As of September 9, 2024, Canada has accepted an additional 475 Afghan refugees since August 7, 2024, continuing its commitment to supporting those fleeing Afghanistan. With this recent intake, the total number of Afghan refugees welcomed to Canada now stands at 54,165 since August 2021. These individuals have arrived through various special immigration programs that prioritize the safety and resettlement of vulnerable Afghans and their families.
Overview of Special Immigration Programs
Canada has implemented several targeted programs to facilitate the resettlement of Afghan nationals. These initiatives include:
The Special Immigration Measures Program: Designed for Afghans who assisted the Canadian government during its mission in Afghanistan.
A Humanitarian Program: For refugees fleeing from dangerous situations.
The Permanent Residence Pathway: For extended family members of Afghan interpreters who resettled in Canada under earlier immigration policies.
These programs ensure that refugees are provided with a safe and structured pathway to begin their new lives in Canada.
Special Immigration Measures Program: Supporting Those Who Helped Canada
One of the core elements of Canada’s response is the Special Immigration Measures Program, which provides refuge to Afghans who work alongside the Canadian government. Since the program began:
20,605 applications have been received.
15,455 applications have been approved.
15,325 Afghans have arrived in Canada through this program.
The Special Immigration Measures Program remains a critical channel for ensuring the safe resettlement of those who made significant contributions to Canada’s efforts in Afghanistan.
Humanitarian Program: A Lifeline for Vulnerable Afghans
In addition to the Special Immigration Measures, the Humanitarian Program continues to help vulnerable Afghans find safety in Canada. This program, supported by trusted international and Canadian partners, has brought 23,845 Afghan nationals to Canada since it began. Unlike the Special Immigration Measures Program, this initiative does not accept direct applications but works with partners to identify eligible individuals.
Pathway for Extended Family Members of Former Interpreters
The Permanent Residence Pathway for Extended Family Members offers an opportunity for family members of Afghan interpreters, who resettled in Canada between 2009 and 2012, to join their relatives. So far, 3,995 Afghans have arrived in Canada under this program.
This pathway plays an essential role in reuniting families and providing stability to those who supported Canadian forces during their mission in Afghanistan.
Refugee Resettlement by Province and Community
Afghan refugees have been resettled across various provinces and communities in Canada. British Columbia, for example, has welcomed a significant number of refugees, with communities like Abbotsford accepting 495 individuals, including 470 government-assisted refugees (GARs) and 25 privately sponsored refugees (PSRs).
Other communities, such as Burnaby and Coquitlam, have also contributed to the resettlement efforts, with 310 and 140 refugees arriving, respectively.
However, there are 70 individuals whose destination communities could not be confirmed. Despite this, Canada’s efforts to resettle Afghan refugees continue to demonstrate the country’s strong commitment to humanitarian support.
Canada’s Continued Commitment to Afghan Refugees
With 54,165 Afghan refugees now resettled in Canada under various programs, the Canadian government remains committed to helping those in need. These efforts, supported by the Special Immigration Measures, Humanitarian Program, and Permanent Residence Pathway, are vital in offering safety and a new beginning to vulnerable Afghans. As Canada continues to process applications on a priority basis, it solidifies its role as a global leader in refugee protection and support.
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