Canadian Minister of Immigration, Marc Miller, announced on Monday that Canada will significantly increase the number of temporary resident visa (TRV) applications it accepts from residents of Gaza, Palestine.
The decision follows Canada’s response to the crisis in Gaza, which included special measures for extended family members. These measures are specifically for Palestinians residing in Gaza who are related to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident planning to live in Canada and will be supported by the Canadian citizen for a year. In most cases, temporary residents will be allowed to stay for up to three years, provided their passport and biometrics are valid.
Initially, the program had allotted 1,000 temporary visas, but due to high demand, this number was increased to 5,000. Currently, 448 Gazans have been issued a TRV, but only 41 have arrived in Canada so far. Minister Miller expressed concern for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza but remained optimistic about the Canadian government’s efforts, saying, “While movement out of Gaza is not currently possible, the situation may change at any time. With this cap increase, we will be ready to help more people as the situation evolves. Our focus remains on keeping families together.”
Gaza residents seeking to reunite with family in Canada must first obtain approval from Israeli authorities to leave Gaza, followed by biometric screening in Egypt.
Earlier this month, Israel’s military took control of the Gaza side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt as part of its offensive in the southern city.
Minister Miller emphasized the crucial roles of Israel and Egypt in implementing these measures and facilitating family reunification in Canada. He stated:
“Canada continues to submit the names of those who have passed preliminary screening to local authorities to arrange their exit from Gaza. Israel and Egypt are both vital partners in implementing these temporary, humanitarian measures and facilitating family reunification in Canada. Canada is actively working to facilitate the departure of extended family members and advocating for their safety. Our commitment to ensuring people’s safety remains steadfast.”
However, concerns have been raised about the increase in TRVs following the recent reduction of temporary immigration visas (TIV) in March, due to resource constraints in the country.