OTTAWA –  Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has started  accepting applications for permanent residence from refugee claimants who work in Canada’s health-care sector and provide direct care to patients.

A news release from IRCC notes that  last August, Immigragtion  Minister Marco Mendicino had announced the government’s intention to implement this special measure and that two temporary public policies have since been developed—one for refugees living in Canada outside Quebec, and the other for refugee claimants residing in Quebec. Under the Canada-Quebec Accord, Quebec has sole responsibility for the selection of economic immigrants and resettled refugees destined to the province

“We recognize the dedication of the many asylum seekers who have raised their hand to serve as we live through a unique and unprecedented situation. Canadians are appreciative of asylum seekers and the work they are doing during the pandemic. Thanks to this special measure, we are recognizing their significant contribution by providing them with a more secure future in Canada, ” said Mendicino

The release also notes that  further to the criteria to qualify announced in August, and in recognition that there may be refugee claimants who contracted COVID-19 and subsequently passed away, spouses and common-law partners of these individuals who are in Canada and arrived before August 14, 2020, may also be granted permanent residence under this public policy.

In addition, applicants’ internship experience (both paid and unpaid) will be considered, as long as it is an essential part of a post-secondary study program or vocational training program in one of the designated occupations. An internship performed as part of a professional order requirement in one of the designated occupations will also be considered.

 In-Canada family members of the principal applicant can be included on the application. All applicants will be required to meet existing admissibility requirements, including those related to criminality, security and health.

  Montreal