Details of how Quebec will receive applications for its collective sponsorship program for refugees abroad have been published by the immigration department.
In an update on March 18, the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI) said an application window for 750 spaces would open between April 6 and May 5 2021.
Only groups of two to five potential sponsors who are Quebec citizens or permanent residents can submit an application, as per a decision published in the Gazette officielle du Québec on November 1, 2020. Applications from organizations are currently suspended until November 1, 2021.
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For the first time, applications must be received online through MIFI’s Arrima platform.
Should the number of applications received exceed 750, MIFI plans to conduct a random draw to select which applications will proceed.
Each sponsorship group can send a maximum of two applications when the window opens. Also, a Quebec citizen or permanent resident cannot be part of more than one sponsorship group.
Under the program, sponsors must provide for the basic needs of the candidate and their family for 12 months.
Responsibilities include providing for:
- The costs of getting settled in Quebec, including housing, furnishings, travel, food and clothing.
- Expenses for health care, health services and drugs not covered or reimbursed by a public insurance plan.
- Costs related to helping the candidate enter the job market or look for a job and that are not covered by a government program.
The sponsor must also offer the candidate and their family help with integration, including:
- Assistance in finding a job.
- Help with school registration.
- Support in accessing public services.
- Support for participation in community life.
To qualify, the candidate must be a convention refugee or a member of the Country of Asylum Class.