e-4362 (Citizenship and immigration)

The Government of Canada remains committed to supporting Haitians during this difficult time.

When responding to international crises, the Government of Canada tailors its immigration measures to the unique conditions of each event and the needs of the affected population. Although every situation is different, we are always guided by the same values and principles. We evaluate how Canada can best help by looking at what solutions are most appropriate, including waiving fees or requirements, as well as whether existing immigration and refugee programs are sufficient or if new ones are required. We strive to balance our commitment to assist those in need, with upholding the security, safety, and well-being of Canadians.

Haitians who are already in Canada temporarily, who may feel uncomfortable returning to Haiti under the current circumstances, are able to apply under existing Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada pathways to extend their temporary residence status so that they may continue to study, work, or visit with loved ones in Canada.

Canadian immigration programs continue to be available for Haitians who qualify, including opportunities to reunite families through the family sponsorship program. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor for permanent residence their spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, dependent children, parents, grandparents, orphaned relatives under the age of 18, and other eligible relatives in limited circumstances.

Canada also offers temporary pathways, such as the parent and grandparent Super Visa, as well as temporary work and study opportunities. Applications for permanent and temporary residence from Haitian nationals continue to be processed in a timely manner.

Canada’s temporary worker programs are open to Haitian nationals and are demand-driven, meaning there are no limits on the number of work permits that can be issued to qualifying foreign nationals. Haitian nationals may apply for a work permit under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, if they have a job offer from an employer and are supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment from Employment and Social Development Canada, or under any stream of the International Mobility Program, as long as they meet eligibility criteria, which vary and may include occupational and skill-based criteria. For example, Haitian nationals whose mother tongue is French may be eligible to apply for a work permit under the Francophone Mobility stream of the International Mobility Program, if they are destined for a province or territory outside Quebec, and meet other eligibility requirements.

In addition to existing programs, Canada has committed to welcoming 15,000 persons  from the Western Hemisphere over the course of the year. This humanitarian pathway intends to provide an alternative to irregular migration for those facing forced displacement in Central and South American and Caribbean countries, which could include displaced Haitian nationals. This commitment was announced by the Prime Minister during U.S. President Biden’s visit on March 24, 2023. Further development of the humanitarian pathway is underway.

While we are not currently looking at introducing any other additional immigration measures at this time, we continue to monitor the situation closely.