2024, can apply for open work permits, study permits, or status extensions at no cost. This offer extends to spouses and dependents, regardless of nationality and means of departure.
Additionally, Lebanese nationals in Canada with valid temporary resident status can also apply for these permits and extensions free of charge. These actions aim to maintain family unity and provide safety for Lebanese individuals in Canada.
The Canadian government advises against travel to Lebanon and encourages those in the country to leave if possible. IRCC has increased its processing capacity to handle applications from the region swiftly.
For more information on eligibility and application procedures, visit the IRCC website.
Statements and Insights
“We remain deeply concerned for the well-being of people in Lebanon, and all those in the surrounding region. We are committed to doing everything we can to help Canadians coming home, while also providing temporary safety for Lebanese nationals in Canada who no longer feel safe returning.”
– The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Essential Information
Immediate family members include:
- The spouse or common-law partner
- A dependent child of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or their partner
- A dependent child of a dependent child
- These measures are effective until July 31, 2025, or until revoked.
- Canadians in Lebanon should register through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.
- Global Affairs Canada has facilitated the departure of over 1,200 individuals from Lebanon.
- Travelers must have valid travel documents to enter Canada.
- Similar measures for Israeli nationals and Palestinian passport holders remain in effect until July 31, 2025.
Related Announcements
- Canada announces $15 million in additional assistance for Lebanon
- Canada calls for de-escalation in Lebanon and Israel
Further Resources
Media Contact Information
For media inquiries:
Renée LeBlanc Proctor
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Renee.Proctor@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Sector
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies as an immediate family member?
Immediate family includes spouses, common-law partners, dependent children of citizens or their partners, and dependent children of dependent children.
How long will the temporary measures be in place?
The measures are valid until July 31, 2025, unless otherwise revoked.
What should Canadians in Lebanon do?
They should register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and leave if it’s safe.
What support is available for Lebanese nationals in Canada?
Lebanese nationals can apply for open work permits, study permits, or status extensions at no cost.
Are similar measures available for other regions?
Yes, similar measures are in place for Israeli nationals and Palestinian passport holders until July 31, 2025.
