Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Thousands of Gazans Face Delays in Canadian Visa Process

Gazans fleeing conflict remain stranded in Egypt due to slow visa processing and complex requirements.

Reem Alyazouri and her husband, Ashraf Alyazouri, who escaped Gaza and reached Toronto, pose for a photograph in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, September 30, 2024. They remain anxious for her parents, who, like thousands of Palestinians, are stuck in Egypt awaiting delayed Canadian visas under a temporary residence program plagued by bureaucratic issues.  REUTERS/Carlos Osorio
Image
Reem Alyazouri and her husband, Ashraf Alyazouri, who escaped Gaza and reached Toronto, pose for a photograph in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, September 30, 2024. They remain anxious for her parents, who, like thousands of Palestinians, are stuck in Egypt awaiting delayed Canadian visas under a temporary residence program plagued by bureaucratic issues.  REUTERS/Carlos Osorio
Reem Alyazouri and her husband, Ashraf Alyazouri, who escaped Gaza and reached Toronto, pose for a photograph in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, September 30, 2024. They remain anxious for her parents, who, like thousands of Palestinians, are stuck in Egypt awaiting delayed Canadian visas under a temporary residence program plagued by bureaucratic issues.  REUTERS/Carlos Osorio

Overview

  • Canada's temporary residence program for Gazans has been slow, with only 698 applications approved out of over 4,200 submitted.
  • Despite a pledge to welcome 5,000 Gazans, only just over 300 have arrived in Canada so far.
  • Applicants, including those who have submitted biometric information, face lengthy waits and uncertainty in Egypt.
  • Canada's visa requirements for Gazans are reportedly more stringent compared to other groups, contributing to delays.
  • Many Gazans in Egypt lack access to work, healthcare, and basic services, living in limbo as they await visa approvals.