Canada is a country that offers protection to asylum seekers, and there is a range of support services available to help these individuals navigate the asylum process and integrate into Canadian society.
Asylum seekers have fled their home countries and sought protection in another country due to a well-founded fear of persecution, violence, or other human rights abuses.
This article will explore the various forms of support available for asylum seekers in Canada.
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What Support Is Available For Asylum Seekers
There are various supports available for asylum in Canada like legal support, shelter and housing, healthcare, education, employment, and others which we will outline below.
Support Available For Asylum Seekers in Canada
The following is the support available for Asylum seekers in Canada:
1. Legal Services
Asylum seekers in Canada have the right to seek legal representation to help them with their asylum claims.
There are many organizations and lawyers in Canada who specialize in immigration and refugee law and who can provide legal advice and representation to asylum seekers.
These organizations may be able to provide information, advice, or representation on a range of legal issues, such as immigration law, employment law, tenant rights, or family law.
2. Shelter and Housing
Asylum seekers in Canada are entitled to basic needs like shelter and food while their asylum claims are being processed.
The federal government provides temporary housing and basic living expenses to asylum seekers through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). The IFHP covers the cost of temporary accommodation, meals, and necessities such as clothing and toiletries.
Asylum seekers who are not eligible for the IFHP may be able to access housing and other support through provincial or territorial social assistance programs. In some cases, asylum seekers may also be able to find temporary housing with friends or family members or through community organizations or shelters.
3. Health Care
Asylum seekers in Canada are entitled to basic health care services while their claims are processed.
The federal government provides temporary health coverage to asylum seekers through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). The IFHP covers the cost of essential healthcare services such as hospital and physician care, medications, and other necessary health-related items.
Asylum seekers who are not eligible for the IFHP may be able to access health care services through provincial or territorial health insurance plans or private insurance. Some healthcare services may also be available through community health clinics or non-profit organizations.
4. Education
Asylum seekers in Canada have the right to education, and support services are available to help these individuals succeed in school.
Asylum seekers under 18 are entitled to attend public school in Canada and may be eligible for additional support such as language training and academic tutoring.
5. Employment
Asylum seekers in Canada are generally allowed to work while their claims are being processed, and a range of support services are available to help these individuals find employment.
They are eligible for the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) and may be eligible for employment assistance through the government’s Settlement Program. This program provides information, resources, and support to help newcomers find work in Canada.
Asylum seekers who are not eligible for the IFHP may be able to access employment services through community organizations, job training programs, or private employment agencies.
Some asylum seekers may also find work through networking and community connections.
6. Community Support
Asylum seekers in Canada can find support and resources through community organizations, faith-based groups, and other non-profit organizations.
These groups may offer a range of services and programs that can help asylum seekers feel connected to their communities, including language training, employment assistance, and social and cultural activities.
7. Temporary Resident Permits
If you seek asylum in Canada and do not have a valid visa or another immigration document, you may be eligible for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP).
A TRP is a document that allows you to remain in Canada temporarily and can be issued for various reasons, including humanitarian and compassionate grounds.
You can apply for a TRP at a Canadian port of entry or a Canadian embassy or consulate abroad.
8. Refugee Protection Claim
If you are seeking asylum in Canada, you may be eligible to make a refugee protection claim. This process allows you to request refugee status in Canada based on your fear of persecution, conflict, or other human rights abuses in your home country.
To make a refugee protection claim, you must complete some forms and attend an interview with an immigration officer.
You will be eligible for several support services and benefits, including healthcare coverage, employment, and financial assistance.
9. Government-Assisted Refugee Program
If you are a Convention refugee or a person in need of protection, you may be eligible for the Government-Assisted Refugee (GAR) program.
This program provides financial and other support to refugees who cannot support themselves and are sponsored by the government.
As a GAR, you may be eligible for income support, social services, and benefits like healthcare coverage and housing assistance. You may also be eligible for language training and employment assistance to help you integrate into Canadian society.
10. Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program
As a Convention refugee or person in need of protection, you may be eligible for the Private Sponsorship of Refugees program.
This program allows individuals, families, or organizations to sponsor refugees to Canada. As a sponsored refugee, you may be eligible for financial and other support from your sponsors and the government.
Sponsorship can provide a valuable source of support and connection for refugees and can help you integrate into Canadian society.
Conclusion
In addition to the support services and programs described above, several other organizations and resources support asylum seekers in Canada.
These may include community organizations and faith-based, cultural, and advocacy groups.
These organizations may offer programs and activities that help asylum seekers feel connected to their communities.