Crisis Response Framework
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has developed a Crisis Response Framework (CRF) to ensure a more consistent and equitable process for Canada’s immigration responses to international crises. The CRF is a set of standard principles, objectives, tools, and procedures that help guide IRCC’s monitoring, planning, advice and implementation of potential crisis response measures.
Over the years, Canada has provided facilitative measures for affected foreign nationals in Canada (e.g., to extend their stay) and migration responses for foreign nationals overseas (e.g., through permanent or temporary programs). Building on lessons learned, the CRF includes tools to assess, develop, and implement appropriate responses, and enable coordination with provinces and territories, partners, and stakeholders. Migration responses to crises support the Government of Canada in the context of increasing global instability, and may be used alongside other government measures, including consular support, humanitarian assistance, diplomacy and other efforts.
Situations that may lead to an IRCC response
Armed conflict
For example, international armed conflict, civil war and other violent conflicts causing displacement.
Instability and human rights violations
For example, situations of widespread civil unrest, violence or violations of human rights.
Natural disasters
For example, earthquakes, hurricanes, wildfires and extreme climate-related weather events.
Core principles of the Crisis Response Framework
Risk-based
Ensuring careful assessment of risks, including humanitarian and protection needs and security considerations.
Evidence-based
Drawing from robust data and evidence, on the ground intelligence and stakeholder and partner perspectives.
Equitable
Seeking to promote an equitable approach, while respecting the unique circumstances of each situation.
Feasible
Assessing the capacity of government and implementing partners, like settlement services providers, to support a response, in alignment with immigration levels planning.
Client-centric
Ensuring responses are informed by and sensitive to the needs and realities of the clients.
Key tools and actions
Assessment Criteria
Assessment is a key element of the Crisis Response Framework. In assessing an international crisis and our capacity to respond, IRCC consistently considers the following criteria: humanitarian and protection needs; Canadian interests; equity; immigration system capacity; and operational feasibility. These criteria inform decisions on potential use of immigration measures to respond to an emerging international crisis and how to adapt existing responses as the situation changes.
Playbook
The Crisis Response Playbook includes policy and operational tools, methodologies, processes, and guidance to support implementation across all phases of a response, including crisis monitoring and planning, policy development, program design, implementation and post-arrival supports and services.
Governance and coordination
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) remains the federal lead for international emergency response. IRCC supports GAC in providing consular assistance outside of Canada for international crises affecting Canadian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family members. Beyond support for Canadians, IRCC may also provide temporary facilitation or permanent migration pathways for individuals affected by crises. Such measures are among the responses that the Government of Canada may offer to those affected by conflicts and other situations across the globe. IRCC relies on other government departments like Public Safety and security agencies, as well as other partners involved in immigration, to implement any such responses.
The Crisis Response Framework promotes coordination with provinces and territories, partners and stakeholders through collaboration and clear communication.
More information on current crisis response efforts
Special measures for immigration, citizenship and passports
These special measures are part of the Government of Canada’s efforts to support those affected by conflicts, crises, natural hazards and other situations in and outside Canada. They go beyond IRCC’s regular programs to address the urgent needs of people facing extraordinary circumstances.