Headline: “Canada Steps Up Support for Wildfire Victims with Special Measures for Document Replacement”
In a bid to aid those affected by the devastating wildfires that ravaged Canada last year, the Government of Canada has announced special measures to assist citizens and permanent residents in replacing lost or damaged documents. The extreme heatwaves and increased wildfire risks brought about by climate change have prompted the government to take proactive steps to support communities in need.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, unveiled the initiative, which offers free replacement documents such as permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, and passports to those directly impacted by the wildfires. In addition, employer-specific work permit holders affected by the fires will have the opportunity to transition to an open work permit, providing them with flexibility during these challenging times.
The special measures, effective until November 30, 2024, aim to alleviate the burden on affected individuals and allow them to focus on rebuilding their lives and communities. Temporary foreign workers, international students, and other visitors impacted by the wildfires can also benefit from the program, with options to restore or extend their status in Canada free of charge.
Acknowledging the crucial role of emergency services personnel in combating wildfires, the government has waived application fees and biometrics fees for foreign responders entering Canada to assist in the firefighting efforts. This gesture of gratitude not only recognizes their bravery but also streamlines their essential contributions to protecting Canadian communities.
Minister Miller emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting those affected by the wildfires and expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of first responders and emergency support personnel. The streamlined process for document replacement aims to facilitate a smoother transition for individuals in distress, ensuring they can access the assistance they need swiftly and efficiently.
With approximately 5,600 foreign emergency services personnel aiding Canada during the wildfires in 2023, the government remains steadfast in its efforts to provide relief and assistance to those impacted by natural disasters. Additional information on eligibility, application processes, and covered replacement documents can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.
For media inquiries: Aissa Diop Director of Communications Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Email: Aissa.Diop@cic.gc.ca Phone: 613-952-1650 Email: media@cic.gc.ca
In a bid to aid those affected by the devastating wildfires that ravaged Canada last year, the Government of Canada has announced special measures to assist citizens and permanent residents in replacing lost or damaged documents. The extreme heatwaves and increased wildfire risks brought about by climate change have prompted the government to take proactive steps to support communities in need.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, unveiled the initiative, which offers free replacement documents such as permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, and passports to those directly impacted by the wildfires. In addition, employer-specific work permit holders affected by the fires will have the opportunity to transition to an open work permit, providing them with flexibility during these challenging times.
The special measures, effective until November 30, 2024, aim to alleviate the burden on affected individuals and allow them to focus on rebuilding their lives and communities. Temporary foreign workers, international students, and other visitors impacted by the wildfires can also benefit from the program, with options to restore or extend their status in Canada free of charge.
Acknowledging the crucial role of emergency services personnel in combating wildfires, the government has waived application fees and biometrics fees for foreign responders entering Canada to assist in the firefighting efforts. This gesture of gratitude not only recognizes their bravery but also streamlines their essential contributions to protecting Canadian communities.
Minister Miller emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting those affected by the wildfires and expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of first responders and emergency support personnel. The streamlined process for document replacement aims to facilitate a smoother transition for individuals in distress, ensuring they can access the assistance they need swiftly and efficiently.
With approximately 5,600 foreign emergency services personnel aiding Canada during the wildfires in 2023, the government remains steadfast in its efforts to provide relief and assistance to those impacted by natural disasters. Additional information on eligibility, application processes, and covered replacement documents can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.
For media inquiries: Aissa Diop Director of Communications Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Email: Aissa.Diop@cic.gc.ca Phone: 613-952-1650 Email: media@cic.gc.ca
