Canada announced on Thursday temporary immigration programs for the relatives of Canadian citizens and permanent residents affected by the Gaza conflict.
However, it cautioned that leaving the region would be challenging and contingent on Israel’s approval.
Minister of Immigration, Mark Miller, stated during a press conference that the measures include expanding the eligibility criteria used by Canada to bring citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members out of the region.
“This … allows us a greater set of people that may not be permanent residents or Canadians but for all intents and purposes represent the family of people that are close to Canadians,” Miller added.
Miller further explained that hundreds of people could benefit from the program. The government reported that as of December 3rd, over 600 people evacuated from Gaza had arrived in Canada.
Family members, such as siblings, grandchildren, and grandparents, will be able to apply to join a special program. After assessments, they may become eligible to live in Canada for up to three years.
The measures also include permits for studying or working for Israelis and Palestinians already in Canada, as well as family members of citizens and permanent residents who left the region since October 7th.
Miller cautioned that leaving the besieged enclave would be extremely challenging, adding that Ottawa has no guarantees from Israel.
“Israelis have their say, they will screen people and decide whether they leave or don’t leave,” Miller said. “We don’t have any assurances as of yet and it will be a discussion that we will have to have.”
Canada’s response to the Gaza conflict reflects its commitment to humanitarian efforts, providing support to those affected by the crisis in the region.
