Refugee Claim Portal

Asylum Claims

Canada is among the top five countries for asylum claims globally

According to the 2023 Asylum Claims Global Trends report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Canada ranks fifth worldwide in terms of asylum claims. With a staggering 146,800 claims out of a global total of 3.6 million, Canada continues to play a pivotal role in offering refuge to those fleeing conflict and persecution. Canada’s Role in Global Asylum Claims The UNHCR’s comprehensive report sheds light on the latest official statistics regarding refugees, internally displaced people, stateless individuals, and asylum seekers globally. The data underscores Canada’s commitment to providing a safe haven for refugees amidst an increasing number of global conflicts. Key Statistics from the 2023 Global Trends Report are:  Global Asylum Claims: 3.6 million Canada’s Share: 146,800 claims Ranking: 5th worldwide Rema Jamous Imseis, the UNHCR representative in Canada, highlighted the pressing issue of escalating war and violence, which has resulted in more people seeking safety in countries like Canada.  Success Rate of Asylum Claims in Canada Canada’s humanitarian efforts are further emphasized by its high success rate in granting asylum. In the past year, 72% of asylum seekers whose cases were reviewed in Canada were granted refugee status. This statistic not only reflects Canada’s robust asylum system but also its compassionate approach to those in need. Why is Canada a Preferred Destination? Several factors contribute to Canada being a preferred destination for asylum seekers: Stable Political Climate: Canada’s political stability provides a safe environment for refugees. Comprehensive Asylum Process: Canada’s thorough and fair asylum process ensures that genuine refugees receive the protection they need. Support Systems: Canada offers various support systems for refugees, including housing, healthcare, and education, which help them integrate into Canadian society. Global Impact and Canada’s Humanitarian Commitment As conflicts and violence continue to displace millions worldwide, Canada’s role as a sanctuary for asylum seekers is more crucial than ever. The country’s commitment to upholding human rights and providing refuge to those in need sets a global example of compassion and humanitarianism. Canada’s ranking among the top five countries for asylum claims is a testament to its unwavering dedication to helping those in need. The 2023 Global Trends report by the UNHCR highlights Canada’s significant contributions to addressing the global refugee crisis, showcasing its role as a beacon of hope and safety for asylum seekers worldwide.  Join our RSS Feed    If you want to know more details about “Canada is among the top five countries for asylum claims globally,“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

refugees

Canada recognizes and stands with refugees

On World Refugee Day, Canadian ministers, including Immigration Minister Marc Miller, took a powerful stand in solidarity with global refugees. The ministers emphasized the urgent need for action as the world faces a significant increase in the refugee population, which has tripled over the last decade. Canada’s Commitment to Resettlement Canada has long been recognized as a leading nation in refugee resettlement. On World Refugee Day, the country reaffirmed its commitment to providing a safe haven for those fleeing persecution and violence. Over the next three years, Canada plans to welcome 12,000 refugees from Africa, the Middle East, and the Asia Pacific region. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to resettle some of the world’s most vulnerable populations. Focus on Vulnerable Groups In addition to these 12,000 refugees, Canada is also dedicated to continuing its efforts to resettle various vulnerable groups. These include women at risk, survivors of violence and torture, and those with urgent medical needs. By prioritizing these groups, Canada aims to provide a lifeline to those who are often the most affected by displacement and who face the greatest barriers to safety and stability. Privately Sponsored Refugees One of the cornerstones of Canada’s refugee policy is its privately sponsored refugee program. This year, the country aims to accept 27,000 privately sponsored refugees. This program allows private citizens, community groups, and organizations to sponsor refugees, providing them with financial and emotional support as they rebuild their lives in Canada. This initiative not only increases the number of refugees who can find safety in Canada but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility among Canadians. A Model for the World Canada’s approach to refugee resettlement serves as a model for other nations. By combining government-led initiatives with private sponsorship, Canada is able to significantly increase its capacity to help at-risk populations. This dual approach ensures that refugees receive comprehensive support and that Canadian society as a whole plays an active role in the resettlement process. Increase in Refugee Numbers In 2023 alone, the global refugee population grew by 7%, reaching a staggering 43.4 million. This increase is part of a larger trend of displacement, with 117 million people forced to leave their homes due to conflict, natural disasters, and human rights violations. These numbers underscore a growing crisis that demands an immediate and sustained international response. Looking Ahead As the global refugee crisis continues to escalate, Canada’s commitment to resettlement and support for refugees is more important than ever. On World Refugee Day, the country’s leaders reiterated their dedication to this cause, emphasizing the need for ongoing action and international cooperation. By welcoming thousands of refugees from around the world and supporting them as they integrate into Canadian society, Canada is making a profound statement of compassion and solidarity. This commitment not only provides immediate relief to those in need but also strengthens the fabric of Canadian society, enriching it with diverse cultures, experiences, and perspectives. Join our RSS Feed    If you want to know more details about “Canada recognizes and stands with refugees,“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2024 Gunness & Associates

Asylum seekers

Asylum seekers receive $224 daily for food and accommodation

Asylum seekers receive $224 daily for food and accommodation during application processing . Canada is currently navigating a significant financial challenge due to the record number of asylum claimants entering the country. The cost of providing basic necessities for these claimants stands at approximately $224 per day per individual, covering food and accommodation during their application processing period. This financial burden has sparked criticism from various quarters, including Conservative MP Lianne Rood, who argues that the benefits received by asylum claimants exceed those available to Canadian seniors. The number of pending asylum claims in Canada has reached a staggering 156,032. This surge has led to the Trudeau government’s Interim Housing Assistance Program incurring substantial costs. The program, designed to offer temporary accommodations and housing solutions to around 7,000 asylum claimants, has an annual expenditure of $557 million. Despite efforts to manage the influx, such as the closure of the Roxham Road border crossing, the number of irregular border crossers remains high. By the end of 2023, there were 42,387 pending refugee claims. Since 2017, the Canadian government has processed a considerable number of asylum claims. Out of the total, 39,643 individuals have been approved as official refugees. The financial support provided to asylum seekers has drawn criticism from Conservative MP Lianne Rood. Rood points out that the daily support of $224 for claimants is notably higher than the benefits received by Canadian seniors, sparking a debate on the allocation of government resources.  The Trudeau government continues to address the complexities of the asylum system and the associated financial burdens. The ongoing high intake of asylum seekers necessitates a balanced approach to ensure both humanitarian support and fiscal responsibility. As Canada seeks to refine its policies and procedures, the dialogue between critics and policymakers remains crucial in shaping the future of the nation’s immigration and asylum framework. Join our RSS Feed    If you want to know more details about “Asylum seekers receive $224 daily for food and accommodation during application processing“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

Global Refugee Forum

Canada enhances commitments and collaborations at the Global Refugee Forum

On December 15, 2023, Canada enhanced commitments and collaborations at the Global Refugee Forum. Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), attended the Global Refugee Forum in Geneva, endorsing pledges for global refugee solutions. He announced $21 million for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to aid Afghan populations in Central Asia and Pakistan. This funding will help these countries assist the refugees.  Canada plans to resettle over 136,000 refugees in the next three years, focusing on vulnerable groups like women, ethnic and religious minorities, LGBTQI+ communities, Rohingya refugees, and human rights defenders. Canada is committed to expanding refugee labor and education pathways and co-sponsored the Securing Sustainable Futures mega-pledge for refugee education.  Canada also funds the IOM to support Mexico in managing migration due to climate change. Canada recognizes that climate change is compelling people to migrate both within and across borders. This is why the Canadian government announced funding for the IOM to assist Mexico in addressing the links between migration, disasters, climate change, and environmental degradation. The IOM will work with Mexico to create an innovative methodology for gathering data on migration, the environment, and climate change, which will then be used to inform potential policy actions by local and state governments. Canada also pledged to continue using different paths to assist more refugees and other displaced people in finding safety. This includes a pledge to turn the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot, a refugee labor mobility pathway, into a permanent economic immigration program. Canada is additionally looking into an education pathway for eligible refugee and displaced students to study in Canada, as the country continues to advocate for the creation of complementary pathways worldwide. Additionally, Canada co-sponsored the mega-pledge Securing Sustainable Futures to assist all refugee children in receiving a quality education, including access to well-supported national education systems. This co-sponsorship demonstrates Canada’s commitment to continuing to collaborate with global partners to advocate for education for refugees and local community members in host countries, as well as to amplify refugee voices. About the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot Refugee resettlement and economic immigration are combined in the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP). It’s a route that allows skilled refugees to immigrate to Canada via existing economic programs while also providing employers with access to a new pool of qualified candidates to fill job openings. Join our RSS Feed    If you want to know more details about “Canada enhances commitments and collaborations at the Global Refugee Forum” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

Afghan refugees

Canada welcomed about 2,500 Afghan refugees

On November 28, 2023, the Canadian government made an update regarding the Afghan refugees arriving in the country. The last update shows Canada has accepted 2,490 Afghan refugees since October 30, 2023.  As of now, Canada has welcomed a total of 42,905 Afghan refugees. Canada received 20,445 Afghans and their families’ applications under the Special Immigration Measures Program for Afghans who had assisted the Government of Canada in Afghanistan.  12,645 Afghans arrived in Canada under that program, and 21,635 Afghan nationals came under the Humanitarian program. In addition, Canada admitted 2,855 applicants under the pathway for extended family members of former interpreters. The Special Immigration Measures Program intends to admit 18,000 people to Canada. To be eligible for the Special Immigration Measures Program, you must meet all of the following requirements: You are an Afghan citizen. Your employment involved a significant and/or long-term relationship with the Government of Canada, which could include interpreters who worked with the Canadian Armed Forces or local staff who currently or previously worked at the Canadian Embassy in Afghanistan. You or a member of your family were in Afghanistan on or after July 22, 2021 (the start date of this special program). You are not eligible for this program if you leave Afghanistan before July 22, 2021. You are not prohibited from entering Canada. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Canada welcomed about 2,500 Afghan refugees” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

asylum claims

Canada announced a $7 million investment for asylum claims

Facing increased asylum claims and shelter pressure, Canada announced a $7 million investment for a new reception center in the Peel Region. Operated in partnership with community organizations, this center will offer services and additional shelter for asylum claimants.  The government has provided nearly $700 million to provinces and municipalities since 2017 through the Interim Housing Assistance Program (IHAP), which was extended with an additional $212 million. The federal government has procured temporary accommodations to alleviate local shelter pressure, currently housing over 7,000 asylum claimants across Canada. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship stated: “We recognize the significant challenges that provinces and municipalities, such as Peel Region, are facing as a result of the increase in asylum claims, and we will continue to work closely with them to find solutions.” Everyone has the basic right to a safe place to live, and this funding will go a long way toward alleviating the pressures in this area. We are confident that with full participation from all levels of government, we can develop long­term alternatives to the current situation for interim housing.” About the Interim Housing Assistance Program (IHAP) Interim Housing Assistance Program (IHAP) contributes to provinces and municipalities on a cost-sharing basis for the costs of interim housing for asylum seekers.  Immigration has shaped the country of Canada. With increased global migration, Canada, like many other countries, is seeing an increase in the number of people seeking asylum. While provinces and municipalities are responsible for housing and support for asylum seekers, the federal government recognizes the need for all levels of government to collaborate on solutions to address the current need, and we have been there every step of the way. On July 18, 2023, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, announced funding to ensure impacted communities have the capacity to keep vulnerable asylum claimants who want Canada’s protection a roof over their heads. This assistance will be provided through a one-time $212 million funding injection into the Interim Housing Assistance Program (IHAP), which will be extended until March 31, 2024. The City of Toronto will receive approximately $97 million in new funding. IHAP funds provinces and municipalities on a cost-sharing basis for the costs of interim housing for asylum seekers. The funding announced today is in addition to the nearly $700 million already provided by the program, including over $215 million for the City of Toronto. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Canada announced a $7 million investment for asylum seekers” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

permanent residence portal  

Refugee sponsor are now eligible to apply via permanent residence portal

On November 6, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) expanded the Permanent Residence Portal to private refugee sponsors, with government-assisted partners to follow, offering a convenient, secure, and efficient application process.  Immediate application confirmations will eliminate email delays and expedite the application process. The Refugee Sponsorship Training Program (RSTP) helps the transition with info sessions, training, and support. Sponsors must transition to the portal by December 31, 2023. From January 1, 2024, IRCC will only accept applications via the portal or mail. Benefits of the permanent residence portal This expansion allows sponsors to submit applications and referrals in a more convenient, secure, and efficient way. They will receive immediate confirmation that they have successfully submitted an application, avoiding delays and issues associated with email submissions. Online application submissions will also improve the intake process by preventing the submission of most incomplete applications. This saves time and allows IRCC officers to focus on completing applications. To assist sponsor groups in successfully transitioning to the portal, IRCC is collaborating closely with the Refugee Sponsorship Training Program (RSTP) and other partners. RSTP has held information sessions and will provide training and other support. The IRCC website also has updated instruction guides. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about the “Refugee sponsor groups are now eligible to apply through the permanent residence portal” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

instructions for biometrics

Canada updates the instructions for biometrics collection

On October 25, 2023, the Government of Canada updated instructions for biometrics collection. The Government collects the following biometrics from applicants:  biographic data,  ten fingerprints, and  a photograph.  This information is taken at a service point chosen by the applicant on behalf of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It enhances identity management and security by checking against Canadian criminal and immigration records. People aged 14-79 must provide biometrics when applying for:  temporary or permanent residence,  work or study permits,  restoration of status, or  refugee protection claims. What biometrics are obtained? information is collected from the applicant at a biometrics collection service point of their choice: Biographic data: An applicant’s name, date of birth, and other personal information as listed on the biographic data page of his or her passport or travel document.  fingerprints: The applicant’s fingerprints are captured electronically during the biometrics collection session with an electronic fingerprint-capture device. Photograph: A digital photograph of the applicant is needed. Biometric information improves identity management by anchoring a client’s identity at the time of application, and it enhances security by cross-referencing the client’s identity with Canadian criminal and immigration records. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Canada updates the instructions for biometrics collection” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment  Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

asylum claims in Canada

Why are there still increasing numbers of asylum claims in Canada?

Why are there still increasing numbers of asylum claims in Canada? In March, Roxham Road, a pathway used by many asylum seekers to enter Canada, had been closed. However, Canada has still processed over 80,000 asylum applications this year.  This is partly due to expedited visa processing and more straightforward asylum claims at airports in Montreal and Toronto. Immigration offices in Ontario and Quebec also receive inland claimants who entered Canada legally or illegally.  Part of the answer, it appears, is that Montreal and Toronto’s international airports have become magnets for asylum seekers. According to Radio-Canada, immigration officials secretly implemented a new policy to speed temporary visa processing, including eliminating the requirement for applicants to provide proof that they will leave Canada at the end of their stay. This is said to have made it simpler for persons who would typically struggle to get tourist visas to enter and then claim asylum upon arrival. This is in contrast to decades of policy characterized by strict visa requirements and airline penalties for passengers boarding with fake documents. Recently released statistics also show that immigration offices in Ontario and Quebec are receiving a large number of inland claimants: migrants who entered Canada legally or illegally and then applied for asylum; this was already happening when Roxham Road was open; in 2022, Canada received another 50,000 asylum claims from migrants who were already in the country; and the situation is similar so far this year. Asylum seekers come to Canada for its generous treatment and benefits. Still, the top source countries for migrants needing protection are Mexico and India, which are not in political upheaval or armed conflict. What are the benefits of asylum claims in Canada? Asylum seekers want to come to Canada because it is a wealthy country with unrivaled treatment, including generous benefits and almost-guaranteed citizenship for those granted protection; in many other regions, they frequently receive inadequate food and shelter and exist precariously at the mercy of host governments. However, the influx of claims in Canada is not always tied to worldwide patterns. Despite the fact that Syria, Ukraine, and Afghanistan are the leading source countries for migrants seeking international protection, Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board says that Mexico is our top source this year, with India ranking fifth. Join our RSS Feed    Want to know more details about “Why are there still increasing numbers of asylum claims in Canada” you can contact one of our immigration specialists at  Gunness & Associates.   Tel: (416) 604-2669  Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs.   For honest and straightforward advice, contact the experts at Gunness & Associates Get a free Assessment Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2023 Gunness & Associates

new refugee claim portal

Ottawa has introduced a new refugee claim portal

Ottawa introduced a new refugee claim portal Ottawa, September 13, 2022; The Canadian government has made significant efforts to improve client services, including increasing the efficiency and capacity of the government’s asylum system. Individuals in Canada who wish to file a refugee claim can do so online through the new refugee claim portal beginning September 13, 2022. The new online asylum application will take the place of the Canadian Refugee Protection Portal as the primary method for people to apply for refugee status in Canada. The new app is only available to people who are currently residents of Canada.   Get a free Assessment    Officers will be able to connect directly with clients or their legal representatives via this protected channel. Applicants will also be able to monitor the status of their applications. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is working to improve client services and refugee claim processing by making the registration and refugee intake process in inland offices more efficient. Anyone who wants to apply for refugee protection in Canada can submit their paperwork as well as the documents of their family members who are living in Canada. Once a claim is opened, applicants will have 90 days to submit it. For privacy reasons, incomplete claims that are not completed within 90 days will be removed. Individuals who began a claim via the Canadian Refugee Protection Portal on or before September 12, 2022, but have not submitted it will have until December 31, 2022, to do so. Individuals who require accommodations may continue to file a written claim.   Each request for accommodation will be considered on an individual basis. The new refugee claim portal is part of our continuing order to upgrade Canada’s immigration system, which includes a promise to hire up to 1,250 more employees by the end of this fall in order to eliminate application backlogs. Canadian immigration officers will continue to strengthen the immigration system and guarantee that it works well for everyone, including the most vulnerable people on the planet.   Stay up to date with news on the Canadian new Refugee claim Portal.   Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here   Need help?   Gunness & Associates has helped thousands of people successfully immigrate to Canada with their families. Our skilled and experienced immigration experts have the expertise to accurately examine your case and advise you on the best method of proceeding to best serve your needs. To find out more details about the process for Ottawa introducing a new refugee claim portal, you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates. Get a free Assessment  Tel: (416) 604-2669 Email: info@test.immigrationmatters.info Join our newsletter and get up-to-date immigration news Click here All rights reserved ©2022 Gunness & Associate