On May 3, 2024, Canada reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Afghan refugees, announcing the acceptance of 680 individuals over the past month alone. This update underscores Canada’s ongoing efforts to provide sanctuary to those fleeing conflict and persecution. The key figures and programs that have facilitated the resettlement of Afghan refugees in Canada.

Welcoming Afghan Refugees: Key Figures

Canada has welcomed over 40,000 refugees and vulnerable Afghans through various programs since August 2021. These initiatives include the Special Immigration Measures Program for Afghans who aided the Canadian government, a humanitarian program, and a permanent residence pathway for extended family members of former interpreters. The government continues to prioritize the processing of applications under these programs to expedite the arrival of Afghans in Canada.

Special Immigration Measures Program

Under this program, Afghan nationals who assisted the Government of Canada are eligible for government-assisted refugee status. Since its inception, Canada has received 20,565 applications, with 14,960 approvals and 14,755 individuals already arrived in the country.

Humanitarian Program

Afghan nationals arriving through the humanitarian program fall under both government-assisted refugee and privately sponsored refugee categories. This initiative, implemented in collaboration with international and Canadian partners, aims to provide refuge to those in urgent need. As of now, 23,415 Afghan nationals have arrived in Canada under this program.

Pathway for Extended Family Members

This permanent residence pathway caters to extended family members of former interpreters who have resettled in Canada. To be eligible, interpreters must already reside in Canada under specific public policies. Currently, 3,610 individuals have availed themselves of this pathway to reunite with their families in Canada.

Resettlement by Destination Province and Community

A breakdown of Afghan arrivals by destination province and community reveals the distribution of government-assisted refugees (GARs) and privately sponsored refugees (PSRs). While specific figures vary across communities, British Columbia has been a significant recipient, with cities like Abbotsford and Burnaby hosting a notable number of refugees. Canada’s commitment to welcoming Afghan refugees reflects its values of compassion, solidarity, and inclusivity.

By providing refuge to those displaced by conflict and persecution, Canada reaffirms its status as a global leader in humanitarian resettlement efforts. As the nation continues to open its doors to those in need, it reaffirms its commitment to building a diverse and inclusive society where all individuals can thrive.