government-assisted-refugees🇨🇦 Canada
Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR): Complete Guide
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Government-Assisted Refugees (GAR)
Government-Assisted Refugees are refugees identified by the UNHCR and referred to Canada for resettlement. The Canadian government provides full financial and settlement support for their first year.
How It Works
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. UNHCR referral | UNHCR identifies refugees in need of resettlement |
| 2. Canada reviews | IRCC assesses eligibility, medical, security |
| 3. Approval | Visa issued for travel to Canada |
| 4. Arrival | Refugees arrive at their designated city |
| 5. Settlement | 12 months of government support |
Government Support
| Support | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Income support | 12 months | Monthly payments for basic needs |
| Housing | Temporary + permanent | Help finding and paying for housing |
| Language training | As needed | Free English/French classes |
| Health coverage | Immediate | Interim Federal Health Program |
| Settlement services | Ongoing | Orientation, employment, community connections |
| Airport reception | Arrival day | Met at airport by resettlement organization |
Eligibility
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Referral | Must be referred by UNHCR (or in rare cases, a referral organization) |
| Outside Canada | Must be outside their home country |
| No other solution | Cannot return home or integrate locally |
| Admissibility | Must pass medical and security checks |
Settlement in Canada
GARs are settled across Canada by Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) service providers:
| City | RAP Provider |
|---|---|
| Toronto | COSTI, Catholic Crosscultural Services |
| Vancouver | ISSofBC, MOSAIC |
| Montreal | Various Quebec organizations |
| Calgary | Centre for Newcomers |
| Ottawa | Catholic Centre for Immigrants |
Processing Times
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| UNHCR to Canada referral | Varies |
| IRCC processing | 12–36 months |
| Medical/security | 2–6 months |
| Total | 1–3 years |
Tips
- You cannot apply directly — GARs are referred by UNHCR
- Support lasts 12 months — plan for self-sufficiency after that
- Language training is critical — start as soon as you arrive
- Employment services are free — many organizations help with job search
- PR status on arrival — GARs arrive as permanent residents
- Family reunification — can sponsor family members after becoming established
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Complete our smart assessment form to check your eligibility for over 80+ Canadian immigration programs.
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