Accelerated process for welcoming privately sponsored Syrian refugees to Canada
Backgrounder
Privately sponsored refugees typically come to Canada through Sponsorship Agreement Holders, Groups of Five or Community Sponsors who will provide financial, social and emotional support for one year.
Identification
- Refugees are most often identified by family or friends already in Canada.
- Sponsorship applications are submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Immigration Interview
- Refugees complete their application for resettlement.
- Identity is confirmed and refugees are interviewed by Canadian immigration officials.
- Protection and special needs are determined.
Thorough Security Screening
- Interviews
- Biometric and biographic collection
- Database checks
Comprehensive Immigration Medical Exam
- Medical history
- Health exam
- X-rays to check for tuberculosis
- Lab tests for some communicable diseases
- Complete medical file is reviewed and finalized by immigration health officials
Final processing is completed and the visa is issued by Canadian officials.
Transportation
- Officials from the International Organization for Migration secure exit permits from host governments and finalize all remaining paperwork for the flight to Canada.
- Refugees prepare and pack for their flight.
Canadian officials complete final security screening.
Refugees go through airport security screening and begin their journey to Canada.
Welcome!
- Syrian refugees arrive in Canada and become permanent residents upon arrival.
- Privately sponsored refugees are supported, by their sponsors, who help them adjust to life in Canada
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