Ottawa, July 22, 2024 — The 2024 wildfire season has been one of the most devastating on record, severely impacting communities across Canada. As the climate crisis intensifies, Canada’s commitment to supporting those affected by such disasters remains steadfast. In response to the recent wildfires, the Government of Canada, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), has announced significant measures to assist individuals whose lives have been disrupted.
Special Measures for Affected Individuals
To help Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have been directly impacted by the wildfires, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has introduced a range of support measures. These include:
- Free Replacement Documents: Individuals whose permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, Canadian passports, or other travel documents have been lost, damaged, destroyed, or rendered inaccessible due to the wildfires can now obtain replacements at no cost. This initiative aims to alleviate some of the burdens faced by those who have lost vital documents in the chaos.
- Transition to Open Work Permits: For those holding employer-specific work permits, the government is providing the opportunity to transition to an open work permit. This measure will help individuals who are unable to continue working due to wildfire-related disruptions.
These special measures are in effect until November 30, 2024, providing ample time for affected individuals to address their documentation needs while focusing on recovery and rebuilding their lives.
Support for Temporary Residents
In addition to the above measures, the Government of Canada is extending support to international students, temporary foreign workers, and other visitors affected by the wildfires. Specifically:
- Restoration and Extension of Status: Those whose status is set to expire by November 30, 2024, can restore or extend their status free of charge. This is particularly beneficial for temporary foreign workers whose employment may be interrupted due to wildfire impacts, and for international students facing delays or cancellations in their studies.
- Document Replacement: Temporary residents who need to replace status documents affected by the wildfires can do so without incurring additional costs.
Support for Emergency Services Personnel
To acknowledge and facilitate the critical efforts of foreign emergency services personnel entering Canada to combat the wildfires, the government has also exempted them from paying application and biometrics fees. This gesture is both a token of gratitude and a practical measure to support their vital work in addressing the crisis.
How to Access These Measures
For detailed information on eligibility, application processes, and the types of replacement documents covered under these special measures, individuals are encouraged to visit the IRCC website. The resources provided will guide you through the steps required to benefit from these support measures.
The Canadian government’s response to the 2024 wildfire season underscores its commitment to assisting those in need during challenging times. By providing free replacement documents and extending support to those affected, including temporary residents and emergency services personnel, Canada continues to demonstrate resilience and solidarity in the face of climate-induced disasters.
For more information, please visit IRCC’s website or contact your local immigration office.
Stay safe, and let us work together towards recovery and rebuilding.
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🌟 Important Update: Support for Those Affected by the 2024 Wildfire Season 🌟
In response to the unprecedented 2024 wildfire season, the Government of Canada is offering vital support to those impacted. Here’s what you need to know:
🔥 Free Replacement Documents: If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident whose documents (permanent resident cards, citizenship certificates, passports, etc.) were lost, damaged, or destroyed due to wildfires, you can get replacements at no cost.
🌍 Work Permit Adjustments: Employer-specific work permit holders affected by wildfires can transition to an open work permit to help you continue working despite disruptions.
📚 Support for Temporary Residents: International students, temporary foreign workers, and other visitors can extend or restore their status free of charge if their status is expiring by November 30, 2024. This includes extensions for study permits and work permits if your classes or job are impacted by the fires.
🚒 Emergency Services Personnel: Foreign emergency services personnel coming to Canada to fight wildfires are exempt from application and biometrics fees as a thank you for their critical work.
These measures are in effect until November 30, 2024, providing ample time for you to sort out any documentation or status issues. For more details on eligibility and application procedures, visit the IRCC website or contact your local immigration office.
Together, we can overcome these challenges and support each other through recovery. Stay safe and take care!
🔗 More Information: IRCC’s Website
