On October 4, 2023, the Canadian Government extended temporary measures for communities affected by the 2023 wildfire. To be eligible for special measures, applications for document replacement, extension, or restoration must be submitted by November 30, 2023. On June 12, 2023, the Government announced free replacement documents for Canadians and residents who lost or damaged their documents due to the fires.
Temporary residents affected by the wildfires whose status was expiring by September 30, 2023, could extend or restore their status in Canada for free.
Free replacement documents and special measures for Canadians affected by devastating wildfires
With the country undergoing an unprecedented wildfire season, the Government of Canada is acting quickly to assist communities and residents. This includes assistance for Canadians as well as individuals who are critical to the rebuilding effort.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, announced special measures for those who have been affected and need to replace crucial documents or extend or restore their status in Canada.
For Canadians, permanent residents, and temporary residents directly affected by the wildfires, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will provide free replacement documents. Permanent resident cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, Canadian passports, and other travel documents lost, damaged, destroyed, or made unusable as a result of wildfires are listed.
International students, temporary foreign workers, and other visitors whose status in Canada will expire before September 30, 2023, will also be eligible to apply, reinstate, or extend their status in Canada for free. This means that temporary workers who are unable to work because their workplace has been closed due to the fires will be able to extend their status and stay until their workplace reopens. In addition, if their classes are postponed or canceled, overseas students can extend their study permits and complete their studies without penalty.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship stated:
“We will continue to assist anyone affected by devastating wildfires across the country. These new measures will make it easier for Canadians, permanent residents, and temporary residents to replace misplaced documents. They will also assist in ensuring that temporary residents are not unfairly penalized and will be present to assist in the rebuilding of our communities. Thank you to all first responders and firefighters across the country for your ongoing courage and hard work in protecting our communities during this difficult time.”
Want to know more details about “Canada extended measures for temporary and permanent residents affected by wildfires” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates.
Tel: (416) 604-2669
Email: info@immigrationmatters.info
Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.
For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts
Get a free Assessment
Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here
All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates
