Financial Assistance Available for Gazans Starting Fresh in Canada

The financial assistance program introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is designed to support Gazans as they arrive in Canada. Recognizing the immediate challenges of resettlement, the program offers one-time direct payments to help cover basic needs like food, clothing, and housing.

Here’s what you need to know about the program’s financial aid:

• $3,000 per adult
• $1,500 per child (17 years and under)

This assistance aims to provide a strong foundation for families to establish themselves in Canada while they connect with their relatives and settle into their new communities.

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility for this financial assistance is tied to the recent temporary measures for Gazans entering Canada. Specifically:

1. Palestinians who have arrived in Canada under the temporary public policy are eligible.
2. Individuals must submit their applications as soon as possible upon arrival in Canada.
3. Payments will initially cover those arriving in Canada by March 31, 2025. Future funding for arrivals beyond this date will depend on parliamentary support.

Additionally, applicants must have a Canadian bank account for direct deposit of the payments.

How to Apply

The application process for this program is straightforward, but attention to detail is essential to avoid delays:

1. Open a Canadian Bank Account: Ensure you have an active account with a Canadian financial institution, as payments will be made via direct deposit.
2. Submit Your Application: Applications must be submitted promptly upon arrival to ensure timely access to funds. Specific details about the application form and submission process are available on the IRCC website.
3. Fee Refunds: If you’ve already paid temporary resident visa (TRV) application fees or biometrics fees, you will receive a refund in the coming weeks.

Additional Support for Gazans

This financial assistance program is one of several measures introduced by IRCC to support individuals impacted by the conflict in Gaza. These include:

• Temporary Resident Pathway: Designed for Palestinian extended family members of Canadians and permanent residents, this pathway remains open until April 22, 2025, or until 5,000 TRV applications are accepted.
• Refunds for Application Fees: This includes TRV and biometrics fees, which provide further financial relief to applicants.
• Settlement Services: Upon arrival, individuals can access settlement support to aid in their integration into Canadian society.

Statistics at a Glance

To date, Canada’s efforts have demonstrated tangible results:

• 4,782 applications have been accepted into processing under the temporary pathway for Palestinian extended family in Gaza.
• 1,014 individuals who exited Gaza and had TRV applications in process have been approved to come to Canada.
• 616 individuals have already arrived in Canada under the temporary public policy.

In addition, as of January 4, 2025, an additional 473 individuals who fled Gaza with approved TRVs or temporary resident permits may also qualify for support upon their arrival.