Headline: Canada Implements Special Measures for Wildfire-Affected Individuals: Free Replacement Documents and Work Permit Transition
In a proactive move to support those affected by the devastating wildfires, the Government of Canada has announced special measures to assist individuals facing challenges in the aftermath of the worst wildfire season on record.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, unveiled these crucial steps to aid Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents directly impacted by the wildfires. The new measures include offering free replacement documents, such as permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, Canadian passports, and other essential travel documents that may have been lost, damaged, destroyed, or rendered inaccessible due to the wildfires.
Moreover, individuals in Canada who are employer-specific work permit holders will have the opportunity to transition to an open work permit, providing flexibility and support during this challenging time. These special measures will be in effect until November 30, 2024, allowing individuals ample time to navigate the replacement process and resolve temporary status concerns while focusing on rebuilding and recovery efforts in their communities.
International students, temporary foreign workers, and other visitors directly affected by the wildfires will also benefit from these measures. Those whose status is set to expire by November 30, 2024, will have the option to restore or extend their status in Canada, or replace a status document, free of charge. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals facing disruptions, such as delayed classes or workplace closures, can maintain their status and continue their activities without penalty.
Additionally, foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to assist in firefighting efforts will be exempt from application and biometrics fees, recognizing and facilitating their critical contributions to wildfire response efforts.
Minister Marc Miller emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting those impacted by wildfires, acknowledging the resilience and dedication of first responders, firefighters, and emergency personnel working tirelessly to protect communities across the nation.
Individuals applying for temporary resident status extension or work permit renewal will continue to enjoy maintained status during the processing period and retain eligibility to work as per their original work permit conditions.
For more information on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and covered replacement documents under the special measures, individuals can visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
As Canada navigates the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events, these measures serve as a vital lifeline for those affected by wildfires, ensuring support, security, and continuity in the face of crisis.
For media inquiries, please contact
In a proactive move to support those affected by the devastating wildfires, the Government of Canada has announced special measures to assist individuals facing challenges in the aftermath of the worst wildfire season on record.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, unveiled these crucial steps to aid Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents directly impacted by the wildfires. The new measures include offering free replacement documents, such as permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, Canadian passports, and other essential travel documents that may have been lost, damaged, destroyed, or rendered inaccessible due to the wildfires.
Moreover, individuals in Canada who are employer-specific work permit holders will have the opportunity to transition to an open work permit, providing flexibility and support during this challenging time. These special measures will be in effect until November 30, 2024, allowing individuals ample time to navigate the replacement process and resolve temporary status concerns while focusing on rebuilding and recovery efforts in their communities.
International students, temporary foreign workers, and other visitors directly affected by the wildfires will also benefit from these measures. Those whose status is set to expire by November 30, 2024, will have the option to restore or extend their status in Canada, or replace a status document, free of charge. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals facing disruptions, such as delayed classes or workplace closures, can maintain their status and continue their activities without penalty.
Additionally, foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to assist in firefighting efforts will be exempt from application and biometrics fees, recognizing and facilitating their critical contributions to wildfire response efforts.
Minister Marc Miller emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting those impacted by wildfires, acknowledging the resilience and dedication of first responders, firefighters, and emergency personnel working tirelessly to protect communities across the nation.
Individuals applying for temporary resident status extension or work permit renewal will continue to enjoy maintained status during the processing period and retain eligibility to work as per their original work permit conditions.
For more information on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and covered replacement documents under the special measures, individuals can visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
As Canada navigates the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events, these measures serve as a vital lifeline for those affected by wildfires, ensuring support, security, and continuity in the face of crisis.
For media inquiries, please contact
