IRCC processes temporary special measures permits in Gaza. It is increasing the number of applications accepted into processing for the same.
Last January, the department declared that it would process 1,000 applications for temporary resident visas for applicants presently in Gaza who are family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. On May 27, Immigration Minister Marc Miller released a statement saying that the processing would extend to 5,000 applications.
He further stated that IRCC has issued more web codes for clients to apply for a TRV over the past few weeks. He acknowledged that movement out of Gaza is not presently possible and that the situation might change at any time. With this cap increase, the authorities will be ready to help more people as the situation evolves. The main focus is primarily on keeping the families together.
In addition, IRCC is providing local authorities with the names of those who have passed preliminary screening to help secure their exit from Gaza.
Who Is Eligible?
IRCC processes temporary special measures permits in Gaza. According to the most recent available data, applicants should meet the criteria for one of two groups to be considered for the TRV. Individuals considered in Group 1 should:
- Have a passport/ travel document issued by the Palestinian Authority
- Be in the Gaza Strip on the day their application is submitted
- Have an eligible anchor
- Be the anchor’s:
- Child
- Spouse
- Parent
- Grandparent
- Grandchild
- Sibling
- Not be admissible to Canada for reasons other than financial ones
There is also a group for family members of those who meet the Group 1 criteria. The department defines family members as:
- A spouse/ common-law partner
- A dependent child
- Dependent child of a dependent child
Lastly, eligible anchors must meet the following criteria:
- Canadian citizens/ permanent residents
- 18 years of age or older
- Related to the person described under Group 1
- Intending to live in Canada
- Willing to support the applicant and their family members for one year to help them settle and integrate into Canada
The department notes that some applicants might require a medical exam if they have been in any designated nations/ territories for six months in a row within the year before they plan to enter Canada. The exam can be completed after leaving Gaza.
How To Apply
Eligible applicants must submit a statutory declaration form and consent form to disclose personal information.
When that stage is complete, candidates should submit a web crisis form from each family unit, including the Group 1 applicant and their family members. Every person listed in the statutory declaration form will obtain a unique web reference code.
IRCC advises that once a code is achieved, applicants must submit their final TRV application quickly, as a code does not guarantee a space.