Canada announces new immigration procedures

The Canadian government said in a statement on Monday, April 24, that it intends to put in place new immigration procedures to support Sudanese temporary residency holders who are currently in Canada and may not be able to return to Sudan due to the war.

The Canadian government stated that once the new measures announced by Canadian Immigration Minister Sean Fraser enter into force, Sudanese citizens will be able to request an extension of their residency in Canada, which will allow them to continue studying, working or visiting their families in the country without any expenses.

The government added that it will give priority to reviewing already completed permanent and temporary residence applications on the immigration system for those still in Sudan, in order to facilitate procedures for them.

This includes visit visa applications for immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, she added.

Canada said it would also exempt Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are in Sudan and wish to leave Sudan from fees for a passport and a permanent resident travel document.

For reference, fighting broke out between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces on April 15, killing hundreds, stopping work in hospitals, interrupting other services, and turning residential neighborhoods into battlefields.