Global Courant
Amid what has been called Canada’s worst wildfire season of the century, the federal government is expanding free document replacement for those affected by the fires.
Immigration Secretary Sean Fraser announced in a press release Tuesday that the government will assist Canadian citizens, permanent residents and temporary residents who need to replace vital documents or renew or restore their status in Canada.
According to the press release, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will replace documents lost, damaged, destroyed or inaccessible as a result of the wildfires. This includes permanent residency cards, Canadian citizenship certificates, Canadian passports and other travel documents.
“These new measures will make it easier for Canadians, permanent residents and transient residents to replace lost documents,” Fraser said in a press release.
International students, temporary foreign workers and other visitors affected by wildfires whose status expires on September 30, 2023 are eligible to restore or renew their Canadian status free of charge.
“They will also ensure that transient residents are not unfairly punished and that they are there to help rebuild our communities,” Fraser added.
Temporary workers who are unable to work due to closed work locations can extend their status until their workplace reopens. International students can also extend their study permit if their classes are delayed or canceled in order to complete their studies without penalty.
These measures are in effect until September 30, 2023, IRCC says.
More than 47,000 square kilometers have burned so far this year, with 431 wildfires currently burning across multiple provinces in Canada.
With files from The Canadian Press
