The Government of Canada is renewing its commitment to support individuals impacted by the ongoing conflict in Sudan by increasing refugee resettlement efforts and expanding the family-based permanent residence pathway. Over the next two years, Canada will welcome more than 7,000 additional people affected by the crisis.
Key Announcements
- Increased Refugee Resettlement
- Canada will resettle up to 4,000 Sudanese government-assisted refugees by the end of 2026.
- An additional 700 Sudanese refugees will be supported through private sponsorship.
- This includes 350 Sudanese nationals privately sponsored by groups of five and community sponsors, who will no longer require a refugee status determination document.
- Expansion of the Family-Based Permanent Residence Pathway
- The number of applications accepted will increase from 3,250 to over 5,000, allowing Canada to welcome approximately 10,000 people under this program.
- The requirement for the Canadian sponsor (“anchor”) to reside outside Quebec has been removed.
- New applications will be accepted starting February 25, 2025.
Canada’s Commitment to Humanitarian Assistance
- Since the conflict began on April 15, 2023, Canada has:
- Resettled 1,360 Sudanese refugees in need of protection.
- Approved 12,815 people affected by the conflict for travel to Canada on either a permanent or temporary basis.
- Allocated over $100 million in humanitarian aidto support Sudan and neighboring countries.
Changes to the Humanitarian Family Pathway:
- Applications that were previously returned due to the 3,250 application cap in 2024 will now be reconsidered.
- Until April 17, 2025, 500 application spaces will be reserved for applicants with sponsors (“anchors”) in Quebec.
Why This Matters
- Prioritizing Vulnerable Groups– Canada will focus on resettling women, children, and individuals at risk of persecution or violence.
- Keeping Families Together– The expansion of the family-based pathway ensures that more Sudanese families can reunite safely in Canada.
- Strengthening Canada’s Role in Global Humanitarian Efforts– This renewed commitment reinforces Canada’s long-standing tradition of refugee resettlement and humanitarian assistance.
Next Steps for Applicants
- Sudanese refugees seeking resettlement through government or private sponsorship should stay updated for further details on eligibility and application procedures.
- Family members of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can begin submitting applications under the expanded family-based pathway starting February 25, 2025.
- Applicants previously denied due to capacity limits may be eligible under the newly expanded humanitarian family pathway.
Need Help Applying?
At Fridman and Company, we specialize in humanitarian pathways, and permanent residence applications. If you need assistance applying for these newly expanded immigration measures, contact us at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca for expert legal support.
For more details, visit the Government of Canada website or reach out to our team for personalized guidance.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored guidance, consult an immigration lawyer.