The Canadian government has announced that it will waive the fees for study permits, open work permits, or status extensions for Haitians with temporary resident status in Canada. This decision comes amid worsening violence in Haiti and aims to provide support to those who may be affected by the ongoing crisis in the country. The federal government also stated that family members of Canadians, regardless of nationality, who arrived as temporary residents through assisted departures out of Haiti will also be eligible for these fee waivers.
In addition to waiving fees, the government will also provide three months of Interim Federal Health Program coverage to those who are eligible for the fee waivers. This additional support is intended to make it easier for family members of Canadians who fled Haiti to stay in Canada with their families. Furthermore, it will enable Haitian nationals to work and study in a safe environment while they are in Canada. Immigration Minister Marc Miller expressed deep concern for the well-being of people in Haiti and stated that these measures will help support those who have been impacted by the violence and political instability in their home country.
According to the government, there are approximately 44,000 Haitian nationals in Canada with temporary resident status. The situation in Haiti has been marked by rampant gang violence and a political vacuum, with a new prime minister being named by the country’s transitional council at the end of April. The ongoing unrest and instability in Haiti have prompted many to seek refuge in Canada, and the Canadian government’s decision to waive fees for study permits, open work permits, and status extensions is seen as a step towards providing support and assistance to those affected by the crisis.
The fee waivers and additional support provided by the Canadian government are part of a broader effort to address the needs of individuals from Haiti who are currently living in Canada on a temporary basis. By eliminating financial barriers to obtaining study or work permits, the government aims to facilitate the integration of Haitian nationals into Canadian society and provide them with opportunities to build a better future for themselves and their families. The government’s commitment to supporting those who have been forced to flee their home country due to violence and insecurity reflects Canada’s values of compassion, inclusion, and solidarity with individuals in need.
Overall, the Canadian government’s decision to waive fees for study permits, open work permits, or status extensions for Haitians with temporary resident status in Canada demonstrates a commitment to providing support and assistance to those affected by the crisis in Haiti. By easing financial burdens and providing additional health coverage, the government aims to help Haitian nationals living in Canada to rebuild their lives in a safe and stable environment. This initiative reflects Canada’s ongoing efforts to support refugees and vulnerable populations around the world and demonstrates a commitment to upholding humanitarian values and principles in times of crisis.
