Headline: Canada Offers Support to Wildfire Victims with Special Measures
In a proactive move to assist those affected by the devastating wildfires, the Canadian government, led by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced a series of special measures to aid individuals facing the aftermath of the worst wildfire season on record.
Facing the harsh reality of climate change, which is causing Canada’s climate to warm twice as fast as the global average, the country is bracing for more frequent and intense heat waves, leading to increased drought and wildfire risks. In light of this, the government is committed to extending support to those impacted across the nation, as well as aiding provinces and territories in their emergency responses.
Today’s measures, set to remain in effect until November 30, 2024, aim to provide relief to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors directly affected by the wildfires. These individuals can benefit from free replacement documents such as permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, and passports, among others, that have been lost, damaged, or are inaccessible due to the wildfires.
Moreover, employer-specific work permit holders affected by the fires will have the opportunity to transition to an open work permit, offering them flexibility during this challenging time. International students facing delays or cancellations in their studies and temporary workers unable to work due to fire-related closures can also extend their status free of charge.
Foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to assist in firefighting efforts are being exempted from application fees and biometrics fees as a gesture of appreciation for their vital contributions to battling the blazes.
Minister Miller expressed his gratitude to the first responders, firefighters, and foreign emergency support personnel for their bravery and dedication in safeguarding communities amidst the wildfire crisis. The government remains committed to simplifying the process for those in need of assistance, ensuring continued support and a smooth transition during this tumultuous period.
For more details on eligibility, application procedures, and covered replacement documents under these special measures, individuals can refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website. By standing united in the face of adversity, Canada aims to provide essential aid to those affected by the wildfires and to uphold a sense of community and support during these challenging times.
In a proactive move to assist those affected by the devastating wildfires, the Canadian government, led by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced a series of special measures to aid individuals facing the aftermath of the worst wildfire season on record.
Facing the harsh reality of climate change, which is causing Canada’s climate to warm twice as fast as the global average, the country is bracing for more frequent and intense heat waves, leading to increased drought and wildfire risks. In light of this, the government is committed to extending support to those impacted across the nation, as well as aiding provinces and territories in their emergency responses.
Today’s measures, set to remain in effect until November 30, 2024, aim to provide relief to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors directly affected by the wildfires. These individuals can benefit from free replacement documents such as permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, and passports, among others, that have been lost, damaged, or are inaccessible due to the wildfires.
Moreover, employer-specific work permit holders affected by the fires will have the opportunity to transition to an open work permit, offering them flexibility during this challenging time. International students facing delays or cancellations in their studies and temporary workers unable to work due to fire-related closures can also extend their status free of charge.
Foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to assist in firefighting efforts are being exempted from application fees and biometrics fees as a gesture of appreciation for their vital contributions to battling the blazes.
Minister Miller expressed his gratitude to the first responders, firefighters, and foreign emergency support personnel for their bravery and dedication in safeguarding communities amidst the wildfire crisis. The government remains committed to simplifying the process for those in need of assistance, ensuring continued support and a smooth transition during this tumultuous period.
For more details on eligibility, application procedures, and covered replacement documents under these special measures, individuals can refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website. By standing united in the face of adversity, Canada aims to provide essential aid to those affected by the wildfires and to uphold a sense of community and support during these challenging times.
