Headline: “Canada Announces Special Measures to Aid Wildfire Victims: Free Replacement Documents and Extended Work Permits”
In a bid to support those affected by the devastating wildfires which ravaged Canada last year, the Government has taken a proactive step to assist citizens, residents, and temporary workers coping with the aftermath. Canada experienced its worst wildfire season on record, with climate change exacerbating extreme weather conditions, leading to increased drought and wildfire risks.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, revealed special measures aimed at easing the burden on individuals directly impacted by the wildfires. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and certain work permit holders who lost essential documents due to the fires will be eligible for free replacements. The special measures also include provisions for transitioning employer-specific work permit holders to open work permits, offering flexibility until November 30, 2024.
Furthermore, international students, temporary foreign workers, and other visitors affected by the wildfires can restore or extend their status in Canada at no cost if their status expires by November 30, 2024. This initiative will allow individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives and communities, providing relief during a challenging period.
Notably, foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to aid in wildfire containment efforts are exempt from paying application and biometric fees, serving as a token of appreciation for their invaluable contribution to safeguarding Canadian communities.
Minister Miller emphasized, “We remain steadfast in our efforts to support those affected by severe wildfires. Our measures will simplify the process for Canadians, permanent residents, and temporary residents to replace lost documents.” The government’s commitment to easing the recovery process for individuals impacted by the wildfires underscores its dedication to providing much-needed assistance during a time of crisis.
Individuals seeking assistance can visit IRCC’s website for more information on eligibility, application procedures, and covered replacement documents. The Minister expressed his gratitude to first responders, firefighters, and international emergency support personnel for their unwavering courage and dedication in protecting communities across the country.
During the application processing period for temporary resident status extensions and work permit renewals, applicants will maintain their status and work eligibility as per the conditions of their original permits. In 2023, around 5,600 foreign emergency services personnel were deployed to assist in combating Canada’s wildfires, reflecting the significant international cooperation in times of crisis.
For media inquiries: Aissa Diop Director of Communications, Minister’s Office, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Aissa.Diop
In a bid to support those affected by the devastating wildfires which ravaged Canada last year, the Government has taken a proactive step to assist citizens, residents, and temporary workers coping with the aftermath. Canada experienced its worst wildfire season on record, with climate change exacerbating extreme weather conditions, leading to increased drought and wildfire risks.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, revealed special measures aimed at easing the burden on individuals directly impacted by the wildfires. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and certain work permit holders who lost essential documents due to the fires will be eligible for free replacements. The special measures also include provisions for transitioning employer-specific work permit holders to open work permits, offering flexibility until November 30, 2024.
Furthermore, international students, temporary foreign workers, and other visitors affected by the wildfires can restore or extend their status in Canada at no cost if their status expires by November 30, 2024. This initiative will allow individuals to focus on rebuilding their lives and communities, providing relief during a challenging period.
Notably, foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to aid in wildfire containment efforts are exempt from paying application and biometric fees, serving as a token of appreciation for their invaluable contribution to safeguarding Canadian communities.
Minister Miller emphasized, “We remain steadfast in our efforts to support those affected by severe wildfires. Our measures will simplify the process for Canadians, permanent residents, and temporary residents to replace lost documents.” The government’s commitment to easing the recovery process for individuals impacted by the wildfires underscores its dedication to providing much-needed assistance during a time of crisis.
Individuals seeking assistance can visit IRCC’s website for more information on eligibility, application procedures, and covered replacement documents. The Minister expressed his gratitude to first responders, firefighters, and international emergency support personnel for their unwavering courage and dedication in protecting communities across the country.
During the application processing period for temporary resident status extensions and work permit renewals, applicants will maintain their status and work eligibility as per the conditions of their original permits. In 2023, around 5,600 foreign emergency services personnel were deployed to assist in combating Canada’s wildfires, reflecting the significant international cooperation in times of crisis.
For media inquiries: Aissa Diop Director of Communications, Minister’s Office, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Aissa.Diop
