Canada Acts on Wildfire Recovery
Last year’s record-breaking wildfire season put Canadians’ health, safety, and economic stability at risk. With climate change intensifying, extreme heat and drought will only worsen, increasing wildfire risks.
To support those affected, Minister Marc Miller announced special measures:
– Free replacement documents for Canadian citizens and permanent residents
– Open work permits for employer-specific work permit holders
– Status extensions for international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors
– Fee exemptions for foreign emergency services personnel
These measures, in effect until November 30, 2024, aim to alleviate the burden on individuals and families, allowing them to focus on recovery while addressing document replacement and temporary status issues. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting wildfire victims and assisting provinces and territories with emergency responses.
We remain steadfast in our efforts to support those affected by severe wildfires. Our measures will simplify the process for Canadians, permanent residents and temporary residents to replace lost documents. To the first responders and firefighters across the country, as well as the foreign emergency support personnel entering Canada to assist in the response, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your bravery and dedication in protecting our communities.
The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Highlights
Applicants for temporary resident status extensions and work permit renewals can rest assured they’ll maintain their status while awaiting processing, enabling continued work under their original permit conditions.
A special thank you to the 5,600 foreign emergency services personnel who joined Canada’s wildfire combat efforts in 2023, providing invaluable assistance in our time of need.
Contact us for more information.