Better Support for Foreign Nationals Facing Human Trafficking and Family Violence in Canada

Ottawa, February 4, 2025—Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is dedicated to protecting victims of human trafficking and family violence. This includes regularly reviewing measures for vulnerable foreign nationals in Canada to identify and remove barriers that may prevent them from accessing support.

Effective today, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is improving measures for foreign national victims of human trafficking and family violence. Victims and their dependants in Canada may now receive an initial temporary resident permit (TRP) for at least 12 months, with some exceptions. Additionally, fees for subsequent TRPs, work permits, study permits and biometrics will now be waived.

Since 2006, out-of-status foreign nationals in Canada who are victims of human trafficking have been able to apply for a special TRP (VTIP TRP) for free. This permit gives them temporary immigration status, allows them to apply to work or go to school, and gives them health care coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program.

In 2019, the government introduced a TRP for victims of family violence. This has made it easier for victims to escape their abuser or trafficker without fear of jeopardizing their immigration situation in Canada.

The impacts of human trafficking and family violence have far‑reaching repercussions for victims, their families and our communities. These expanded measures will remove more obstacles that may prevent victims from getting support, stabilizing their lives, and accessing the resources and services they need.