Canada is providing temporary safe haven for Palestinians in Gaza who have Canadian family members, as well as additional support for those already in Canada. These new special measures are now open for applications.

Eligible applicants must live in Gaza and be related to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who lives in Canada. Eligible extended family members may include a spouse or common-law partner, child (of any age), grandchild, grandparent, parent, or sibling.

Applicants may apply for a visa of up to three years and will be eligible to apply for a fee-exempt study permit or open work permit upon arrival in Canada. Furthermore, those who are eligible and already in Canada may also apply under these new measures for a fee-exempt study permit or open work permit.

Steps:

1. Gather the necessary documents: this includes the statutory declaration form and the consent form to disclose personal information, which must be completed by the anchor (Canadian family member), as well as the required documents from the applicant.
2. Complete the IRCC crisis web form with the following: 
   • Under "what do you need to do" select the option "Gaza special measures-Apply for a temporary resident visa for extended family members."
   • Complete all required fields in the form and provide the full name of and application details for each applicant under the 'tell us about your situation' question.
   • Make sure to upload all required documents and submit once completed.
   • You should receive a special reference number for your application within a few days.
3. Apply for the temporary resident visa using the IRCC portal
   • Make sure to include the reference code received from the crisis webform, as well as all required documents.

If you have already applied for a visa, please complete the IRCC crisis webform and request to be considered under the new measures.

Approved applicants will need to leave Gaza through the Rafah border crossing, which must be approved by the local governments in the region. Canada does not control access through the border and is working with our international partners to secure passage. Applicants will be informed by Global Affairs when they have the opportunity to depart. Upon arrival in Egypt, applicants who need to get their biometrics will be required to do so.

For more information, please visit the dedicated IRCC webpage. Residents in Mississauga-Erin Mills can contact our office for further details and support. IRCC has also established a dedicated phone line to provide support: 613-321-4243.