In response to the ongoing crisis in Haiti, the Government of Canada has extended special measures to support Haitian nationals and their family members until November 19, 2025. These measures, announced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aim to address the challenges faced by Haitian nationals in Canada and their families fleeing violence in Haiti.
Key Updates to the Temporary Special Measures
- Fee Waivers:
- Eligible Haitian nationals and family members can extend or change their temporary resident status without incurring fees.
- Fee exemptions also apply for obtaining or extending study permits, work permits, and temporary resident permits.
- Biometrics fees are waived under these measures.
- Passport Exemptions for Permanent Residency:
Haitian nationals unable to secure passports due to the unstable conditions in Haiti can still be approved for permanent resident visas, ensuring they can come to Canada despite the logistical hurdles. - Eligibility Criteria:
- Haitian nationals must be in Canada with valid temporary resident status and apply to extend or change their conditions as workers, students, visitors, or temporary resident permit holders.
- Family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who left Haiti on or after March 1, 2024, and arrived in Canada by April 26, 2024, are also eligible, provided they meet the requirements.
- Flexibility for Permanent Residence Applicants:
IRCC recognizes the difficulties in obtaining documentation during this crisis and allows Haitian nationals to proceed with permanent residence applications without passports or travel documents.
Background
Haiti has been in a prolonged state of crisis, exacerbated by escalating gang violence, political instability, and widespread displacement. The situation reached a critical point in March 2024, when violent gangs seized control of Port-au-Prince, leading to the resignation of the Prime Minister and the closure of the capital’s airport.
These special measures are part of Canada’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring that Haitian nationals in Canada have access to the resources they need to remain safe and rebuild their lives.
What These Measures Mean for Haitians in Canada
- Support for Temporary Residents: Haitian nationals can transition between temporary streams (e.g., from visitor to worker) without financial barriers, enabling them to better support themselves while in Canada.
- Simplified Permanent Residence Pathways: By waiving passport requirements, Canada ensures that eligible Haitians can achieve permanent residency despite administrative challenges.
- Community Support: Canada acknowledges the large Haitian diaspora in the country, which provides additional support and resources for newcomers.
Looking Ahead
The extension of these measures until November 2025 provides a much-needed lifeline for Haitian nationals and their families. As the situation in Haiti remains critical, Canada continues to emphasize compassion and inclusivity in its immigration policies.
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