Catanduanes Forum

Thursday, October 01, 2009
Special Immigration Measures for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines

Aside from the up to $5 million humanitarian assistance pledged for the victims of typhoon Ondoy, the Government of Canada announced special immigration measures for typhoon victims in the Philippines.

Government of Canada announces special immigration measures for typhoon victims in the Philippines

Ottawa, October 1, 2009 — Residents in the Philippines who are significantly affected by Typhoon Ketsana are being offered special measures to facilitate immigration to Canada, announced Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney.

“I would like to express my deepest sympathy and support for the people of the Philippines affected by this terrible disaster,” said Minister Kenney. “This government is moving quickly to reunite Canadians and permanent residents with their families by extending a welcome to those who wish to come to Canada.”

Effective immediately, Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s (CIC) visa office in the Philippines is responding on a priority basis for those directly affected by the disaster.

This will be applied to new and existing applications from Canadian citizens, permanent residents and protected persons who have close family members in the Philippines. They must, however, identify themselves as being directly and significantly affected by the current situation and notify CIC.[Source]

Please note that this applied to Family Class Sponsorship, Temporary Resident Visa and Caregiver program only. It does not apply to Federal Skilled Worker Program.