IRCC has declared support for Moroccan nationals in response to the earthquake which happened on September 8.
IRCC says that it has been processing temporary as well as permanent residence applications for people affected by the earthquake. This includes visitor visa applications of immediate family members of permanent residents & Canadian citizens, along with existing applications for refugee resettlement.
In addition, Moroccan nationals in Canada can apply for an extension of their temporary status free of charge. This is done so they can study, work, & visit their families easily.
These measures are for Moroccan nationals who were in Canada as of September 8, when the earthquake occurred. Moreover, IRCC states that it will make it easier for Moroccan nationals to extend their temporary status in the nation.
The measures are the same as earthquakes which took place in Syria and Turkey. Also, humanitarian initiatives for individuals affected by the earthquake haven’t been declared as of now.
Passport Requirement Is Waived For PR Visa
IRCC has declared support for Moroccan nationals. In addition, the department will be waiving the requirement in order to hold travel documents and passports to be approved for PR visa. This measure is specifically for Moroccan nationals who have lost their documents after the earthquake.
Furthermore, Canadian citizens as well as permanent inhabitants from Morocco who have returned to the nation will benefit as the immigration department will be waiving fees for temporary passports, emergency travel documents, & limited-validity passports.
Thus, all measures taken by IRCC will be effective from October 19 this year.
Canada’s Response
IRCC has declared support for Moroccan nationals & has stated that these measures are a part of Canada’s response to the situation. Other government initiatives have also taken place. For instance, when the earthquake happened in September, the government declared that it would work with the International Red Cross & Red Crescent to raise funds to support humanitarian needs in the region. For 20 days, Canada’s government offered donations of up to $3 million.
As per the Census 2021, over 81,775 people in Canada reported Morocco as their place of birth. Out of this number, over 12,835 are considered recent migrants. Most Moroccans choose to settle in Montreal, Canada, a French-speaking city.
Shortly after the earthquake, the government pledged over $1.5 million toward relief efforts in Morocco.