Canada provides more immigration assistance to people in Lebanon

Canada has decided to offer extra immigration support to Lebanese nationals after the tragic explosion in Beirut last month. The Government of Canada released its plans for the new immigration measures on September 3rd so that Lebanese nationals find it easier to make their way to Canada.

It has been a few weeks since Canada introduced an immigration task force that will support Lebanese individuals who have been impacted by the explosion, and they are living up to their promise. The Canadian government will give priority to travel documents for permanent residents and Canadian citizens in Lebanon. They will also look to waive some fees so that these individuals can return to Canada as smoothly as possible.

How to avail help?

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will also be prioritizing visitor visa applications submitted by immediate family members of permanent residents and Canadian citizens who have been personally affected by the Beirut explosion. By immediate family members, the Canadian government refers to spouses, dependent children, common-law partners, and parents or step-parents.

IRCC has invited individuals who need assistance to go through its dedicated webpage in order to find out if they are eligible for any of the special measures that Canada has taken.

Individuals will be able to send all their questions directly to IRCC after reading the webpage. They can hope to get responses to their questions within five business days. Individuals who want to qualify for the new measures should:

• Submit their application between September 3rd, 2020 and January 31, 2021
• Follow all the instructions given by IRCC
• Live in an area that has been affected at the time of the explosion if you want to apply as an immediate family member of a permanent citizen or a Canadian citizen
• Give proof that the explosion impacted you personally