Canada Visa Facilitation Transfer to Earthquake Victims

Canadian Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Sean Fraser and Transport Minister Omar Alghabra announced in a joint written statement that the government will process applications for temporary and permanent residence, including refugee resettlement applications, from people affected by the devastating earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş on February 6.

In this context, Minister Fraser and Minister Alghabra announced that steps will be taken to make it easier for Turkish and Syrian citizens who are still in Canada but whose visas have expired to extend their stay.

Those who will apply to come to Canada from Turkey and Turkish citizens who are still in Canada but whose visa period has expired will be able to start making their applications in accordance with the provisions on visa priority and ease from March 29, 2023 .

“TO BE PROCESSED WITH PRIORITY”

In a joint statement by Minister Fraser and Minister Alghabra, “Effective March 29, 2023, we will waive the passport or travel document requirement and the fees paid for these documents, considering that applicants for permanent residence have lost their travel documents due to earthquakes. These new measures build on work already being done to prioritize overseas applications from those personally affected by the earthquakes. New and existing temporary residency applications and permanent residency applications, including refugee resettlement applications, are processed on a priority basis,” the statement said.

Minister Fraser said in a statement: “Canada is committed to providing assistance to those affected by the devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. “Our government will always be ready to respond to emerging international crises and support those in need,” he said.

Meanwhile, Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said in a statement that they continued their commitment to support the citizens of Turkey and Syria who were affected by the earthquakes.

Minister Algahbra said: “We know that many Canadians have family members affected by the earthquakes, and today’s measures should reassure these Canadians. With these new measures, we hope to alleviate the challenges you are currently facing. “We understand the difficulties faced by those affected by this tragedy and we are committed to providing support and assistance at this difficult time.” (AA)