The recent wildfires across Canada have caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. It has also displaced many people from their communities.
To help those affected by the wildfires, the Government of Canada has introduced temporary special measures on immigration, passports, and citizenship. These measures will help people to replace lost or damaged documents and to extend or restore their temporary resident status.
Who is eligible?
The temporary special measures are available to anyone who is directly affected by the wildfires. This includes people who have lost their homes or businesses, or who have been evacuated from their communities.
How to apply
To apply for the temporary special measures, you can visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or contact the IRCC Call Centre. You will need to provide proof that you have been directly affected by the wildfires.
What are the benefits?
The temporary special measures offer a number of benefits, including:
- Free replacement of citizenship, immigration, and travel documents (including passports) that have been lost, damaged, or destroyed
- Extension or restoration of temporary resident status
How long will the temporary special measures be in place?
The temporary special measures will be in place until September 30, 2023.
How to get help
If you have any questions about the temporary special measures, you can visit the IRCC website or contact the IRCC Call Centre.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- You do not need to pay any fees to apply for the temporary special measures.
- You do not need to have a lawyer to apply for the temporary special measures.
- If you are unable to apply for the temporary special measures yourself, you can ask a friend or family member to help you.
The Government of Canada is committed to helping those affected by the wildfires. These temporary special measures will help people to get back on their feet and to rebuild their lives.
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