Toronto 
A new temporary resident pathway for Palestinians in Gaza is now open to apply.
Credit: Jason Hafso/ Unsplash
In response to the escalating conflict in Gaza, the federal government, acknowledging the concerns of Canadian citizens about the safety of their family members in the region, recently initiated a new temporary resident pathway.
The pathway allows Palestinians in Gaza affected by the crisis, allowing them to seek temporary refuge in Canada.
This temporary resident visa policy is subject to a cap of 1,000 applications or until January 9, 2025, whichever is earlier. Applicants must meet certain conditions, such as holding a Palestinian Territory passport and being in Gaza at the time of application submission.
Canadian Citizens/Residents Who Can Apply:
Canadian citizens or permanent residents (referred to as ‘anchor’) who are currently living in Canada can apply for their extended family members residing in Gaza. Necessary documents to prove relationships include birth certificates, baptismal certificates, or other official documents like family books or civil registration documents.
Eligibility for this policy requires the anchor to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, residing in Canada, and not subject to any removal orders or serious criminal convictions. The anchor must also not be in default of any sponsorship undertakings or court-ordered support payments, and not be an undischarged bankrupt.
The family member who applies is expected to provide comprehensive support, including financial, housing, and orientation to life in Canada, without seeking any financial compensation from the applicant.
Gazans Eligible to Apply:
Family members (Gazans) eligible for a temporary resident visa (TRV) should be an extended family of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Two groups are eligible to apply. The first group includes extended family of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Eligibility criteria include holding a passport from the Palestinian Authority, being in Gaza when applying, and being an eligible ‘anchor’s’ spouse, common-law partner, child (of any age), grandchild, parent, grandparent, or sibling (including half and adopted siblings). Group 2 consists of family members of individuals in Group 1, defined as spouses, common-law partners, dependent children (including those of a spouse or partner), and dependent grandchildren. All who apply must not be inadmissible for non-financial reasons.
Per the news release, applicants who manage to exit Gaza must meet all Canadian admissibility requirements, including biometric verification.
Upon arrival in Canada, these individuals are eligible to apply for a fee-exempt study or work permit. They will also receive three months of health coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program and have access to settlement services, including language training and employment support.
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has established a dedicated service channel for inquiries related to these special measures, accessible globally at 613-321-4243, accepting collect calls.
