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Canada is an excellent option if you're a refugee from Ukraine, Syria, or another country looking for a safe new home. With its strong economy, world-class education system, and generous refugee policies, Canada is an excellent place for refugees to settle and build a new life. On top of this, Canada is famous for its diverse, warm and welcoming culture toward immigrants and refugees alike.
Canada has a history of settling refugees dating back to 1776, and the Canadian government accepted 92,715 refugees between January and December 2022. As a result, not only is Canada a perfect option for the many benefits you will obtain once you arrive on Canadian soil, but it can be far easier to qualify for refugee status in Canada compared to nations of a similar standard.
This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to move to Canada as a refugee. We'll cover the refugee system in Canada, the various refugee sponsorship programs, the country's entry, and how to apply for refugee status, access healthcare, find employment, and get an education. We'll also share some tips and strategies to ensure a smooth transition to life in Canada.
The Refugee System in Canada
Canada has a long history of welcoming refugees and has established an official refugee system to help those seeking a safe new home. The Canadian refugee system is based on international and domestic laws, as well as Canada's humanitarian commitment to protect those who are fleeing violence and persecution in their home countries.
Under the Canadian refugee system, refugees can apply for asylum in Canada either directly to the government or through a private sponsor. Canada's government also has several programs to help refugees settle and integrate into their new homes.
If you've come to Canada as a refugee, you're allowed to work in Canada with a Work permit. You could apply separately if you submitted your refugee claim before applying for a work permit.
Here's a full breakdown of how to apply for a Canadian work permit. However, to apply for a work permit as a refugee, there are a few extra steps you must take.
When uploading your documentation as part of your application, you must include a copy of your Refugee Protection Claimant document and proof that:
- You’ve completed your immigration medical exam
- You need a job in Canada to cover your basic needs
- The family members you're requesting permits for are:
- In Canada
- Applying for Refugee status
You must ensure the Canadian government always has your current address to avoid delays.
On top of this, as a refugee, you can study while in Canada, provided you get a Canadian study permit. To obtain a study permit, you must have an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) before you apply.
Here's a full breakdown of the Canadian study permit, eligibility requirements, and how to apply to get you started.
If you have an acceptance letter, you can apply for a study permit while you apply for refugee status. You can also include your acceptance letter with your application for refugee status to maximize your chances of being accepted.
Your family members can qualify for Canadian study permits if they apply for refugee status. However, if your members are school-age children, they don't need a study permit to go to school.
Canadian Refugee Protection Programs
The Canadian refugee system has two main parts. The first is the Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program which is explicitly designed for UN- or privately-funded sponsors to help resettle international refugees in Canada.
The second is the In-Canada Asylum Program, which s explicitly designed for refugees who are already in Canada on a visa like a Canada tourist visa but are unable to return to their country due to issues of safety.
The Refugee and Humanitarian Resettlement Program
In addition to the government's refugee system, several private sponsorship programs are available to refugees applying from outside Canada who wish to move to Canada. This program is designed to help refugees find housing, employment, and other services to help them get settled in their new homes.
Many refugees in Canada are resettled via private sponsorship programs. These programs are usually organized by private citizens, churches, community organizations, and other groups to provide financial and emotional support to refugees to help them adjust to their new homes.
These sponsors are matched to refugees identified by the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and private sponsors by the Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) Program. The refugees can be sponsored by several different sponsors, such as:
- Sponsorship Agreement Holders
- These are often private citizens or groups who have signed sponsorship agreements with the Government of Canada to be allowed to support refugees, often on an ongoing basis.
- Groups of Five
- This is a group of at least five Canadian citizens or permanent residents who can sponsor a refugee from outside Canada to move to Canada.
- Community Sponsors
- Community organizations are designated to sponsor refugees to come to Canada.
The Canadian government carefully screens all resettlement cases to ensure no security, legal, or health issues.
Moving to Canada via this program means you cannot apply directly to the Canadian government site. You must apply to the UNHCR, a designated referral organization or a private sponsorship group.
In-Canada Asylum Program
The asylum program works to provide refugee protection to people in Canada who cannot return to their home country due to at risk of torture or cruel or unusual punishment in their home countries based on factors like
- Race
- Religion
- Political opinion
- Nationality
- Belonging to a particular social group, such as women or the LGBTQ+ community
This means they have a well-founded fear of persecution upon their return.
However, this option is only open to certain people. If an asylum seeker has been convicted of serious criminal offences in the past or has had previous refugee claims denied, they will be ineligible for this program. While these are the main two reasons applicants may be rejected from this program, they will also be dismissed if:
Your refugee claim may not be eligible for this program if you:
- Have gained Convention refugee status in another country that you can return to
- Have protected person status in Canada
- Passed through the Canada-United States border
- Have made a confirmed refugee claim in another country
- Are inadmissible to Canada
- Have abandoned or withdrew from a past refugee claim
How to Apply for Refugee Status in Canada
The process for refugee status is straightforward and can be broken down into three simple steps.
Step 1: Ensure Your Eligibility
Before you begin the application process, you must ensure you fulfill all the eligibility criteria mentioned above. Suppose you are still determining whether or not you fulfill all of the requirements. In that case, you should get a complete online or offline evaluation from a certified immigration expert to help you know your eligibility for certain.
Step 2: Fill Out Your Application Forms
First, you must fill out an application form available on the Government of Canada website or from the specific organization through which you are applying for refugee status. You must provide detailed information about your identity, background, and reasons for seeking refuge in Canada.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once your application is complete, you must submit it to one of Canada's Refugee Processing Centres. The processing centre will review your application and decide whether or not to grant you refugee status.
While this process may seem simple, ensuring you fulfill all of the eligibility requirements and follow each process step can be challenging. As time is of the essence, one of the best ways to guarantee your refugee status is to get help from a certified immigration expert like a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
RCICs can evaluate you to ensure you're eligible for your chosen program, fill out your application forms and help you deal with any regulatory bodies so you can get your start in Canada.
Why Canada is Perfect for Refugees
Canada is famous for its world-class infrastructure, picturesque natural beauty, vibrant cities and warm culture. However, as a refugee, there are far more essential benefits to life in Canada that make it perfect for resettlement.
Canada has numerous government programs to help newcomers settle quickly into life in Canada and has a special set of programs for refugees. Two of these are as follows.
Resettlement Assistance Program
The Government of Canada gives resettlement help to Convention Refugees, including refugees with special needs and government-assisted refugees.
The Canadian government provides funds to give refugees the following:
- Government assistance at the airport or port of entry
- A temporary place to live in Canada
- Support with finding a permanent place to live
- Basic household items and
- Support with your early days in Canada.
You're also allowed to support yourself off the assistance program until you find a job in Canada or up to a year.
Here's a breakdown of how to get a job in Canada to help you start as early as possible.
Resettlement Assistance Program rates differ depending on the province you're moving to, so it's vital to know precisely how much to expect and how to prepare for it effectively. You can find the Resettlement Assistance Program rates on the Refugee Sponsorship Training Program's website.
To help you budget effectively, once you know your rates, here's a breakdown of the cost of living in Canada.
Immigration Loans Program
The Immigration Loans Program provides financial help to refugees selected for resettlement. The Canadian government provides you with a loan to help cover the cost of moving to Canada and whatever additional settlement costs you need once you arrive.
You must repay your loan monthly once you have lived in Canada for 12 months.
Outside of fantastic government programs, there are several perks to life in Canada. Just a few are as follows:
Safety
According to the World Population Review, Canada is one of the safest countries in the world to live in. this is due to decades of political and economic stability coupled with a lack of outside enemies, low crime rates and a culture of kindness.
Learn more about Canada's world-class safety here
Public Healthcare
Once you receive refugee status in Canada, you will be eligible for healthcare coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program. This program provides access to essential healthcare services, including doctor's visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.
If a private group or organization sponsors you, you may also be eligible for additional healthcare coverage, such as extended health benefits.
It's important to note that healthcare coverage for refugees is limited and may not cover all medical costs. Therefore, it's crucial to have a plan in place to cover any additional medical expenses.
Learn more about Canada's healthcare system here.
The Canadian Job Market
Canada's job market is booming. As it currently stands, there are over a million jobs nationwide. Finding employment is essential in settling into Canada. Refugees who have been granted refugee status in Canada are eligible to work in the country, but they may face some challenges in finding employment.
Fortunately, many resources are available to help refugees find employment. For example, the Government of Canada's "Jobs for Refugees" program provides access to job postings and resources to help refugees find work. In addition, several private organizations offer job search assistance to refugees.
Publicly-funded Education
Refugees who have been granted refugee status in Canada can access free education at the primary and secondary levels. In addition, refugees may be eligible for financial assistance to help cover the cost of post-secondary education.
The Government of Canada also offers programs to help refugees access post-secondary education, such as the Canada Student Loans Program and the Canada Student Grants Program. In addition, several private organizations offer refugees scholarships and other financial aid.
Learn more about Canada's education system here.
A Welcoming, Diverse Culture
Canada is also home to a world-renowned level of kindness and inclusivity, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world. Over 270 languages are spoken throughout Canada, and the country welcomes internationals with open arms.
Learn more about Canada's multicultural, friendly nature here.
Tips and Strategies for a Smooth Move to Canada
Moving to Canada as a refugee can be daunting, but you can make the transition smoother. Here are some tips and strategies to keep in mind:
Research your Options
It's essential to research your options before making any decisions. Ensure you understand the requirements for entering Canada as a refugee and the various refugee sponsorship programs and other services available to refugees.
Have a Plan
Once you clearly understand your options, it's crucial to have a plan in place for your move to Canada. Make sure you have a timeline for applying for refugee status, finding employment, and accessing healthcare and education services.
Prepare for the Move
Before moving to Canada, preparing for the transition is essential. First, ensure you have all the documents and other materials for your refugee application.
Utilize Resources
Many resources are available to help refugees settle in Canada. Make sure you take advantage of the government programs and services and the private organizations that offer support and assistance.
Stay Informed
It's essential to stay knowledgeable about the latest developments in Canadian refugee policy. So make sure you read up on the latest news and developments related to refugee issues in Canada.
One of the best ways to use all of these tips is to utilize the services of an RCIC. Here are some ways an RCIC can help you with your progress.
FAQs
What Happens if My Refugee Application is Rejected?
If your application is rejected, you can appeal it with the Refugee Appeal Division (RAD). The Rad considers appeals against the Refugee Protection Division (RPD) decisions to allow or reject refugee protection claims.
How can Refugees in Canada Access Healthcare Services?
Refugees in Canada are entitled to the same healthcare services as Canadian citizens. In most provinces, refugees can access healthcare services provided by provincial or territorial health insurance plans.
Additionally, many provinces and territories offer special healthcare programs that provide access to basic healthcare services to refugees and other vulnerable groups in Canada.
What Kind of Legal Rights do Refugees in Canada Have?
Refugees in Canada are entitled to the same legal rights as Canadian citizens, including the right to a fair trial, freedom of movement, and the right to vote. Additionally, refugees are protected from discrimination based on race, religion, sex, or national origin. Refugees also have the right to access legal aid and information on their rights and responsibilities under Canadian law.
Start a Great Future in Canada
If you're looking for a safe, friendly environment with plenty of opportunities for a better life, Canada is the perfect home for you.
If you're a refugee looking for a safe new home, consider seeking professional advice and support. An RCIC can help you understand the refugee system in Canada and provide advice and guidance on the steps you need to take to settle in your new home.
If you're a refugee looking for a safe new home, contact one of our RCICs to start your journey to Canada. Our RCICs have the expertise and knowledge to ensure that your move to Canada is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
