In a news release on its official page, the Ministry of Immigration stated that Canada continues to feel deep concern regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, and the scale of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

It clarified that since the terrorist attack launched by Hamas on October 7, 2023, it has been actively working to support the families of Canadians and permanent residents from the region, as well as Israelis and Palestinians who are already in Canada.

As part of these efforts, Mark Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today that Palestinians affected by the crisis who have left Gaza will receive transitional financial assistance upon their arrival in Canada.

He explained that this financial assistance will help Gaza residents meet their basic needs – such as food, clothing, and housing – when they arrive in local communities across Canada and find jobs.

More details about this program will be shared when available.

In addition to financial assistance, Gaza residents fleeing the conflict, regardless of whether they have applied to come to Canada under the special temporary immigration pathway for extended family or as regular temporary resident visa holders, will be able to access the following support in Canada:

• Three months of temporary health coverage under the federal temporary health program to help address urgent medical needs upon arrival.
• Settlement services such as language training, information about life in Canada and guidance (like assistance with enrolling children in school or opening a bank account), and information and services to help them find a job and the ability to apply for fee-exempt study or open work permits from within Canada.
• And while it remains extremely difficult for people to leave Gaza at this time, Canada is taking proactive steps to ensure that necessary support will be available for Gaza residents when they are able to arrive.